2026 JA Camp: A Summer Full of Friendship, Fun & Firsts

By Anthony Williams | Aug. 31, 2026  

This summer, 726 families registered their children for an Arthritis Foundation juvenile arthritis (JA) camp session — and more than 150 campers experienced the magic of JA summer camp for the very first time. 

Across nine states, we hosted nine residential camp sessions and one family camp weekend, giving children and families living with juvenile arthritis opportunities to spend time with others who understand their challenges. More than 350 volunteers stepped up to help make it all happen, serving as counselors, activity leaders, medical and mental health professionals and more. 

And somewhere in all those numbers, the real magic happened. 

There were 10+ campfires, approximately 1,000 s’mores, countless friendship bracelets, silly costumes, camp songs, dance parties, games, crafts and enough sunscreen and bug spray to last a lifetime. But the best part of JA camp can’t be counted. 

JA Camp Is Where Lasting Friendships Flourish 

For some campers, camp meant a first night away from home. For others, it meant reuniting with friends they may only see once a year. Campers tried new things, brought back favorite traditions, stayed up a little too late, laughed a lot and packed more fun into a few days than seemed possible. 

Most importantly, they had the chance to be surrounded by peers who understand what it's like to live with juvenile arthritis. And they learned about helpful JA resources they might not have heard about yet. 

That’s what makes JA camp so special. It’s a place where kids can build friendships, discover new confidence and simply be kids — along with other kids who truly get it. 

The People Behind the Magic at JA Camp 

A memorable camp experience doesn’t happen by accident. Hundreds of volunteers and staff worked behind the scenes and on the front lines to make every moment possible. 

They made sure medications were given, activities were ready, cabins were staffed. And that water bottles were filled, meals were served, buses arrived and all the moving parts of camp came together safely and smoothly. 

Their time, talent and commitment helped create a place where campers could explore, connect and make memories. 

Until Next Summer, Stay Connected 

And just like that, another summer of JA camp is in the books. 

• Nine residential camps. 
• One family camp weekend. 
• Nine states. 
• 726 registered campers. 
• 350+ volunteers. 
• 150+ first-time campers. 
• Approximately 1,000 s’mores! 

Those numbers tell one story. The friendships, laughter, confidence and memories created along the way tell another. 

It was a pretty great summer — and we can't wait to see what next summer brings! 

If your child or family is part of the juvenile arthritis community, there's a place for you at a JA camp. We hope you’ll join us for next year’s season of friendship, fun and unforgettable moments! 

Until next summer, stay connected and keep in touch through our Connect Groups and JA Family Days held throughout the country.