Summer in Nevada County isn’t just sunshine and ice cream (though we fully support both); it’s a playground of activities waiting to keep your kids entertained, learning, and making lifelong memories. Whether you have a little artist, an outdoor adventurer, or a future scientist on your hands, this guide will help you fill those long summer days with excitement and joy.
Summer Camps & Programs
Nevada City Parks & Recreation Day Camps
Located at Pioneer Park, these camps partner with local vendors to offer a wide range of activities. Registration opens May 1, 2025, with a Recreation Fair on May 3rd for parents to explore options.
Food Love Farm Summer Camp
For kids ages 6–11, this camp by Sierra Harvest dives into organic farming, hands-on cooking, and nature exploration. Sessions run late June through July, with small group sizes for a personalized experience.
Nevada County 4-H Summer Camp
From July 21–25, 2025, kids can enjoy crafts, sports, and campfire fun at Donner Mine Camp, guided by trained teen counselors and adult volunteers.
The Center for the Arts Camps
Let your child explore their inner artist through camps focused on visual arts, photography, rock band, aerial circus, and clay creations.
Camp Fire Golden Empire at Camp Gold Hollow
Nestled near Lake Vera, this camp offers both day and overnight options for ages 5–17, with swimming, archery, canoeing, and leadership activities.
Gold Country Kuk Sool Won Adventure Day Camp
For a mix of martial arts, outdoor skills, archery, crafts, and games, this three-day camp runs multiple sessions throughout summer.
Creative & Educational Adventures
The Artist Workshop
Drop-in art sessions and classes where kids can explore different mediums.
Check out their Facebook page for upcoming events
Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum
Educational exhibits and historic railbus rides to spark young imaginations.
Family-Friendly Events & Festivals
Nevada County Fair
(Aug 6–10, 2025)
Rides, games, exhibits, and live entertainment for the whole family.
Children’s Festival
(TBA July)
A medieval-themed wonderland of crafts, performances, and activities just for kids.
Hot Summer Nights in Nevada City
(July)
Evening street festivals packed with live music, vendors, and kid-friendly fun.
Movies Under the Pines – Nevada City Film Festival
(June 7)
A movie night under the stars at Pioneer Park.
Outdoor Escapes
Swimming Spots
Lakes – Scotts Flat, Englebright, Collins or Rollins
Public Pools – Pioneer Park or Memorial Park
River – Bridgeport or South Fork of the Yuba
Hiking Trails
Independence Trail
Deer Creek Tribute & Environs Trails
Hirschman’s Trail
Sugarloaf Mountain Trail
Enjoying Nevada County’s great outdoors? Let’s keep it beautiful for everyone:
Please remember to clean up after yourself and pack out what you pack in. Leave the glass at home (bottles and containers included), stay fire-safe, and report any unsafe behavior. And don’t forget — pets are welcome, but they must be leashed at all times for everyone’s safety. Thanks for doing your part to protect our shared spaces!
Mark Your Calendar
Don’t miss the Nevada County Recreation Fair on May 3, 2025!
It’s your one-stop shop to meet local recreation providers, explore summer programs, and plan an unforgettable summer for your kids.
For a list of certain camps and programs, check out ActivityHero’s Nevada City page where you can filter activities by age, interest, and schedule.
No more hearing “I’m bored!” every other hour this summer. With this guide, you’ll have summer fun planned out in no time, packed with laughter, learning, and new friendships.
You ready to dive in to the summer?
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