About Us

Our Approach

I Don't Wanna Grow Up Kids Camp is all about kids being free to play in the outdoors. We will take them to some of the most beautiful locations on the peninsula and let them enjoy nature in the way they'd like. It's a awesome opportunity that is becoming more and more rare these days. If we're doing our job your children will come home happy, tired and dirty.

Our Story

I love what I do. In my 30's I went back to school to pursue a career I had a passion for. My goal was to become a 5th grade teacher. At the end of my degree in Child and Adolescent Development I had a choice. Rather than do my student teaching and go on to become a teacher I chose to start I Don't Wanna Grow Up kids camp. It was one of the best decisions of my entire life.

This is my dream job. I employ my family and closest friends with the goal of giving your children an amazing outdoor free play experience. Each day we strive to bring your children home tired, dirty and happy. We look forward to seeing you at the beach, hiking, exploring or playing in a creek in the woods.

Mission Statement

When I started I Don't Wanna Grow Up kids camp I created three foundation pillars.

1. Reflect my ideals and values 100%. I wanted to BE the culture at my business. We demonstrate this in several ways. Giving back: For every six kids we sign up we will take one kid on full scholarship. Gratitude: We offer a 10% discount for those who take care of us. Firefighters, Police, Military, First responders and teachers receive can claim this discount. Thank you for all you do. Charity: Several times a year we do Help the Homeless Days. 100% of the money we bring in on these days goes to purchase food, basic needs and hygiene supplies for homeless people. We assemble the kits and meals and then distribute them locally to the homeless ourselves. Our goal this year is to feed 500 people and provide 250 kits.

2. Be engaged. I have no desire to be an administrator. My heart is outdoors with the kids. Being outside engaged in free play is what makes I Don't Wanna Grow Up kids camp who we are. I am directly involved every day in the play, the hikes and the learning and growth experiences of the children and adults. I love what I do and there is nothing I'd rather be doing.

3. Provide as much free time as possible for my family and me. I have my parents and five siblings spread out all over the country along with dozens of aunts, uncles and cousins. Family is the most important thing in the world so having a career which enables me to spend the most amount of time with them is very important to me. Running the camp when kids are out of school makes it possible for me to spend a great deal of time with my family when I'm not working. I am incredibly grateful for that.

Meet the Team

James Reed

Owner & Operator

I am the eldest of six children and a big kid at heart. I have two children of my own. My eldest, Lincoln, works with me at camp. My younger son Liam attends camp regularly and loves it. I have worked with kids my entire adult life. I have been a father, mentor, tutor, coach, teacher, scout leader and program director. Kids and animals are my people and I love to spend my time with them. My degree is Child and Adolescent Development. Experience and education inform everything we do at camp.

I am passionate about what I do and I feel joy on a daily basis at camp. It is a privilege and a blessing to do what I do. It's living a dream. I earn my living play outside with kids. Entrusting me with your children is something I consider a sacred trust. Each day I will return them to you safe, happy and better than when you dropped them off.

Lincoln Cleary

Game Master

I am James' eldest son and have recently moved out here to the Bay area to work here at camp with my father. I have loads of experience working with kids as a camp counselor and most recently a high school wrestling coach. It's a major passion of mine and I love being able to take care of the children and watch them as they grow and learn new things. I take pride in having the privilege of being entrusted with your children's safety and always returning them safely and happier than they were when they arrived. I cannot wait to explore the great outdoors with your children and ensure they have a blast day after day here at camp with us!