The Ultimate North Bay Kids Mountain Bike Camp, Right Where It All Began

Camp Guest Speaker World Cup Mountain Biker Dylan Fryer. Fairfax, CA. Photo Credit: Christopher Keiser.

Behind the Trails at Ross Valley Mountain Bike Camp | Fairfax, CA

In the birthplace of modern mountain biking, where the sport was shaped on the rugged fire roads of Marin County and made famous by the legendary Repack, a summer camp is quietly building the future of riding.

Based in Fairfax, Ross Valley Mountain Bike Camp offers young riders ages eight to fourteen an opportunity to develop real trail skills, grow their confidence, and experience the magic of riding in one of the most iconic mountain bike regions in the world.

Otis Guy, Joe Breeze and crew. Photo Credit: Wende Cragg

Originally founded as Otis Guy Mountain Bike Camp, the program carries forward a legacy deeply connected to the origins of the sport. While the name has evolved, the heart of the mission remains steady. The camp exists to introduce kids to the joy, challenge, and freedom of mountain biking while fostering respect for trails, community, and self.

At the helm is Paul Whitfield, a lifelong cyclist and former UK national champion. With international racing experience and decades of riding knowledge, Whitfield blends high level instruction with an atmosphere that feels welcoming and inclusive. His leadership ensures campers are learning from someone who not only understands technique, but truly loves the sport.

Skill Development with Heart

Ross Valley Mountain Bike Camp is thoughtfully structured to meet riders where they are. Campers are grouped by ability level, ranging from beginner and intermediate to more advanced young athletes. A low counselor to camper ratio allows for individualized coaching and meaningful mentorship.

Each day focuses on building foundational skills such as balance, braking control, climbing efficiency, and safe descending. Riders progress through drills and guided trail rides that help them apply those skills in real terrain. The emphasis is always on progression without pressure. Campers are encouraged to challenge themselves while feeling fully supported.

Safety is a priority, with trained staff guiding every ride. Beyond technical skills, campers learn trail etiquette, environmental stewardship, and the value of teamwork.

Community, Confidence, and Celebration

What sets this camp apart is the culture. The week is not just about riding stronger. It is about becoming more confident, independent, and connected.

Guest athletes occasionally visit to offer tech clinics and inspiration, giving campers exposure to experienced riders who model what dedication and passion look like. At the end of each week, families gather for a relaxed celebration that allows parents to see their child’s growth firsthand.

Many counselors are former campers themselves, creating a full circle mentorship experience. Young riders see what is possible when they stay committed to the sport and to their community.

Growing the Next Generation of Riders

In a region that gave birth to mountain biking, Ross Valley Mountain Bike Camp is ensuring the next generation understands both the history and the responsibility of carrying the sport forward.

For girls especially, programs like this can be transformative. Learning to navigate technical trails builds resilience. Cleaning a climb after multiple attempts builds grit. Riding with peers builds belonging. Those lessons extend far beyond the bike.

In Marin County, where the dirt still tells the story of mountain biking’s beginnings, young riders are writing the next chapter. And it starts with a summer camp that believes every kid deserves the chance to feel strong, capable, and at home on two wheels.