New Summer Camp in South Carolina Empowers Children Living With Juvenile Arthritis

ATLANTA (March 18, 2026) — Supporters of the Arthritis Foundation’s summer camps for kids with arthritis are cheering the announcement of a new camp location for summer 2026. The Arthritis Foundation’s Camp Joint Adventures in Eastover, South Carolina, will occur Monday, July 6, through Friday, July 10, 2026, bringing children who live with juvenile arthritis and other childhood rheumatic conditions a traditional summer camp experience in a safe, medically-supported and fully-inclusive environment. 

South Carolina is one of nine states, and the only state in the southeast U.S., where Arthritis Foundation JA camp will take place in 2026. While many people still assume arthritis is only an adult condition, close to 300,000 children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with arthritis. Arthritis Foundation JA camps give over 500 children the opportunity to build friendships, gain independence and feel understood by peers who share similar challenges. 

Campers at Camp Joint Adventures will be encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and take part in classic camp activities such as: 

• Swimming and water sports 

• 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. 

“We are thrilled to bring the JA camp experience to South Carolina,” says Andrea Ring, the Arthritis Foundation’s senior director of juvenile and young adult initiatives. “The camp will be much more than a summer experience — it’s a place where kids with JA will discover their own strength, build lifelong friendships and gain the confidence and self-management skills that empower them long after camp ends. We are deeply grateful to our donors and supporters who made this possible, and we are proud to offer a supportive, fun space where young people with JA can truly flourish.” 

Though located in Eastover, South Carolina — campers from surrounding areas are welcome to join Camp Joint Adventures. Registration is open now through March 31, and spaces are expected to fill quickly. Register today. 

About the Arthritis Foundation 

The Arthritis Foundation is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to the fight against arthritis — the nation’s #1 cause of disability. Through groundbreaking scientific research, patient-centered programs, advocacy at all levels of government and robust community engagement, the Foundation empowers people to live their best lives while relentlessly pursuing a cure. With a presence in communities nationwide, we amplify the voices of those affected and work to drive lasting change. Learn more at arthritis.org.