Junior Guides Raft Camp is excited to offer scholarships for our 2025 season! Campers raft rivers, build lasting friendships, and learn water safety at our three-day 'day camp' for kids ages 6-16, on the South Fork, American River in Coloma, California.
Scholarships are unavailable for Ducks - kids aged 6-9. Parents may consider 'Lifeguarding' for a tuition discount.
Otters: Kids ages 10-16
Our 3-day, class III river rafting programs for beginners or experienced river runners include highly qualified guides, boats and gear, shuttles to and from put-in and take-out, two substantial daily snacks, a lunch buffet, evening activities, a private link to photos of camp, and a camp gift. On-water daytime rafting program runs from 9:00 AM to 5:30/ 6:00PM. Scholarships awarded include a partial tuition credit of $375 for Otters; the tuition cost is $525, so parents pay $150 for the experience.
Camping is optional, and camping and camp meals are not included in the scholarship. The family camping add-on is a popular tradition, and many families say this is their favorite part. While kids spend days on the river learning and playing, mentored by professional river guides, the rest of the family can pursue adult activities and friendships while still connecting with their child every morning and evening. After rafting, fun collaborative evening family activities like skit night, and a dance party begin at our idyllic base camp.
Ospreys: Kids with outdoor experience aged 15-18 One scholarship will also be available at the advanced Junior Guides family coop session called "Ospreys." This intensive camp will run 6+ days from June 21-27. This scholarship will offset a significant portion of the total program expenses (including camping, transportation, food, logistics, and rafting equipment - anticipated tuition of $1,400), reducing the family's contribution to just $500, regardless of the final cost of Osprey's camp.
Sample characteristics of a good scholarship applicant include, but are not limited to: A desire to develop leadership skills through river experiences and teamwork. Openness to personal growth and character development through new challenges. Enthusiasm for building confidence and resilience by navigating river environments. Willingness to explore rapidly moving cold water and dynamic swimming situations. Ability to get along well with others. An athletic foundation in sports like skiing, surfing, roller skating, or organized sports. While strong swimming is not a required skill, campers will be spending time floating and swimming in the river and should be comfortable with that.
Scholarship applications are open now, and will close on April 30, or until scholarship dollars run out.
Thank you again for applying. Hope to see your application submitted soon!