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NF Camp

NF Camp is dedicated to teens and young adults living with all types of neurofibromatosis or schwannomatosis.

2024 NF Camp Paused

We regret that NF Camp is paused for 2024.

Patient families and young adults with NF are welcome to attend our 2024 NF Summit from April 11th-13th in San Antonio where you will have access to educational sessions as well as social events that will give you the opportunity to connect with your peers. Additionally, below is a a Recommended List of other camps that have been referred to us by NF families.

Questions? Please contact Elana Loftspring at (571) 300-5491, or via email at info@ctf.org

Recommended Camps for 2024

NF Camp is paused for 2024, but here is a list of other camps recommended by NF families:

  1. Brainy Camps (new location and leadership)
  2. Texas NF Family Camp
  3. NF Michigan Camp
  4. NF Family wellness retreat: Littlest Tumor Foundation
  5. Club NF Summer Camp 
  6. Seattle Children’s Summer Camp – Camp Korey (during “Neuro Week”)

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to the organizations listed above if you are interested in attending one of their camps.

girl playing cards smiling at camera
group of kids at camp

About NF Camp

NF Camp is the summer camp of the Children’s Tumor Foundation, dedicated to teens and young adults living with types of NF, including neurofibromatosis type 1 and all types of schwannomatosi, including NF2-related schwannomatosis. For over 20 years, CTF has hosted this week-long experience for teens and young adults ages 11 to 19, which has historically taken place on the third or fourth week of July (6 nights/6 days) in Salt Lake City, Utah.

NF Camp is not just about fun-filled activities, it is a chance to make lasting friendships with others who understand what it’s like to be a young person with NF. Bringing together over 100 youths living with NF over the course of two weeks for community friendship and fun, Camp provides NF patients with the psychosocial tools to build their confidence and independence through peer support and recreational therapy.

NF Camp has a 5:1 camper-to-counselor ratio with a 24-hour Registered Nurse on-site at all times. NF Camp has onsite activities such as a ropes course, swimming, horseback riding, and an NF education talk from local NF specialists from the University of Utah Medical Center. There are numerous offsite activities for the campers to enjoy, including field trips to the local amusement park, Salt Lake City Bees game, the local waterpark, and a day of canoeing.

Camp provides a safe space and a community for those who normally feel isolated and alone, allowing the opportunity for young adult NF patients to spend time with others facing similar challenges. Many times, campers will form lifelong friendships.

Get the Facts

Who

Our facility can host up to 50 campers per week with a counselor to camper ratio of 5:1. NF Camp is for young adults ages 11-19 who are affected by neurofibromatosis type 1 or schwannomatosis, including NF2-related schwannomatosis (which was formerly referred to as NF2).

What

Exciting activities for all interests and abilities! Offsite trips include a Water Park, Amusement Park, Go-Karts, and Laser Tag. On-site activities include horseback riding, hanging out, ropes course, a talent show, and the ultimate team-building event, Survivor Day!

Why

Community, support, friendship, and fun! Opportunities are endless for teens and young adults when they arrive at NF Camp. Often, for the first time, campers can talk freely about living with NF, share their experiences, and make long-lasting friendships. At camp, they don’t have to worry about the next MRI or doctor appointment; they can be kids – have fun and enjoy life!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does my child sleep?

Each program accommodates 40 campers, and is filled on a first-come, first-served basis. There are two cabins for sleeping arrangements: one for boys and one for girls.

Are cell phones allowed?

Emergency phones are located on Camp K grounds. Children may bring cell phones, but they may only be used at a specific time each day to phone home. We want campers to immerse themselves into camp life, and disconnect from outside distractions.

How do I sign up for NF Camp?

NF Camp is paused for 2025. Registration typically opens in February. Please check back next year.

Who will take care of my child’s medical needs?

Camp K has an RN on-staff, who meets with each camper to discuss any medication regimen.

What is the camper to counselor ratio?

Our ratio is at most 5:1; each group of campers creates a relationship with our counselors and sticks with them all week!

What if my camper wants to come home midweek?

This is very rare, but if need be, it is upon the parent or guardian to arrange new travel plans for the camper. Camp K and CTF will make sure we can get them to the airport, as needed.

How can I encourage my reluctant child to attend camp?

Show them our brochure, our website, and videos. Additionally, NF Camp has many return campers who are willing to talk to NF Heroes about this amazing opportunity.

What if I am too nervous to send my kid to camp?

We understand you may be more nervous than your child about going to camp. Rest assured, the days will be full of fun activities that are well-supervised, and that your child’s medical needs will be managed. If you will like to talk to another family about the NF Camp experience, please reach out to our NF Camp manager.

What do we pack for NF Camp?

We encourage all campers wear comfortable and sporty clothes. Once we receive and accept your application, we will send you a suggested packing list.

What is your camp discipline policy?

We have all campers sign a Code of Conduct before camp, so they are aware of our camp standards prior to arriving. At NF Camp, we have a three-strike rule. First instance, campers talk with a counselor as a warning for their actions. Second, Camp K and CTF speak with the parent regarding behavior, and the camper is required to sign a final notice behavioral contract. Third, arrangements are made to send the camper home at guardian’s expense. We understand that the behavior of one camper can have a significant impact on the group, so we are committed to ensuring that our campers show respect for one another and for our staff.

What happens in a medical emergency at camp?

There is an RN on site at all times. Additionally, Camp K has a wonderful relationship with Utah’s Children Hospital, only minutes away. Parents are always contacted, and campers are in good hands. CTF has all insurance information on file for campers from the camper’s application.

Can I switch sessions after my child is enrolled?

Session changes can be made as long as space is available. However, sessions fill up quickly, and changes are not always possible. There are no fees for making session changes, unless full scholarship has been received and flights have already been booked.

Do you have a menu to accomodate food allergies or picky eaters?

Dietary requirements must be specified on the application in order for Camp K to have proper food available for your camper.

Should I give my camper spending money?

Spending money is not mandatory, but is encouraged for when campers want a little extra something on our offsite activities. We suggest no more than $50.

What if my camper does not want to do a certain activity?

Campers are encouraged to do their best and step outside of their comfort zone, but participation is not mandatory.

boy wearing sunglasses smiling at camera

Partner With Us

If you would like to help support NF Camp, please contact Elana Loftspring at (571) 300-5491, or via email at eloftspring@ctf.org.

Thanks to these Partners, who have made NF Camp a reality for many years:

Jack and Marjorie Schillinger Foundation | Recursion | Bob’s Discount Furniture Charitable Foundation