Camp Surfbird 2026

02/27/2026 03:00 PM - 03/01/2026 03:00 PM PT

Admission

$150.00

Location

Summary

Camp Surfbird is a unique overnight camp designed especially for youth who share your love for birds. In partnership with San Diego Bird Alliance and the American Birding Association, we’ve crafted an extraordinary weekend of birding the over 200 species Southern California has to offer. Get ready to explore the birding hotspot of San Diego and make new friends along the way.

Description

Our base camp is nestled at the beautiful YMCA Camp Surf in Imperial Beach, CA, providing the perfect setting for your adventure.

- Learn from experts, hone your birding skills, and discover the incredible diversity of San Diego

- Delve into the fascinating natural history of this coastal paradise, from coastal wetlands to chaparral habitats

- Connect with young birders who share your passion, forming friendships that could last a lifetime.

- Learn about exciting career opportunities in ornithology, research, and conservation, and network with leaders in the field.

- Participate in exclusive festival activities and experiences designed specifically for Camp Surfbird attendees.

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and embark on an adventure that will leave you with cherished memories.

Feb 27th - March 1st, 2026

Ages 13-17 years

YMCA Camp Surf, Imperial Beach, CA

Full tuition is $750, which is invoiced in December 2025. Filling out this registration form reserves your place with a deposit of $150.

Includes all lodging, meals, field trip and boat fees, transportation during festival events, and shuttle service to and from San Diego International Airport. Base camp is located at the YMCA Camp Surf in Imperial Beach, CA. $150 non-refundable deposit due upon registration, remainder due by January 15th, 2026 (registrants will receive an invoice in December). Full scholarship receipients will receive a refund of the deposit.

For registration and more information, visit our website: https://www.sandiegobirdfestival.org/

For inquiries and scholarship information, contact us at camps@sandiegobirdalliance.org or sstallings@sandiegobirdalliance.org

IMPORTANT NOTE FOR PLANE TRAVELERS: Participants must be able to fly as an independent minor on an aircraft to be picked up and dropped off by the camp shuttle service. We cannot accommodate or make arrangements for “Unaccompanied Minors” that require a chaperone to and from the gate. All transportation must be booked and shared with camp coordinators by February 1 for arrival at San Diego International Airport the morning of February 27th.