SUMMER CAMPS
FAITH-FILLED FUN IN THE REDWOODS SINCE 1948
CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE
OVERNIGHT
SUMMER CAMPS
GRADES K-12TH
Hosted among the towering redwoods of Santa Cruz, our on-site camps offer the classic Mt. Cross camp experience. Campers enjoy a week filled with adventure and community, including a full day of hiking in the forest and a full day of fun at the beach. With faith-centered programming, campfires, worship, and new friendships—it’s everything summer camp should be!
2026 Summer Theme
"Wear Love"
This summer, campers will explore what it means to “wear love”—the all-purpose garment God gives each of us (Colossians 3:12–14). Rooted in God’s love, we’ll learn how compassion, kindness, humility, patience, and forgiveness shape our relationships and daily lives. Through stories, activities, and community, campers will discover how God’s love strengthens us, connects us, and empowers us to share love boldly in the world.
Why Mt. Cross?
Sending a child to a Mt. Cross program means giving them a place where they can breathe, be themselves, and be surrounded by people who genuinely care about their well-being. Studies from the American Camp Association and Sacred Playgrounds show that time spent outdoors, unplugged from technology, helps young people build confidence, resilience, and healthy friendships. At camp, they discover that they are loved by God and supported by a community that celebrates who they are. We create a safe space where children can grow in faith, learn new skills, and feel a sense of belonging that follows them home. Through laughter, adventure, and worship, campers experience joy and purpose that stays with them long after the week is over. We are here to help them thrive, and we are honored to be part of their journey.
Mt. Cross is my favorite place because I can just be myself and not worry about fitting in. I made some of my best friends here and we always cheer each other on. I love beach day, hiking, and worship at the campfire because it feels like God is right there with us. The counselors are super fun and help me feel more confident trying new things. I go home feeling closer to God and already counting down the days until next summer. Mt. Cross is the best!!!
Caden
Camper
I have seen Mt. Cross transform the spiritual lives of the youth in our congregation. They return from camp energized by faith and connected to a caring community that continues to support them. The staff lead with compassion, joy, and authentic Christian witness in everything they do. Camp gives young people the chance to reflect on God’s presence in nature and in their relationships. I am grateful for a ministry that nurtures lifelong disciples and strengthens the partnership between camp and church.
Rev. Kevin
ELCA Pastor
We trust Mt. Cross because it provides a safe, welcoming environment where our child can grow. They come home with meaningful stories about faith, new friendships, and discoveries about themselves. We see real changes like more confidence, more gratitude, and a deeper understanding of God’s love. The break from screens helps them reconnect with nature and be fully present in every moment. We are grateful for a place that cares for the whole child and supports them in becoming the person God created them to be.
Melissa
Camper Parent
Discover the variety of outdoor adventures, classic camp favorites, and faith-centered programs that fill each day with excitement.
Get a closer look at cabins, dorms, dining spaces, gathering areas, and all the places where memories are made in the redwoods.
We believe every child should have the chance to experience camp. See how our tiered pricing model makes Mt. Cross more accessible for all families.