🌿 Step Into the Village: NCDC Summer Dance Camp 2026

 

Imagine a week where your main objective is to connect, move, and express yourself in a beautiful forest sanctuary. That is the essence of the Northern California Dance Collective (NCDC) Summer Dance Camp.

 

Rather than a rigid, technique-focused convention, NCDC is a self-described "village of dancers." It is a multigenerational, substance-free gathering built around creative self-expression, conscious movement, and community. Whether you are a seasoned contact improv dancer or someone who just loves to groove in the living room, there is a place for you here.


 

💫 What to Expect

 

The daytime is packed with an eclectic mix of movement modalities, yoga, music, and art. In the evenings, the camp transitions into live performances and dynamic DJ-led dances.

Something for Every Movement Style

  • Conscious & Inner-Directed: Authentic Movement, Contact Improvisation, Soul Motion, and 5Rhythms.
  • High-Energy Rhythms: African Dance and Capoeira.
  • Partner & Social Connection: Fusion, Tango, and more.
  • No Experience Needed: The focus is entirely on connection and expression, not flawless technique.

🚫 A Conscious Container: To keep the container safe, clear, and grounded, this is a strictly substance-free event (no alcohol or non-prescription drugs). It is also a scent-free camp—please leave perfumes, colognes, essential oils, and heavily scented products at home.

 

🌲 The Venue: Cedar Springs Retreat Center

 

Located in North Fork, CA, this 92-acre sanctuary sits beautifully in the Sierra Nevada foothills, right near the gateway to Yosemite National Park.

Feature

Details

Dance Spaces

Dedicated halls equipped with professional, joint-friendly sprung floors.

Nature & Relaxation

Open meadows, shaded hiking trails, and a peaceful lake for swimming.

Waterfront Note

The waterfront area is clothing-optional.

EV Travel Tip

There is no EV charging on site. Make sure to charge your vehicle fully before heading up into the foothills!

 

🗓️ Dates & Flexible Scheduling

 

You can dive in for the full, immersive 9-day experience, or choose a 4-day block that fits your schedule.

Full Camp / First Block Arrival

Saturday, June 13 @ 2:00 PM

Camp officially kicks off. Settle into your cabin or pitch your tent, explore the grounds, and join the opening gatherings.

Block Switch-Over

Wednesday, June 17

The transition day. First 4-day block wraps up, and the second 4-day block participants arrive to join the village.

Final Departures

Sunday, June 21 @ 3:00 PM

Closing integration, packing up, and saying farewell to the community.

 

👥 Who Is This For?

 

The community is intentionally multigenerational, welcoming everyone from infants to elders. Most participants land in their 30s to 50s and travel from across California.

  • Families Welcome: A separate, dedicated Kids Camp (ages 4–12) runs during the day, giving parents plenty of time to take classes and dance.
  • All Relationship Statuses: Singles, couples, and families thrive here. Non-dancing partners looking to enjoy nature and community are also entirely welcome.
  • Intimate Scale: The event is strictly capped at approximately 220 participants to ensure a close-knit, village feel.

 

 

💰 All-Inclusive Sliding Scale Pricing

 

Your registration covers absolutely everything: all meals, accommodations (cabin bunk, tent space, or vehicle camping), parking, and access to every single class, dance, and performance.

Rates below reflect the early "Can't Wait" discount (limited availability; rates may increase after May 20).

Adult Daily Rates (Based on Income)

  • Higher Income (Over $80K/year): $220 / day
  • Middle Income ($40K–$80K/year): $195 / day
  • Low Income (Under $40K/year): $170 / day

Youth Daily Rates

  • Teens (Ages 13–19): $85 / day
  • Children (Ages 4–12): $60 / day
  • Toddlers & Infants (Under 4): Free

 

🤝 Work Exchange & Financial Aid: Want to exchange energy for tuition? Work-exchange positions are available, but you must apply at forms.gle/yREmLekh2TwMJP4A8 before registering. Partial scholarships are also available for those who need extra support.

 

📝 The Fine Print

 

  • Arrival/Departure: Out of respect for the container and camp logistics, arrival and departure must strictly align with the scheduled times.
  • Agreements: All attendees are required to sign a Camp Release Form and Behavioral Agreement upon registering.
  • Cancellation Policy:
    • Before May 15: $50 fee per block.
    • May 15 – June 1: $175 fee per block.
    • After June 1: No refunds available, except in cases of verified illness notified prior to arrival (subject to a flat $50 fee).

 

🌐 Ready to Join the Village?

 

Spaces fill up quickly due to the camp cap. For full details, registration forms, and community updates: