“Sun Camp has taught me how to have a strong back and an open heart. It has taught me leadership, assertiveness, so much gentleness, and kindness for the human beings around me. It wakes me up while simultaneously grounding me. ” Ara Davis
Every summer, something truly magical happens on a quiet field at Dechen Chöling. Children and teens from around the world gather for Shambhala Sun Camp, a unique outdoor sleep-away camp for children aged 10 to 16.
For one whole week, young campers step away from the fast-paced, digitally connected world to reconnect with the beauty of living in the present moment and explore their relationship with the natural world, entering a living, breathing community shaped by the values of basic goodness, courage, and connection.
Shambhala Sun Camp embodies a philosophy grounded in Shambhala Buddhist teachings, which are both straightforward and profound. At its core lies the belief in the inherent goodness within everyone.
Their mission is to create an environment of basic goodness and warriorship open to participants of any background. They do this by combining the power of living outdoors with the wisdom teachings from the Shambhala, Kasung, and Buddhist lineages.
During this week, a camp community is created in which every camper is encouraged to extend care and support, thereby fostering a nurturing environment where everyone looks out for one another.
At Sun Camp, there’s a mix of fun, physical activity, teamwork, and mindfulness. The intent is to provide young people with a space to be themselves, discover who they are, make friends, and build deep friendships in a supportive and playful environment.
They have three programs that blend together to create an immersive experience:
- Sun Camp, the week-long program for ages 10 to 16
- The Cadet Command Workshop (CCW), a leadership-intensive training for returning participants aged 14 to 16, commencing three days before camp and extending throughout Sun Camp
- And the Rites of Warriorship (ROW), a rite of passage program dedicated to 16-year-olds, spans the two days following camp.
Shambhala Sun Camp offers a safe, nurturing and open environment where young people can connect with their inner goodness. Free from religious or dogmatic pressure, at Sun Camp, they are encouraged to discover their authentic selves and grow into self-assured and empathetic adults.
To hear directly from the past participants about why they keep coming back year after year:
Shambhala Sun Camp – in Dechen Chöling from July 26 – August 2, 2025
For more information and register, click on this link : https://www.shambhalasuncamp.org/