At RYLA you’ll learn a lot about leadership and teamwork over five days at camp. It’s a chance to develop your skills, gain more confidence, and grow as a person. RYLA is a safe space where you’ll make a ton of new friends. Many students say RYLA is one of the best weeks of their lives!

RYLA is FREE, thanks to the support of local Rotary Clubs and individual donors. Bus transportation is provided to-and-from the campsite located outside of Santa Cruz, CA.

Discover the RYLA Experience and Camper Eligibility and Responsibilities.


The RYLA Experience

At camp you’ll learn about leadership styles and the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership. In groups of ten, you’ll participate in team-building challenges and group reflections on your experience. You’ll also prepare a skit for the final night campfire, a fun way to show what you’ve learned at camp.

→ The RYLA program also includes personal development workshops, recreational and social activities, and nightly campfires.

→ Students sleep in gender-based cabins with bunk beds (not tents). Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all-you-can-eat buffets in the cafeteria that caters to all dietary needs.

→ Your team will have two facilitators to guide you through your camp experience. You’ll also be supported by RYLA alumni, two nurses, a wellness coach, and administrative staff. All RYLA staff are volunteers who want to make a difference in your life!



Camper Eligibility and Responsibilities

Eligibility

  • A current high school freshman, sophomore, or junior in 2025-2026. Current 8th grade and seniors are not eligible.

  • Living or studying in San Francisco, San Mateo, or Marin counties. Students within this age group outside of these counties may apply if a parent/grandparent is a member of a Rotary Club in San Francisco, San Mateo, or Marin.

  • Able to commit to ALL five days and four nights at camp from Saturday, August 1 to Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

  • Be able to devote your focus to RYLA. There won’t be much free time for assignments or external meetings.

  • Students from all backgrounds are welcome! Each year RYLA has up to 150 students from 50 schools across our three counties.

Responsibilities

  • Come with an open mind, a willingness to try new things, and the drive to challenge yourself.

  • All levels of leadership are welcome, including none at all!

  • We do not recommend coming to RYLA if you will attend another camp or other enrichment activity this summer. RYLA has an intensive schedule that requires energy and mental focus.

  • Students can come to RYLA only ONCE as a camper. All former campers are invited to apply as an alumni or facilitator.