Sleepaway Camp on Catalina Island | Catalina Island Camps

Howlands Landing 1922

Unplug • Connect • Discover

Catalina Island Camps develops life-long skills through fun and unique outdoor experiences in a community that cultivates respect for self, others and the environment. At CIC, our programs are built around our mission and the unique marine and land environments of Howlands Landing.

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Summer Camp

We are a one and two-week co-ed sleepaway camp for children and teens 1st through 10th grade.

Summer Camp Dates

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kids kayaking off the coast of Catalina Island

Camper Leadership Programs

Programs for high school juniors and seniors to develop personal and group leadership skills

Jean-Michel Cousteau Family Camp

A camp adventure with Jean-Michel and his team from Ocean Futures Society

School Year Program

An experiential education program for school groups from 4th to 12th grade

Our Location

Howlands Landing is located at the west end of Santa Catalina Island, 22 miles west of Los Angeles, California.

Howlands Landing

Boat Departure

We’re proud to be family operated since 1995 by Tom and Maria Horner, which allows us to create a strong community here on the island.

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Tom and Maria Horner, owners of Catalina Island Camps

Tom & Maria Horner Executive Directors

Christine Honan Simpson General Manager CELP Director

Nick Horner Program Director

A person wearing glasses and a striped shirt stands outdoors by a palm tree and a building near the beach, evoking the laid-back vibe of summer camp on Catalina Island.

Eric Simpson General Manager Facility and Food Service

A person with long hair and a white jacket smiles outdoors amidst the lush greenery of a summer camp, with trees and a grassy field in the background.

Holly Kern CELP Registrar

News & Blog

Let Them Make Mistakes

There are moments where you just can’t help but be a parent When every instinct in your body screams “HELP THEM!” So...

Unpack What They Bring Back From Camp

Unpack What They Bring Back From Camp As summer days become memories and kids settle into the back to school...

Join us for Earth Day on April 18

Join Us for an Earth Day Celebration at Hahamongna Watershed Park! Saturday, April 18 • 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Hosted by...

Progressive Skill Development at Catalina Island Camps: The Badgework Program

At Catalina Island Camps, we know that parents want more than just a fun summer experience for their children—they want...

The CILT Hike: A Transformative Adventure

The CILT Hike: A Transformative Adventure For many teens in our Campers in Leadership Training (CILT) program, the...

stand-up paddleboarding in the Pacific Ocean

Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Catalina Island Camps: Building Confidence and Life Skills

Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Catalina Island Camps: Building Confidence and Life Skills At Catalina Island Camps, our...

Top 8 Ways to Prepare your Child for Sleepaway Camp

Top 8 Ways to Prepare your Child for Sleepaway Camp Preparing your child for their first summer sleepaway camp is key to...

Who is taking care of my kids at camp?

Who is taking care of my kids at camp All counselors and members of the leadership team at CIC share a common goal: to...

Should Siblings Go to the Same Summer Camp?

Catalina Island Sleepaway Camp with Siblings Whether siblings should attend the same summer sleepaway camp depends on...

Should My Child Go to Sleepaway Camp with a Friend?

Sleepaway Camp with a Friend This is a great question, and the answer really depends on what you want your child to gain...

girl pulling aiming her bow getting ready to shoot a target

Learning Archery

Archery Lessons on Catalina Island Learning archery at a summer sleepaway camp on Catalina Island offers kids an...

camper looking at the camera while stand up paddleboarding and other campers in the background

Learning How to Paddle board

Paddleboarding at Summer Camp Learning to stand-up paddleboard (SUP) at a sleepaway summer camp on Catalina Island is an...

Two campers being pulled in a tube by a powerboat

8 Tips for New Camp Counselors

Becoming a summer camp counselor is a fun and rewarding experience but comes with challenges Here are some helpful tips...

Do Parents Get Sad When Kids go to Camp

Sending Your Child to Summer Camp Many parents feel a mix of emotions when their kids go to camp While they may be excited...

What Kids Can Learn About Friendship at Summer Camp

Camp Friendship All kids can learn valuable lessons about friendship at summer camp, including: Inclusivity and...

6 Benefits of Summer Camp for Kid Development

Can Summer Camp Benefit Kids for Mindfulness and Awareness Summer camp offers a unique environment that fosters...

How Does A Parent Know When a Kid is Ready to go to Sleepaway Camp

At What Age Should I Send My Child to Sleepaway Camp Deciding when to send your child to sleepaway camp depends on several...

Are Kids Who Go to Summer Camp Happier the Rest of the Year?

The Benefits of Summer Camp in California While it's difficult to make sweeping generalizations about the happiness levels...

Navigating the Camp Conundrum: A Parent’s Journey from Camper to Caregiver

Sleepover Camp Summer camp is a sanctuary of adventure, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories For many of us who fondly...

Expanding Horizons: The Benefits of Exposing Kids to Different Opinions and Perspectives at Sleepaway Camp

Summer camps can be a melting pot of diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences Campers from all walks of life come...

Navigating Concerns: Sending Your Child to Camp Amidst Differing Perspectives

As a parent, it's natural to want the best for your child—to protect them, guide them, and instill in them the values and...

campers with their hands in the air at sunset

Navigating Parental Guilt: Finding Balance and Self-Care

Parenting is a rewarding yet demanding journey filled with love, joy, and countless sacrifices As parents, we strive to...

camper and counselor smiling after swimming

Unleashing Potential: The Transformative Power of Summer Camp for Adolescent Males

Summer camp on Catalina conjures up images of campfires, camaraderie, waterfront activities, and carefree days spent on the...

The Unbreakable Bonds of Camp: How Camp Friends Stand Apart

There's something magical about the friendships forged amidst the cabins, crackling campfires, and starlit nights of summer...

What Kids Who Go to Summer Camp Can Teach Their Parents

As parents, we often find ourselves in the role of teachers, guiding our children through life's lessons and imparting...

The Ultimate Adventure: Being a Summer Camp Counselor on Catalina Island

Nestled off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island offers a unique and unforgettable summer camp experience for...

campers kayaking through the Howlands Landing harbor

Benefits of Summer Camps with International Counselors

Sending kids to a camp that employs international counselors can be a great idea for several reasons, as it offers a unique...

Sleepaway Summer Camp Can Benefit Parents Too!

Sending kids to sleep-away summer camp can benefit parents in several ways Here are 9 that we find to be the most...

How Does Summer Camp Help Kids Recharge and Recenter?

Disconnecting from Screens Summer camp encourages a break from digital devices and screens This break from technology...

Catalina Island: The Perfect Summer Sleep-Away Camp Destination in Southern California

Summer sleep-away camps are a time-honored tradition for children and teenagers, offering a chance to disconnect from...

two girls climbing together on the climbing wall

Summer Camp Rock Climbing – A Great Confidence Booster

Rock climbing can be a great confidence booster for summer campers Here are some ways that rock climbing can help build...

counselors and campers posing for a photo with lifejackets on by the dock

10 Reasons to Become a Camp Counselor

10 reasons why you should work with us as a camp counselor: You get to be a role model When you interact with...

Lifelong Lessons Learned at Summer Camp

For those adults who went to sleepaway camp as kids, summer camp was a huge part of their childhoods They not only tried...

Summer Camp Counselor Skills Can Help You Get a Job

Helpful Summer Camp Counselor Skills Many employers are impressed with people who have experience as summer camp...

SoCal Summer Camp’s Biggest Benefits for Kids

With summer just around the corner, many parents recall their childhood summer days as carefree and full of joy Despite the...

Living in the Moment at Sleepaway Camp

Did you know that meaningful learning takes place at summer camp There may be no books, no homework, no studying, and no...

To Go to Camp Alone or With a Friend?

That is the Eternal Question… Camp counselors and seasoned camp families know that summer camp is very much about...

Learn about Catalina Island at L.A. Camp Fair 2022!

Sunday, March 13 at UCLA LA Camp Fair Details The LA Camp Fair 2022 at UCLA is Los Angeles' largest summer camp...

First Time Campers: A Guide to Summer Camp

The popularity of summer camp is soaring, with estimated attendance as high as 14 million campers each year The good news...

Attending Sleepaway Camp with a Friend

Going with a Friend to Camp For some kids, going to sleepaway camp for the first time can be intimidating And for many...

5 Reasons Why Your Child Should Learn to Swim

Safety in the Water Playing around in the water is a big responsibility, and kids who learn to swim also learn how to stay...

At What Age Are Kids Ready for Sleepaway Camp?

When your kid turns to you and begs to go to sleepaway camp, you know it’s time! Maybe your child saw an ad or heard...

What Skills Do I Need to be a Summer Camp Counselor?

Getting a Summer Camp Job Through tremendous dedication and hard work, summer camp counselors are the ones who plan and...

Benefits of Attending Summer Camp in California

Summer Camps in California boasts year-round great weather One of the great benefits of attending summer camp in...

Summer Camp Goals Journal

Coed Sleepaway Camps in California Summers at coed sleepaway camps in California are loaded with summer “bucket list”...

Summer Camp Crafts We’re All Nostalgic About

Summer Camp Crafts Crafts are a huge part of kids’ summer camp in Southern California! School and daily life are often...

Things Campers Really Need for Overnight Camp

Ready to start shopping for overnight camp Most residential summer camps provide detailed and specific packing lists of...

How to Spot the Best Summer Camps in Southern California

There are hundreds of camp opportunities for kids on the West Coast – so how do parents spot the best summer camps in...

The Best Summer Away Camps Have a Secret Perk for Parents

Up until now, you have probably thought about sending your kids to summer camp as a way to make their lives richer and...

Your Kid Needs Outdoor Summer Camp to Understand You and Others

Summer away camps are a unique experience for kids to make new friends, learn new skills, and become more confident and...

The 5 Friends Your Kid or Teen Makes at Summer Camp

Your kids will make many new friends when they attend a summer camp for California teens Summer camp friends are so...

aerial view overlooking camp from the water

How to Fight FOMO When Your Kid Attends a California Overnight Camp

As fantastic as California overnight Camps are, they can cause a very specific type of anxiety in some kids and teens: FOMO...

Where Can You Find The Best Summer Camp in Southern California

Finding the best summer camps in Southern California doesn’t have to be an overwhelming journey The best camp for your...

two campers smiling for a photo in green shirts with their towels and water bottles

10 Fun Letters to Send Your Camp Kid

Letters for Kids at Summer Overnight Camps in California Writing daily letters to kids at summer overnight camp can...

girls at summer camp doing arts and crafts

You’ve Got Mail from Your Camper!

Getting Your Daughter to Write from California Summer Camp How do you get your daughter to write to you when she’s...

Games to Bring to Sleepover Summer Camp

11 Classic Games That Need to Come to Sleepover Summer Camp in California Sleepover summer camps are not all fun and games...

Kids celebrating an announcement at lunch

The Kids That Need California Overnight Summer Camp the Most

What Kind of Kid is Yours The oldest child Can benefit greatly from a California overnight summer camp because camps...

campers seated on a tube being pulled by a boat

Sending Your Child to Sleepaway Camp? Here Are Some Good Books to Read

Summer Sleepaway Camp Books to Read Sending your kids off to a sleepaway camp in California this summer may seem like a...

When is it Time for Sleepaway Summer Camp in California?

When Should You Send Kids to Sleepaway Summer Camps It can be difficult deciding when your kid is old enough to go to...

boys in a line with their hands behind their back in a challenge activity

Perks of a California Adventure Camp

An Adventure Camp Can Help Your Kid Get into College Do you want your child to weather the college application process...

Archery For Kids at Summer Camp

Summer camp is a great way to introduce kids to new activities, introduce them to new sports, and to generally help them...

Benefits of Sending Your Kids to Overnight Camp in SoCal

There are many benefits of sending your child to an overnight camp in Southern California, but there are a few gems we hear...

Prepping Your Teen for a Digital Detox at Summer Camp

A fantastic and screen-free summer can be a reality for teens who attend summer camp for teenagers But you might want to...

Is Your Child Ready for a California Adventure Camp?

How do you know when your child is ready for adventure camp in California It would be incredibly convenient if there was a...

What to Do While Your Child is at Overnight Camp

It’s a question for the ages: What are parents supposed to do with all that free time when their kids head off to an...

What Skills Do I Need to Be a Camp Counselor?

Summer camp counselors possess a multitude of skills with real-world value A lot of the essential skills you gain as a camp...

summer campers and guide kayaking off the coast of Catalina Island

11 Tips to Prepare Anxious Kids for Summer Sleepaway Camp

Photos of smiling children engaged in sports, swimming, and just generally playing around with campers are the standard...

Making New Friends at Overnight Camp

Making new friends at overnight summer camp is one of the things kids most look forward to From overnight campouts to...

When Choosing a Summer Camp, Don’t Make These Mistakes

You decide to send your kid to sleepaway camp and of course, you want to make the best choice possible, right To help you...

When Do I Send My Child to Kids Summer Camp?

If only there were a simple one-size-fits-all answer to the question, “When do I send my kid to go camp” The reality...

Friendship Comes Naturally at Summer Camp

For a lot of people, the thought of going to a strange place where they don’t know anyone can be nerve-wracking Many...

3 Tips To Help Parents With Kids At Sleepaway Camp

Move over Homesick, Make Room for ‘Kidsick’ There is absolutely no way in the world your sweet little kid is ready for...

What Camp Counselors Wish Parents Knew About Overnight Camp

Many camp parents have experienced it, that “hold on a sec” moment of creeping self-doubt when you suddenly catch...

Tips to Prepare Your Child and Yourself for Sleepaway Camp

For kids, going to camp for the first time conjures a mix of nervous anticipation, excitement and a flickering sense of...

Finding Your Camp

We answer questions all the time from parents about summer camp In one way or another, all of the questions come down to...

How Summer Camp Helps with Social Development

Summer camp brings new opportunities for kids and teens! Building friendships, becoming more independent and diving into...

Why Kids Love Stand Up Paddleboarding

Swimming, kayaking and canoeing are certainly fun water activities, but there’s nothing quite like stand-up...

7 Tips to Finding the Right Sleepaway Camp

Looking for the right sleepaway camp for your child takes thorough research and patience If you’re currently searching...

Reasons to Consider Sending Your Kids to Sleepaway Camp

Sleepaway camp is an excellent way to get kids to unplug for the summer Taking time to unwind, get in touch with nature and...

What Do Kids Learn about Friendship at Summer Camp?

Summer camp is an important part of childhood development Whether it’s building confidence, engaging in new activities or...

How Do I Know If My Child Is Ready for Sleepaway Camp?

Sleepaway camp in Southern California is an experience like no other With the sun shining nearly every day of the year,...

How Does Summer Camp Encourage Outdoor Adventure?

Unplugging at Summer Camp Do you want your child to have more adventures in the great outdoors than in the virtual...

The Benefits Of Coloring

Coloring is fun, and it turns out it’s actually beneficial to your health Coloring is not just for...

top down aerial view of campers skindiving in clear blue water

Why Catalina is the Perfect Location for Snorkeling

Catalina has been a sought-after destination for families and individuals for years, and for good reason Filled with...

aerial drone shot of Howlands Landing and Catalina Island Camps

Howlands at Home

Camp is a special place built by special people, camp people Our staff embodies what it means to be camp people In this...

Exciting Summer Camp Activities for Kids of All Ages

Whether it’s your child’s first time at summer camp or they’ve been attending for many years, there’s something...

Important Tips To Prepare Your Child For Sleepaway Camp

After you’ve found a summer camp that’s right for your child, there are plenty of things you can do to prepare them...

Great Questions For Dinner Table Conversations

What did you do in school today Do you get blank stares or one-word answers when you ask your kids this question Here’s...

Summer Camp Makes Kids Capable and Independent

Sleepaway camp provides kids with opportunities to take on responsibilities and learn new skills on their own,...

How To Find The Best Sleepaway Camp For Your Child

You’ve decided to send your child to a sleepaway camp this summer How do you find the best camp for your camper...

3 Reasons Kids Thank You for Summer Camp

The opportunity to attend summer camp is awesome, but not all summer camps are created equal Summer camp by the ocean have...

Taking the First Step

Participating in a sleepaway camp can provide your child with cognitive thinking skills and can boost their confidence in...

Take a Tour of Catalina Island Camps: A Summer Camp in California

Take a Tour of Catalina Island Camps Summer Camp in California It can be hard to picture your kid away from...

Do You Speak Overnight Summer Camp?

Do You Speak Overnight Summer Camp Your kids are off to California overnight summer camp at Catalina Island Camps Their...

10 Essential Items for Summer Camp by the Ocean

What do you need to pack for summer camp by the ocean Here's our go-to list! Lots and lots of sunscreen The best...

5 Reasons Kids Thank You for Summer Camp on Catalina Island

You made the big decision to send your kids to Summer Camp on Catalina Island Congratulations! Choosing the right kids...

10 Amazing Ways Kids Benefit from Summer Camp by the Ocean

The opportunity to attend summer camp is awesome, but not all summer camps are created equal Summer camp by the ocean have...

Surprise! Overnight Summer Camp is Good for Parents Too!

Dozens of papers have written about the benefits of overnight summer camp for kids You’re probably looking forward to...

I Heart Camp Day

It's finally here, Happy I ❤️Camp Day! What is I Heart Camp Day As "Camp People", we are extremely passionate and...

The Power of Summer Camp

Did you know that camp has more of an impact on children than just as a fun escape for the summer Here’s a short video on...

From Camp to IKOS!

Mina is a Park City High School Senior She was a CIC camper for nine years, including two-weeks as a Camper in Leadership...

UNPLUG, CONNECT, DISCOVER

I’ve been thinking about my first years as a camper I first went to camp when I was seven I was a handful My energy...

What campers tell each other about the camp experience

Sunday night, we invited our older campers to stay after closing campfire to share about their CIC...

Summer Camp: Can it make kids more responsible?

Summer Camp Jobs for College Students: Can it Make Kids More Responsible Summer Camp: Can it make kids more...

Your Child’s First Sleep Away Camp?

Your Child's First Overnight Camp Your Child's First Sleep Away Camp The first time your child heads off for sleep-away...

Summer Camp Makes Kids Resilient

How Summer Camps Makes Kids Resilient Summer Camps Make Kids Resilient How can summer camp improve your child’s...

Catalina Foxes at Catalina Island Camp

Catalina Foxes at Catalina Island Camp! Catalina Island Fox Thrives after a Battle with Extinction Anyone who has visited...

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Unplug, Connect, Discover ☀️
Coed Sleepaway Camp for kids 1st-10th grade ⛵️

🎬🍿 YOU`RE INVITED TO THE CIC MOVIE PREMIERE!

We`re releasing our brand-new CIC summer video, and we want our campers and staff to be the first to see it!

See your camp friends on the big screen (okay, your computer screen 😉), reconnect with your counselors, and relive all the fun of summer at CIC!

🎟️ YOUR VIP TICKET
📅 Sunday, October 25
⏰ 4 PM Pacific
📍 Live Online Premiere
💙 Admission: FREE!

Check your inbox! You should have received an email with your exclusive link to join us. Didn`t get it? Email [email protected].

Grab your popcorn, find your favorite spot on the couch, and get ready for the premiere of the summer! 🎥

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We`re releasing our brand-new CIC summer video, and we want our campers and staff to be the first to see it!

See your camp friends on the big screen (okay, your computer screen 😉), reconnect with your counselors, and relive all the fun of summer at CIC!

🎟️ YOUR VIP TICKET
📅 Sunday, October 25
⏰ 4 PM Pacific
📍 Live Online Premiere
💙 Admission: FREE!

Check your inbox! You should have received an email with your exclusive link to join us. Didn`t get it? Email [email protected].

Grab your popcorn, find your favorite spot on the couch, and get ready for the premiere of the summer! 🎥

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We hope this week doesn`t have you feeling too tied up! 🪢

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Stop. Breathe. Step. Release! The satisfying *thunk* of a bullseye never gets old.

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So grateful for the helping hands and watchful eyes that keep our campers safe.

#campstaff

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Summer may feel far away, but the best prices are here now! ☀️ Lock in your camper’s spot for 2027 with Early Bird registration. #linkinbio

#summer2027 #summercamp #islandvibes #californiacamp #sleepawaycamp #overnightcamp

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#summer2027 #summercamp #islandvibes #californiacamp #sleepawaycamp #overnightcamp

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ON YOUR COUNSELOR’S FACE! ON YOUR COUNSELOR’S FACE!

#iykyk

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The friendships made at CIC deserve a souvenir. With a little string and a lot of patience, our campers weave their best memories into these colorful friendship bracelets!

#summercamp #campmemories #friendship

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#summercamp #campmemories #friendship