NatureBridge Conference and Retreat Center

SO. MUCH. FUN!!! Just got back from chaperoning my son’s class. I am NOT a good camper, but this was the kind of camp I love– it was a mini-​vacation!
#1. No bed bugs. No bug bites. Nothing reported by any of the groups we shared a cabin with, so don’t worry, I think it’s all under control. Only concern was poison oak, but the kids learned how to identify it quickly and accurately– no itchy rashes reported either.
#2. The food was sooooooooooo good (and healthy). I think it’s all organic/​locally sourced, and so yummy– the kids kept going back for more. (Dear chef, I want that vegetarian tofu curry recipe!)
#3. The kids in our group behaved really well. Even those I expected to «go nuts» thrived in the relaxing outdoor environment. So nice not having to deal with any serious behavior problems. I wish it was a regular, year round school program option for my kiddos.
#4. Gorgeous all day and night. We hiked along the shoreline and cliffs– there were fantastic views of the ocean; at night, the kids had hands-​on experience with the bioluminescent plankton in the sand. Lots of hiking, lots to learn. The kids (and adults) loved the «rainbow beach» section of the shore, enjoyed the ocean view, gained confidence hiking the steeper trials, etc… the list goes on.
Last, and most importantly…
#5. Fantastic, knowledgeable, and engaging instructors and staff. Kim and Jonny (sp?) truly care about the environment and all that can be learned from it, and that transferred over to the kids in a very kind and understanding manner. Wyatt was able to manage over a hundred kids at one time– WOW!!! He was able to direct, reprimand and gain respect in a kind, fun manner that made the kids toe the line.
I’m moving in!

I’m writing as an update on my previous review. After our experience with the bed bug situation, we were contacted by Aaron, the facility administrator. He was very concerned about the problem and as a result did everything he could to make things right for my daughter. He also assured me that he would personally make sure that they implemented a more diligent procedure for checking for new infestations, which was to include weekly inspections. If found, they would take action immediately to ensure no children or guests were affected. I believe Naturebridge has made good on those promises and that they strive to make their experience a positive, enriching and healthy experience for all who attend. Also, I would like to personally thank Aaron for his genuine care and concern in this matter. Both his sencerity and professionalism were greatly appreciated. I now feel as if Naturebridge is a place I could again, in good conscience recommend to others.
Sincerely
Christa Baez

Did the night time hike on the beach to see bioluminescence plankton. Was a wonderful time with the family for a Saturday night

I chaperone for my kid’s 6^th grade field trip and even though we loved the hicking and other activities, I decided to leave earlier given the fact that we were notified one day of a «possible» bed bug only to come back the next day after a long day of hicking and be advised that the whole dorm and 4 beds of another were bed bug infested. They took the mattresses out and were told that it was only the bed frames that were affected (I highly doubt it) To avoid any further risk myself and another parent chaperone left that night without a simple apology or anything from the staff. It’s extremely upsetting how irresponsible the staff at Nature Bridge can be with this appatent ongoing issue.

Great service, great food, great view! I worked with NatureBridge on a staff training for about 20 people. The staff here from start to finish was incredibly helpful, eager to answer questions and helped me make the training a success! We rented the Sunset Building, the price was comparable to other locations (in fact it was less than many). The food here was GREAT– a pesto turkey or grilled cheese option one day, and three pizza options the next with full salad bar, fruit, and soups. Sounds simple, but the food really was delicious. Every person I worked with or interacted with on site was friendly. The building itself was great– the top floor overlooked Rodeo Beach– perhaps a distraction, but we all learned what we needed to for the two days we were there. There are hiking trails and the beach for breaks or if you have an hour lunch break (that was plenty of time for eating and a quick trail near the building). I drove from Outer Richmond and it took about 20 minutes to get there by 8 am– no traffic in that direction. Use the directions they provide and you will have no problem finding it (or google map «rodeo beach, marin, ca» and that will get you to the Sunset building as well).
Thank you NatureBridge for a great two days out of the office and into a great setting!

Headlands Institute is a really cool place to hold an event because you get to do something good at the same time. They’re a non-​profit that teaches kids about the environment and so when you go there you support that program.
Plus it’s hard to complain about being on the beach and right by SF. (These guys are literally on the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge) Yeah, it’s not as snazzy as some expensive place in Sausalito, but the Headlands are really pretty. The only frustrating thing was that cell phones didn’t work out there, but they did have wireless internet, so that helped.