Nestled deep in the Stanislaus National Forest at Pinecrest, California, you'll find the Lair of the Golden Bear, an unforgettable family summer vacation spot—owned and operated by the California Alumni Association since 1949.
A special home-away-from-home for Cal alumni, families and friends, this beautiful mountain retreat allows campers to unwind in the spectacular Sierra Nevada Mountains without worrying about cooking, cleaning, or what to do with the kids. The hardest decision campers face all week is which activity to try next!
A camp for everyone
Campers of all ages at the Lair enjoy organized activities, find adventure on their own, or just sit back and forget their cares. Guided nature hikes introduce campers to the plants and wildlife of the spectacular Sierra Nevada region. Campfire shows, sing-alongs, and lessons are all part of the music program, while tie-dye, t-shirt painting, and ceramics bring out the artistic spirit in everyone. Sports activities include softball, tennis, volleyball, basketball, ping-pong, horseshoes, paddle tennis, shuffleboard, and, of course, swimming. Boating, fishing, golf, and horseback riding are also available at nearby independent facilities (not included in camp fees).
Camp Blue, Gold, and Oski
In Camp Blue and Camp Gold, campers enjoy athletic tournaments all week long, striving for wonderful Lair trophies at the end of the week. In Camp Oski campers enjoy their smaller, more intimate camp and their tent circle campfires.
We offer a variety of camp programs tailored for a unique camping experience:
Family camping Week-long, mini-week, or get-away weekends
Campers live and sleep in rustic cabins made of a wooden platform and sides with a snug canvas top. Cabins have twin-size metal frame beds with mattresses (you bring your own bedding), an electric light, and an outlet. Modern toilet and shower buildings are conveniently located just steps from your door.
Great food
Even the heartiest appetites are satisfied with the plentiful, family-style meals served three times daily. Meals have an entree with a variety of vegetables, breads, and side dishes. Hikers and others can get a bag lunch to go. Continental breakfast is available for late risers, and the Burger Shack is open in the Lodge each evening. Extra snacks are available throughout the day at the Camp Store.
Outstanding staff
The Lair's outstanding staff is the heart and soul of camp life. Mostly current UC students, Lair staff members are positive role models for your children and great friends to the whole family. From supervising kids' activities to serving your meals, the staff contributes creativity, energy, and enthusiasm to every aspect of your vacation.
So many conveniences
Nurse practitioners and EMT's on call 24 hours/day for minor injuries and illnesses; major hospital facilities 30 miles away in Sonora
Weekly non-denominational creekside services, plus Catholic mass nearby
Camp Store selling shirts, caps, and sundries
Business Center offering fax service and modem hook-up
Coin-operated washers/dryers
Daily mail service
Pay phones
Limited wheelchair access (please call for details)
Sorry, pets are not allowed
The Lair is located in the Stanislaus National Forest under Special Use Permit from the U.S. Forest Service. We do not discriminate based on race, color, creed, sex, religion, age or nationality.