KOA & Care Camps: Bringing Hope to Kids Battling Cancer

KOA & Care Camps: Bringing Hope to Kids Battling Cancer

For over three decades, KOA and its network of more than 500 campgrounds across North America have partnered with the Care Camps Foundation to support its specialized summer camps, designed for children facing cancer and their siblings. What began in 1984 with campground owners fundraising for a few camps has blossomed into a powerful movement of healing and community.

Why KOA Helps

KOA’s mission is “connecting people to the outdoors and each other.” Care Camps embodies that spirit by offering kids a place to play, learn, and forge friendships—while continuing their medical treatments. It’s about real camp magic in a setting built on compassion and care.

The Impact

  • $20+ million raised by KOA and campground partners since the program began.

  • In 2023 alone, over $1.6 million raised, touching the lives of 41,000+ children and families.

  • Fundraisers include the KOA “Big Weekend,” auctions, raffles, and campground-led events.

How You Can Make a Difference

  1. Camp with a Cause: Every May, KOA’s “Big Weekend” offers a free night of camping—and a great opportunity to donate when booking.

  2. Give Generously: Donation boxes are available at every KOA campground, as well as online giving options all year round!

  3. Stay Informed: Follow KOA and Care Camps for updates and stories of campers whose lives you’re helping transform.

Why It Matters

Care Camps aren’t just about camping—they’re about offering hope, normalcy, community, and joy to families navigating a cancer journey. It's about giving kids a chance to be kids, in nature, with peers who understand, under compassionate care.

Join KOA in Making a Difference

When you camp at KOA, you're not just enjoying the outdoors—you’re actively supporting a foundation of healing and connection. To learn more or donate, visit KOA or Care Camps Foundation online.

Let’s celebrate this beautiful partnership—and help ensure that every child battling cancer has the chance to experience the transformative power of camp.

Share This: