About YSC
Young Scientists Camp is a two-week program at California State University Long Beach (CSULB) for 2nd-9th grade students.
Since the year 2000, more than 4,200 campers have spent time with us learning science and learning to think like a scientist. The budding scientists engage in hands-on science investigations, meet CSULB scientists, and take field trips on campus while working in the college's science laboratories.
Our teaching staff includes area teachers and CSULB future teachers who work together to provide your kids with a great, hands-on science enrichment experience. We know that science and science related fields open doors for the future. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will create a safe and enjoyable learning environment for your child.
We make science fun! Young Scientists Camp is a memorable experience that your child will never forget.
Reviews from Campers and Parents
My son loved the Young Scientists Camp! He's always had a love for and curiosity about science, and this camp was a sweet spot for him. The many Cool Chemistry experiments were his favorite activities. He already asked if he could attend next summer, so I already have a 2026 reminder on my calendar to look for when to register. Thank you for such an awesome program for my awesome kid!
- Parent of a 4th grader
This was my child's second year at YSC and he was always so eager to attend each day. He learned so much in the 5th grade class and did so many cool activities (like dissection!) that he couldn’t wait to tell us about each day. He really enjoyed doing experiments and getting to know other camp participants. We hope to be back next summer!
- Parent of a 5th grader
As a parent I love how hands on the topics are allowing them to create and explore through experiments. It's a great opportunity for young kids to grow a love for the sciences.
- Parent of a 5th & 7th grader
Campers and parents from previous years had this to say about their experiences at Young Scientists Camp."My child LOVED her time at the YSC. She learned about habitats through fun activities and crafts, was inspired to learn more through campus field trips to the shark and marine labs, and made new friends who share her passion for science. The camp is taught by real elementary school teachers, with multiple college students to help each class. Everything is very well-organized, and the communication is great. We'll be back again next year!"
- Parent of a 2nd grade camper
"YSC has been such a wonderful experience for my son! He has learned so much over the past 3 summers. He gets to collaborate with other students, work hands on with STEM activities, learns many new concepts and all is based on NGSS. As an upper elementary school teacher myself, and as a parent, I know he is being prepared for the future all while meeting new friends and having a blast!"
- Parent of a 4th grade camper
"My child really enjoyed YSC and looked forward to what he would learn each day. He was brimming with excitement and eager to share what he did in class daily. The program was so well-organized and my child is already hoping to attend next summer!"
- Parent of a 4th grade camper
"My daughter had an amazing time at YSC- she is looking forward to next year and so am I. You guys did an amazing job from the drop off to the pick up to the daily activities and field trips - my daughter had daily stories to share with me every single day - you are total rock stars. Thank you for your hard work and your dedication to all these kids."
- Parent of a 5th grade camper
"I am a parent of a 5th grader and she LOVED this camp. We've never done a camp where she didn't want it to end. The staff was great and the content was super engaging. I am so happy to say my daughter is now excited about science. Thank you YSC!"
- Parent of a 5th grade camper
"This is a wonderful opportunity for students to be enriched by science education on a college campus."
- Parent of a 7th grade camper
"My daughter was more confident about physics in her high school physics classroom. She became a leader in her class, helping other students understand complex topics that were covered in camp."
- Parent of a HS Physics camper
SEE US Succeed!
We also host SEE US Succeed!, a summer science camp program for Long Beach Unified students experiencing homelessness. Please consider making a donation to support campers for that program. You can give directly or include an extra gift when you register for camp.
All students, regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin, who are interested in Young Scientists Camp, are welcome.
