My son just got back from his second year at Intermediate camp and even when he was there, was already counting the days until next year's camp. Musically he came back more improved but also just happy. The counselors were beloved by the campers and the director Larke is beyond helpful and supportive. They practice, at this level, 4.5 hours a day and also have chores (kitchen, bathroom) as well as recreation and resting time. It's in the mountains so don't pack nice clothing - my son came home with pants with holes in them and were so filthy they could literally stand up on their own. It's a rustic setting. There is nothing fancy-shmancy at all. Shower sandals, towel, fitted twin sheet, sleeping bag are I feel must-haves. My son could have used a small plastic grocery bag/waterproof bag to keep his clothes in when he showered as kids dress in the shower I guess because they are self-conscious. I suggest putting at least $50 in their camp account because they all appear to eat ice cream everyday and It looks like they cost between $2-$4 each, plus $15 for a shirt and $12 for a water bottle for instance... my son blew through his money (he had $60) easily. We sent him with lots of snacks (Pringle's, cookies, pop tarts...) that they store for them and the kids have regular access to in case you have a snacker like I do. He also made great friendships with good kids. Band kids surrounded by only other band kids -right-brained, artistic kids will feel safe and accepted. Highly recommend!! read more

This camp is wonderful! All of my kids have gone and we love it! They even have a beautiful performance at the end to showcase their talents! read more

I camped here as a young musician. My kid camped here as a young musician. We both agree that Arrowbear is an amazing experience and made lifelong friends here. Best music camp anywhere! read more

Amazing place for kiddos to learn music and enjoy their summers! Staff is amazing and my daughter will returning each year! The value for 2 weeks is amazing in my opinion! read more

Truly a magical place, I attended Arrowbear Music Camp from elementary school through high school and enjoyed every summer I spent there. The program is run by a special group that cares greatly about music and enriching children's lives. I have also had the pleasure of working as a counselor and assorted other jobs and have made life-long memories and friends through that. If you have a child who is interested in expanding their musical abilities, I highly recommend sending them here. I'm forever grateful for this camp and the time I have spent here. read more

What a joy it is to drive up the mountain and find old friends.... How I miss living in Running Springs... I think it was 1989 to 1993... I was a rebel teen kid + ended up on a lonely mountain. ... Maaaan.... (( 1989 )) Boy did i feel out of place .......but .... The Teachers who make a difference in our lives last over three lifetimes! Dennis was such a teacher... He taught us Music .... To study music ... Find our place in music .. Dropping all judgement of our skills or fears of not sounding smooth.... We walked through doors of notes and sheet music into corridors of grace + acceptance Mr Dennis exemplifies this standard of The master teachers. The Music School helped us to bloom... To not fear the strength of our blooming as hypnotic roses to be worshipped.... Under the teaching of a True Jedi master of the Arts your fear of success vanishes and you radiate freedom that echoes the rim of the world highway... And this dear readers is why .... Such a gem as the Arrowbear exist. The Slice of Peter pans Island... Equipped with mermaids+ Pirates.... You are free here . Melodical freedom Creative freedom.... Unrestricted from radio noise or drowning under marketing scam music smoothly buttering the want want want..... None of that is needed here .... The i have enough settles in and your balance returns. That is what good music ought to do.... Free the senses and open the muscle... Reprogram the mind to its mathematical reading of notes and handwritten sheets of poety.... Let the butterflies cheer for you and the trees bow in adoration... A grandiose wonderland thats perfect for youth in our political suffocation of 2017 Once we were free ... Let the children have music With rings on her fingers and bells on her toes and she shall have music wherever she goes .... Well done Dennis + staff .... Since 1942 and the magic remains.... read more

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I went there in the 8th grade decades ago and still remember it! It was such a cool experience. I wish I'd have sent my son there when he was a good age to absorb everything. He's 34 now lol. Anyway, it's a really good way to learn sequencing, as well as play your instrument for hours on end in full orchestra, chamber orchestra, and string quartet. I was glad to see the camp is still up and running! read more

Our daughter just returned from the 2 weeks intermediate camp. Here is a review from 2021. If you need a camp that drills students/kids and has top notch musicians from all over the world, this is not the camp for you. The administrators and staff openly admit this. If you want a camp (it is camping) where your child gets into the car and begs to go back next year, this is the camp for you. There are no master classes and there is no competition. Be honest with yourselves as to what you want for your children. We have been to both types of camps. Each has their benefits. As far as the drill instructor camp where they only do music, we were fortunate to meet our current teachers (violin and cello). Other than that, our kids hated it. If you attend one of these camps, I would suggest you ask in advance what activities they have planned for kids and what the food is like. If they have no activities planned, know your kids will be sitting in the dorm room a lot and you should plan accordingly. At Arrowbear, the kids learn to play together. They do not receive individual instruction. That is fine because we take private lessons every week. Our daughter had an absolute blast even in these COVID times. Every day, from sunup to sundown, the kids were kept busy with activities, including rehearsal. The food, surprisingly, was good. That was one of the first things we asked since she missed out on 6th grade camp. This is much better and we will have our other kids go to Arrowbear instead of 6th grade camp. There is nothing quite like seeing you child give big hugs to everyone at the end of camp. We even got big hugs which was kind of gross now that we look back on it (COVID and all). We were worried that our daughter would be picked on because of her disability (giant hearing aids) but she was not. Everyone loved her and she made great friends (not because of disability). As others posted, you will get dirty. Bring 1 set of nice clothes for the end performance (shoes too). The rest should be clothes you can trash. We will send our daughter back with her hiking boots. Some other tips. Drive is a real pain. Do not bring a giant SUV if you can avoid it. The road is very narrow. Rent an instrument if you can for 2 weeks. We let our daughter take her cello and saw other students banging their instruments on the concrete. We cringed. Next year, we will rent one for 2 weeks. Stock up on 1 bottle of bleach and 1 box of oxyclean. Go to costco and get it while they are at camp. You will need it. Bring snacks and put a little money on the account so you child can buy stuff. They will want a shirt/sweater and regular ice cream as it is hot. Bring sunblock and swimsuits. Bring bug repellent and bug repellent bracelets. Pack liquid soap. Do not bring fuzzy clothes or blankets. The stuff on the ground will stick to them and come home with your child. Have fun and remember you are camping. read more

wonderful camp. the staff is amazing. and they will make your experience wonderful. the owners are incredible and will get to know each camper. I have camped there 7 years now and I highly recommend it to anyone whether advanced or intermediate to music. read more

The camp was absolutely amazing and the counselors are nice. I loved hiking that and the pool.

Arrowbear Music Camp was a huge influence in my life. I attended for a few summers in the 1990s. While the music was wonderful, there are so many other reasons to attend. The camaraderie was the primary reason I attended. The people were kind, considerate and tons of fun. We laughed and talked for hours and really bonded. The staff and counselors made sure everyone enjoyed their time at camp. The values were also very important to me. Arrowbear music camp enforced kindness to people, animals and the world around us. We sang songs that uplifted us and made us think. We were reminded to treat people as we would want to be treated. Life is sweeter and gentler up the hill. The food was great, sleeping under the stars is unforgettable and the music will stay with me forever. Arrowbear, Arrowbear We're so happy to be here Where we share with those who care Music and friendship so dear Mountain air magic fills heart and soul Clear bright skies, so blue Arrowbear, Arrowbear We'll be sorry to leave you read more

My 10 year old attended the two-week Intermediate 1 camp -- it was outstanding. She raved about it. The staff was so passionate about what they offer; a group of talented musicians who excelled at working with kids. The staff chose interesting and challenging music and then provided enough support, training & encouragement so the kids could rise to the challenge. In addition to practicing and workshopping the music, they hiked, had campfires, swam, played games, tie-dyed shirts and -- above all -- made friends. My daughter grew much more than I expected; she returned with new skills and already has plans to return next year. Deep bows to EVERYONE who makes Arrowbear what it is. read more

For any parents of young musicians, I encourage you to allow them to spend a week at Arrowbear Music Camp this summer... I was able to attend 2 or 3 sessions as a kid, and I absolutely enjoyed it. The camp was filled with amazing staff, and I have fond memories of my time spent at Arrowbear. Check out their page, their website, and you will find that they are a very welcoming bunch of people. I have no doubt your children will love it like I did. read more

An outstanding camp that keeps in mind the balance between a demanding musical experience, and the regenerative, outdoor summer vacation experience that young people need. Run by highly caring individuals that have the best interest of the students at heart. Beautiful location. Great food! read more

I attended Arrowbear both as a camper, for seven summers, and as a counselor, for one summer. I can honestly say that my experiences there helped shape me into the person I am today. There is nothing quite like practicing and performing with an orchestra outside in the mountains. The conductors are so passionate and great at what they do, their enthusiasm is contagious. There is also free time for other activities like hiking, swimming, games etc. The food is pretty good and accommodating to all diets and there are various snacks for purchase during breaks throughout the day. There are different sleeping area options, from an indoor cabin to bunk beds outside under the stars. The camp directors and counselors really go out of their way to make sure everyone feels included and comfortable and it is that sense of belonging that really makes Arrowbear a special place. Without a doubt I will send my future children to this camp and I highly recommend you do the same! read more

Between my 2 kids we have been coming to the Jazz sessionof Arrowbear Music Camp four years in a row. It is a "can't miss." A excellent experience and an excellent value! So glad we found out about it. The kids have a great time, get about 30 hours of music instruction and become noticeably better musicians in only a week. A 10 out of 10. read more

If you have a child that loves music this is the place!!! I was so nervous to send my son away for 2weeks but boy was I pleasantly surprised. We dropped him off on a Sunday and 3 days later I received my first phone call from him. He first words were Mom I am safe and I am having so much fun. These words set me at ease for the rest of the time. He sent me letters and we spoke every 3rd day and he would tell me how much fun he was having how he wished he did not have to go to school because arrowbear is better. That all the kids get along and our nice. He said he could be himself and not be judged. That he was learning so much about music more than he has learned at school. When I picked him up he was like a new 12year old. The final concert was breathtaking. The memories he has will last him a lifetime. I will be sending him back again next year. If any parents are nervous about sending your kids don't be the kids will have a blast and feel at home. It teaches them so many things. Thank you arrowbear and all of the team members for many my sons summer!! read more

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I received a scholarship to Arrowbear in elementary school. What a wonderful opportunity... I have fabulous memories. I can't wait to send my kids there. A good combination of music, camplife and memories. You can't ask for more. read more

Arrowbear Music Camp is a wonderful place. A simple camp that began as a place for students to play music together. Very mom&pop, but with a faculty from all over and major creds. I was a camper for 6 years, counselor, and faculty. It shaped who I am, gave me friendships that have lasted forever, and gave me a love of music that I have taken forward in my own work as a teacher and performer. This is a funky 5 star wonderful amazing camp and I recommend it HIGHLY!!!! read more

I can't even begin to describe the importance of Arrowbear Music Camp. It was an incredible experience for the 7 summers I camped and the 2 that I counseled, incomparable to anything else I have done. This camp helped shape me into a more honest, caring and self-reflective person as well as increased my love for music and friendship. I would recommend this camp to absolutely everyone! read more

Just picked my son from the Jazz/Impro session. Great music, amazing sharing of his experiences on the way back,definetely will be back and spread the word!! Unbelievable how they can run it while being so super affortable! My son says that the coaches play "Just makes you want to go back and start practicing!". And, the kids had kitchen duty, such marvel still exists! read more

Arrowbear Music Camp is genuine. The setting, the staff, the ideal all revolves around something that the present age lacks. I attended Arrowbear both as a camper and as a counselor, and my time there was indescribable and immeasurable. I will not say the camp shaped me, however, or anything in that regard. It did, however, provide a truly safe atmosphere, a feat found few and far between today. Arrowbear is an incredible musical institution and boasts a staff that hails from all parts of the country with experience from all levels of music from professional performers to high school and primary school educators. They also employ their dorm counselors through an extensive application that measures more than their aptitude. Incidentally, all are wonderful people. Arrowbear preaches not for change, not for self-improvement or the like, but to leave whatever preconceived notions that we had of ourselves down the mountain, and be the people we are without prejudice. Camper adhere only to one social rule, and that is to treat others how they would like to be treated. Arrowbear, through the exceptional and endless work by the musical staff and dorm counselors, help create an environment where musicians can pursue their passions and practice that same passion in other ares of their life, especially in their interactions with the other campers. It is the premiere music summer camp that finds a perfect balance between musical integrity and personal growth. read more

I spent over 7 summers at Arrowbear Music camp, both as a camper and counselor. My children both attended camp as well. Words cannot adequately express the impact my experience at camp has had on me. Making music in this slightly rustic and beautiful outdoor environment remains some of my fondest childhood memories. I am the musician I am today because of Aroowbear Music Camp. read more

My daughter has attended Arrowbear 3 summers in a row now. Each year she claims was better than the last. The staff is fantastic. The instruction is fantastic. The food is fantastic. The overall experience is fantastic. The only reason I have not given it 5 stars is the buildings/bunkrooms/restrooms are in a bit of disrepair, which of course, doesn't seem to bother the kids in the slightest, just something that stands out to a parent. It is a tremendous value at the price and a great balance of camping in the mountains combined with lots of learning and rehearsing music. I have no doubt she will attend as long as she is of age and may ask to come back as a counselor after that. Truly a wonderful experience. read more

I have been coming to this camp for almost twenty years. I started as an instrumental camper, then became a choral camper, then started counseling, now I help run some of the sessions. In short, Arrowbear is the single influence outside my family that has had the most impact on my life. It has shaped me into the person I am today and made me mindful of others, passionate about music, and far more thoughtful overall. Some of my closest and most valued friends come from Arrowbear, and Dennis, who owns the camp, is one of the most inspirational people I have ever met. The counselors and other staff members work at Arrowbear almost entirely because we love it and want to contribute to something we recognize as being exceptionally valuable. This means two things. First, the staff is there for the right reasons--to create a safe environment for people to form lasting and positive relationships and to learn about music, the outdoors, and themselves. Second, Arrowbear is a bargain for how much you get in the week, ten days, or three weeks you are there. Many other camps are far more expensive than Arrowbear, but this is not because they are better. If you are considering coming to this camp or sending your child to this camp, do it. Even if you go just once, you'll have lasting memories of the session. But odds are if you go once, you'll continue to make Arrowbear a part of your life for many years. read more

In terms of life experiences that have shaped me as an individual, my many summers at Arrowbear Music Camp would be number one. Just to get one thing straight, we are there for the music...because music is passionate, unifying, beautiful and simply an essential part of life. Making music with other motivated musicians from all over southern California (and elsewhere even) helped motivate me and enable me to grow quickly as a musician. But the open and supportive environment at the camp really helped me discover my values and personality. I credit these few weeks every summer (1990-1996) with my transformation from an angsty and confused pre-teen to confident and responsible young adult. The camp facilities are perfect for enjoying what little time outside of rehersals we have to swim, play ping-pong, hike and just hang out (oh yeah, and practice). As a side note, I also camped at the Idyllwild School of Music and the Arts and while the musical level was extremely high, and the facilities were top-notch, the overall (musical and human) experience paled in comparison. Why? Nothing compares to making music with your friends (many of whom have remained some of my closest throughout my adult life). I know my sons will be going when they are old enough... read more