California Time Traveler Camp
Explore 150 years of the state’s history, arts and culture in the California Time Traveler Camp!
Session 1: June 22 – June 26, 2026
Session 2: July 6 – July 10, 2026
California Time Traveler Camp is now fully booked for summer 2026. If you’d like to join the waitlist, you can do so here for session 1 and here for session 2.
Ideal for young adventurers ages 6-11, the California Museum’s week-long day camp offers participants engaging learning experiences as they travel back in time to some of the state’s significant eras.
Campers will engage in a combination of exhibit tours, excursions to nearby historical sites and hands-on activities from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Daily itineraries begin on Monday over 150 years ago in pre-statehood California and end on Friday in the near future that California campers will create.
Choose from two sessions held Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm: June 22-26, 2026 & July 6-10, 2026.
Price per camper
- Non-member: $325 per time traveler (Total comes to $348.65 after Eventbrite processing fee)
- Museum member: 10% off per time traveler (Applied before Eventbrite processing fee)
How to Sign Up
To register your child for California Museum’s Time Traveler Camp, please complete these two steps:
1.
Submit payment at one of the links below:
2.
Complete the registration details online at the link below or download the packet here and complete it before emailing it to reservations@californiamuseum.org. Required to finalize registration.
For questions or assistance, contact the Museum’s education department at (916) 654-1729 or reservations@californiamuseum.org.
GET 10% OFF TIME TRAVELERS CAMP: California Museum members enjoy exclusive benefits, including 10% off Time Travelers Camp, per camper! Email membership@californiamuseum.org to get your discount code.
Not a member? Join today to unlock this discount, plus free and discounted admission to museum programs and events, and access to over 1,700 museums nationwide through our reciprocal membership network.
Frequently Asked Questions
The California Time Traveler camp is perfect for:
- Young adventurers ages 6-11
- History enthusiasts
- Curious question-askers
- Crafters and makers
- Kid foodies
Each day includes:
- A deep dive into a different exhibit at the California Museum with guided tours and immersive exhibit activities
- Themed crafts and activities, often featuring cultural experts and community members
- Local field trips to explore history and culture outside the Museum
- Exploration of Sacramento using various forms of transportation
- Activities throughout the day to promote learning and FUN
Day 1: Pre-Statehood & California Indians
Campers will explore the exhibit California Indians to discover what California looked like prior to becoming a state and the rich cultures within it. Campers will learn how California’s first people lived and tended to the land and learn how they continue to do so today. Campers will also discover the distinct attributes of our state that make California unique.
Day 2: Chinese Californians (1850s – 1860s)
Campers will explore our Gold Mountain exhibit and learn about Chinese Californians’ contributions to the early years of California as a state. Campers will focus on the different industries Chinese Californians helped establish, including agriculture, fishing, and their pivotal role in building the Transcontinental Railroad.
Day 3: Japanese Californians (1940s)
Campers will explore our Uprooted exhibit to learn how World War II impacted the Japanese American community. Campers will dive into the perseverance of the community and discover Japanese culture through food-related activities and crafts.
Day 4: – Activists (2010s)
Campers will explore two exhibits, Unity Center and Health Happens Here as a gateway to consider the small and big ways we can create positive change. Campers will explore themes of community solidarity, sustainability, and building a stronger future together.
Day 5: Present Day and Future
On our last day of camp, campers will explore three exhibits: Women Inspire, California Hall of Fame, and our upcoming temporary exhibit. Through thematic crafts and activities, campers will learn about prominent figures who have left their mark upon our state and about current issues affecting California. Campers will consider ways we can make a more fair and inclusive present and future for everyone.
Thanks to the support of community sponsors and donors, limited scholarships are available for campers whose families demonstrate financial need. To apply, please fill out and submit a scholarship application form. Scholarships will be reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis. The application will close when scholarship positions are filled.
A complete list of policies, recommendations, and health and safety protocols can be found in the camp registration packet.
Refund Policy: Cancellations made 30 days or more in advance of sessions refunded in full minus Eventbrite processing fee. Cancellations made 29 days or less in advance of sessions refunded half of the registration fee minus Eventbrite processing fee. To request a refund, email reservations@californiamuseum.org.
Health & Safety Protocols: For the protection of participants and staff, the California Museum will observe COVID-19 protocols such as limiting group size, prioritizing outdoor activities, practicing social distancing and maintaining good hygiene. For details, please see page two of the registration packet.
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