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North Valley Flare Team

Jun 12, 2026

10 Comments
Sand N' Straw Farm Summer Camps Now Open in Vista
Hands-on nature activities for kids ages 4-10 at this working six-acre regenerative farm in North County

Sand N' Straw Community Farm in Vista has opened registration for their popular summer camps, offering North County children ages 4-10 an immersive farm experience that combines education, outdoor play, and hands-on learning. The 4-day programs run Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM, with each week costing $300 per child. Register here.

 

Campers at Sand N' Straw participate in a variety of engaging activities designed to connect children with nature and food production. Each day includes gardening workshops where kids learn to plant, tend, and harvest crops from the farm's extensive gardens. The cooking classes teach children how to prepare simple, healthy meals using fresh ingredients they've helped grow. Science exploration sessions cover topics like composting, plant life cycles, and the important role pollinators play in our food system.

 

One of the highlights for many campers is the time spent with farm animals. Children interact with chickens, goats, and other livestock while learning about animal care, feeding routines, and the contributions animals make to a working farm ecosystem. These experiences help foster empathy and understanding of where our food comes from.

 

The six-acre regenerative farm operates on principles of sustainable agriculture, using composting, cover cropping, and natural pest management to maintain healthy soil and produce over 50 varieties of organic fruits and vegetables throughout the year. This approach not only yields nutritious produce but also serves as a living classroom for visitors of all ages.

 

Beyond summer camps, Sand N' Straw maintains an active community presence through their farm stand, open Wednesdays from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Shoppers can purchase freshly harvested produce, eggs, and other farm products while supporting local agriculture.

 

The farm's educational programming extends year-round with an 8-week semester designed for children ages 3-6, introducing young learners to farm life through age-appropriate activities and exploration. The Young Pioneers program serves children ages 3-9 with more in-depth agricultural education and skill-building opportunities.

 

Sand N' Straw also welcomes visitors for guided tours by reservation, offering groups a behind-the-scenes look at regenerative farming practices. For adults interested in growing their own food, the farm hosts periodic gardening workshops covering topics from starting seeds to preserving the harvest.

 

Summer camp registration is currently open through the Young Pioneers website. Sessions tend to fill quickly, so early registration is recommended for families hoping to secure a spot for their children this summer. Sign up today.

10 Comments

Join the conversation

  • SP
    Shawna P.· Jun 15, 5:24 PM

    We did the Young Pioneers semester last fall, super friendly staff and really hands-on. The animals are a hit with all the kids.

  • RJ
    Ryan J.· Jun 14, 6:19 PM

    Would love to see a similar program for teens or older kids. My son is 12 and wants to learn gardening but he’s too old for these camps.

  • RT
    Rosa Torres· Jun 14, 2:32 PM

    The farm stand is great too, not just for kids. Their strawberries are the best, I stop by every Saturday.

  • EC
    E. Chen· Jun 14, 1:09 AM

    I wish there were more open spots for younger age groups. Everything fills up so fast!

  • PR
    Pauline R.· Jun 13, 8:02 PM

    I'm glad they're teaching composting and real farm skills. Kids need to know where food comes from, not just grocery stores.

  • M
    maria_gardens· Jun 13, 6:48 AM

    Does anyone know if you get to take any veggies home from the camp? My daughter loves bringing home what she grows.

    • ET
      Elise T.· Jun 13, 9:00 PM

      maria_gardensMy son did the camp last summer and came home with a little basket of veggies he picked himself on the last day. Not sure if it's every session, but they definitely sent kids with some harvest!

  • TR
    Tommy Rivera· Jun 13, 6:09 AM

    My nephew attended last year and still talks about feeding the goats. Highly recommend if you can swing it!

  • BL
    Ben L.· Jun 13, 1:07 AM

    $300 seems kind of expensive for just a few mornings, but I bet the experience is worth it for some families.

  • JM
    Jennifer M.· Jun 12, 11:03 PM

    Wish they had something like this when my kids were little. Sounds like a good way to get them off screens for a bit.

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