Where and when is paleoCAMP held?

paleoCAMP is two weeks long, and occurs in June at the Sierra Nevada Aquatic Research Laboratory located in the eastern Sierra mountains in California. SNARL has basic amenities (bunk beds, shared bathrooms, communal kitchens, internet, heat, and A/C). paleoCAMP organizes transport to the station from the Reno, NV airport.

2026 paleoCAMP will be held from June 15-June 29.

How much does it cost?

It is free!* Lodging, airfare, group transport to the camp site, and meals on site are all covered by paleoCAMP.

*Except, there are some things we can’t cover, such as taxi, Uber, Lyft, baggage fees, or any hotel stays in transit. Exceptions can be for certain circumstances, i.e. long rides to and from the departure airport.

For students applying from outside the US: We do accept international students, but typically only 2-3 each year due to the extra cost of international travel. If you can acquire funding from your University or advisor for the international flight that is helpful.

How many students will be at the camp?

25 students, because that is the maximum number that can stay in the SNARL dorm.

What’s the format?

paleoCAMP features a mixture of lectures, tutorials and hands-on activities, field learning, and professional development. See our curriculum page for an overview of the content. We do not post a detailed schedule on the website because it changes every year, but the basic content as outlined on the curriculum page is always covered.

Do I need any special gear to participate?

No! You will need a laptop computer with internet capability and some solid walking shoes. You will not need camping gear. We are committed to providing an accessible experience so field-based activities are chosen with this in mind.

Can I arrive at or leave paleoCAMP late/early?

No. Students must stay for the full length of the camp. Before you apply make sure that you do not have any conflicts for the time period of the camp.