"Camping in the 310"  (Westside Today Mar. 2005)

The Westside isn't exactly known for camping out, unless you're waiting for a table at a trendy restaurant. However, you may be surprised by the variety of summer camps offered in this part of town. After much research, we've put together an exclusive list that you won't find anywhere else.

Many adults probably wish they could sign up for Day Jams, but this rock and roll camp is limited to boys and girls, ages 9-15. Aspiring rockers will learn how to play guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, or perform vocals. If that wasn't enough, campers get to join a band, and record a CD. Those signed up for multi-week programs star in their own music video. Something tells us this one is going to fill up fast; better start dialing: 800-295-5956, or go to Dayjams.com.

How does summer camp in France sound? Children can have a euro camping experience without ever leaving the Westside, thanks to France Exchange Services. Kids (7-14) can discover new friends and a new language at this bilingual day camp which operates Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm. Swimming and trips to museums are among the activities. Find out more by calling 310-391-4677.

For outdoorsy cowpokes, the Tumbleweed Day Camp located in Kenter Canyon in the Santa Monica Mountains is an ideal place to saddle up. Activites at this Brentwood excursion include: Horseback riding, rock climbing, nature study, and hiking. A plus for parents is the door-to-door transportation which is part of the tuition. For kids who'd rather be water-bound, ask about the High Adventure Program. Get the 411 at 310-472-7474.

Sporty kids will get a kick out of the Prime Time Sports Camp. Guest instructors sound as if they came right out of ESPN: An Olympic soccer team member, pro baseball & basketball players, volleyball pros, world class martial artists, a professional track and field coach, and a major league baseball scout! Even if your son or daughter isn't offered a seven-figure contract, he or she could gain more self-confidence and self-esteem just in time for the new school year. To suit up, call 310-288-4132 or log onto primetimesportscamp.com.

Techno-tainment doesn't teach music file sharing, but this high-end day camp does cover almost everything else. Your child can learn how to build web sites, alter photographs, edit digital video, create video games, work with flash animation, and more. Courses are designed for the appropriate age groups (7-14). By the end of the summer, junior can start his own consulting firm and you can start your early retirement. For more info call 310-550-4625 or 310-550-4753. You can also click online at techno-tainment.com.