Camp Without Limits: Arthritis Foundation Announces 2026 Summer Camps for Kids With Juvenile Arthritis

ATLANTA (Dec. 12, 2025)  — The Arthritis Foundation today announced the 2026 dates and locations of its annual juvenile arthritis (JA) camps, a series of medically supported, confidence-building camp experiences taking place across eight states from June through August. Designed specifically for children living with juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, JA camp offers a traditional summer camp experience in a safe, supervised and fully inclusive environment. 

“JA camp is where kids discover that arthritis does not define them,” says Andrea Ring, Arthritis Foundation’s senior director of Juvenile and Young Adult Initiatives. “Every activity is designed to remove barriers and give campers the confidence to try something new. We want every child to feel seen, supported and capable of more than they ever imagined.” 

“Camp Without Limits” for Kids With Juvenile Arthritis 

Juvenile arthritis affects an estimated 300,000 children and teens in the United States, yet many people still assume arthritis is only an adult condition. Arthritis Foundation JA camps exist to change that narrative. The program creates a community where campers can build friendships, gain independence and feel understood by peers who share similar challenges. 

Throughout the summer, campers will be encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and take part in classic camp activities such as: 

• Swimming and water sports 
• Adaptive climbing and ropes courses 
• Arts and crafts 
• Hiking and outdoor exploration 
• Team games and cabin challenges. 

Every activity is adapted as needed so each camper can participate fully — in an atmosphere free of judgment, pressure and perceived limitations. 

Expert Staff Provide Safety, Support and Peace of Mind 

Arthritis Foundation-hosted JA camps are staffed by trained volunteers — many of whom attended JA camp as children — along with onsite medical professionals, including pediatric rheumatologists, nurses and mental health professionals. This ensures an environment that is both adventurous and medically prepared, giving families peace of mind. 

“Our campers can engage in all aspects of camp because medical support is always there,” says Jennifer Soep, MD, Pediatric Rheumatologist at Children's Hospital Colorado and Volunteer Medical Director at JA Camp Colorado. “Kids are encouraged to challenge themselves, make friends and discover what they’re capable of — and parents know their child’s health needs are understood.” 

2026 JA Camp Locations and Dates 

JA Camps will be held in eight states between June and August 2026. Full schedules and registration links are available at arthritis.org/events/ja-camps. 

2026 State Camp Lineup: 

• Livermore, California — July 7-10 
• Fawnskin, California — June 16-20 
• Empire, Colorado — June 28-July 2  
• Lawson, Missouri — June 8-12  
• Maple Lake, Minnesota — July 19-23   
• Millville, Pennsylvania — July 12-16 
• Eastover, South Carolina — July 6-10 
• Emigration Canyon, Utah — July 28-31 
• Rosholt, Wisconsin — August 16-20  

Families interested in registering for a 2026 JA Camp can visit arthritis.org for details on eligibility, medical forms, financial assistance and state-specific information. 

Registration is open January 12 to March 31. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged. 

Campers, Parents Say JA Camp Changes Their Lives 

Past campers regularly describe the program as a life-changing experience:

Parents echo the impact, often sharing that JA camp is the first place they’ve seen their child feel completely included — physically, emotionally and socially. More than 94% of parents and guardians of 2025 camp attendees report their child made a friend and 91% say their child learned something new at camp.