Camp Spirit

2013 Camp Week: June 16-22, 2013
Register Online
Children between ages 8 - 15

Summer camp is one of the highest, positive-impact activities in which a child can participate. So much can happen in a week's time to improve that ever so fragile self-esteem that we all try to instill into our kids. Camp Spirit is a week long camping experience for childern living with Juvenile Arthritis. Camp staff and volunteers strive to provide campers with a camping experience that includes, rock climbing, hiking, zip-lines, boating, swimming, craft and other activities in a environment that takes into account the campers srengths and not the limitations of the campers disease. Getting to know others who live with the same limitations that they do campers build friendships that last a lifetime. Learn more about specific activities.

Want to know how your child will be spending his/her day? Make sure you check out the Camper Schedule to get a sneek peek of a camper's daily life at Camp Spirit!

Visit Camp for a Day

This is a great option to consider, whether you are trying to decide if your child is ready for camp or just want to know more about camp! Camp Kitaki hosts what they call Family Days every year. It is a great way to get acquainted with Camp Kitaki, where Camp Spirit is held each year. Activities include touring the facility and enjoying camp activities such as hiking, archery, crafts, lake activities and horse rides!

Session Dates: May 12 or May 19 from 1pm-5pm

Not available for Family Day dates? Camp Spirit does offer an afternoon visit option during camp week. Kids turning old enough to attend camp or trying to decide if they would like to attend camp the following year may visit for an afternoon with a parent.

To inquire about visiting camp please contact Jessica atjlacroix@arthritis.org or 515-278-0636.

Here is what our campers are saying!

I want to go to Camp Spirit to make friends with people that have the same condition as me!
-Jack, Age 8
I love going to camp because everyone is relaxed and they aren’t afraid to have a little fun either! Camp Spirit is my second home in the summer! I love seeing my friends that I have a lot on common with!
-Allyson, Age 13
Last year we had a blast out on the lake! It was a real highlight racing to get to back to the shore in in the paddleboats!
-Andrew, Age 15
I loved zip-lining and horseback riding. I liked making new friends and knowing other kids with JA too!
-Laura, Age 9

Enjoy the video and pictures below from previous camps!