Questions? Answers!

What is Sierra Friends Camp like?

Sierra Friends Camp is a truly magical place! Each summer we have a nice mixture of campers who have never gone away to camp before and campers who have been coming to SFC for years! SFC is a place where you can be your true self while playing games, making art, swimming, playing sports, reading, hiking, making movies, and more!

Where is camp?

Sierra Friends Camp and Woolman Teen Leadership Camp is located at Sierra Friends Center near Nevada City, California. The campus includes 230 wooded acres nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Mountains. The facilities include cabins, a dining hall, meetinghouse, playing fields, arts and crafts buildings, a creek, a nearby pond and walking trails. Nearby attractions include the Tahoe National Forest and the Yuba River.

Do I have to be a Quaker to come to camp?

No way! Lots of people at camp, including the staff, are not Quaker. Each camp day includes 20 minutes of quiet reflection, which some people with Quaker, Buddhist or other spiritual practices use to meditate or seek inner guidance. And other people just sit and enjoy being in such a beautiful place.

What does it mean to be a Quaker camp?

Quakers value equality, integrity, community, and environmental stewardship. What makes us a Quaker camp is the way we respect nature, teach peace, and listen to everybody.

Why do we wash our own dishes at camp?

Because we're the ones that got them dirty, silly! Cleaning up at camp is the most fun you'll ever have washing dishes: we sing, splash, tell jokes, wear bubbles on our heads, and everybody works together as a team. Oh, and the dishes get clean too.

Who are the counselors?

Our counselors come from all over the country. They are fun, energetic, responsible, and most of all LOVE camp!  Our staff is made up of incredibly talented people who have skill, experience and training in outdoor leadership, first-aid, lifeguarding, group building, and conflict resolution, as well as many talents to share: art, music, nature skills, drama, athletics, and more. Every person on staff is committed to giving campers the most positive, safe, fun, and growthful experience they can have this summer.

What’s the food like?

We've got the best camp food in the world (no joke)! Everything is homemade, fresh, full of flavor, and with lots of choices. At every meal you'll find something familiar that you love, and something new and tasty to try. Favorite meals include: quesadillas, pizza, burritos, rice dishes, lasagna, soups, and homemade breads.

Where do I swim?

Each session we take at least one trip to the gorgeous Yuba River! The Yuba is only a few minutes away from camp and we spend the whole day swimming, splashing, and jumping off rocks. Don’t like swimming? There are beautiful sunny rocks to lounge on and nice beaches to sit and hang out with friends. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

Where will I live?

Each camper lives in a beautiful, rustic cabin that comfortably sleeps up to 5 campers and 1 counselor. The cabins have electricity, real doors and windows, and stay pretty cool throughout the summer.

Do I have many choices?

Sierra Friends Camp is all about choices!  Each day there are certain periods where you get to choose what activity to take part in.  We understand that some days you want to make a collage and other days you would rather play kickball so we make sure there are always options! Check out the daily schedule to learn more.

What should I pack?

For a complete packing list. Don't forget your toothbrush!

Can I bring a cell phone or electronics?

We ask that you don’t bring phones, ipods, or any other electronics with you to camp (cameras are OK if they are not also phones or music players). You'll be having so much fun you won't even miss them! Don’t worry, we've got phones here so your folks can reach you if they really need to.

Can I get mail or care packages?

Yes! And getting mail is one of the best parts of camp! The address is:
Your Name
Sierra Friends Camp
13075 Woolman Ln.
Nevada City, CA 95959
Tell all your family and friends!

What are the trips like?

Fun! Wild! Beautiful! At Sierra Friends Camp, everybody gets to go on one of these adventures each week. To learn more about what the trips are like visit our trips section.

What if I get homesick?

Most of the time people are having too much fun at camp to get homesick, but every once in a while someone just feels sad about missing their family. We know how to help. Your counselors and friends will give you lots of support, and we'll be in touch with your parents to make sure you get everything you need.

What if I have allergies?

We are able to accommodate lots of needs, but please let us know before you come!

More Questions?

Got more questions? Ask away, and we'll add them to this list.