Heritage Camps for Adoptive Families

Formed in 1992, Heritage Camp for Adoptive Families supports loving families created by adoption. HCAF lifts up adopted children through proven and structured programs that support strong identity formation. Our nine distinct, yet connected camps, promote healthy, confident and well-grounded adoptees who are proud of their unique families and their heritage.

HCAF also connects adoptive families to a larger community “just like themselves,” regardless of international or domestic adoption. HCAF families celebrate shared experiences, bond over unique life challenges, and forge new opportunities for growth and development, together.

Celebrating Connections at Heritage Camps for Adoptive Families

In 2026, HCAF is Celebrating Connections – honoring the relationships, identity-building, and sense of belonging that shape the lives of adoptees at every age.  These are some of the many ways we nurture connections:

A Place for Every Adoptee and Every Family

Our camps nurture identity, confidence, and community for all children and adults in the domestic, international, and kinship adoption and foster care communities.  Children (age 3 +), teens, parents, and adult adoptees all find space to explore who they are and connect with others who understand their stories.

We warmly welcome all families and individuals, including LGBTQ+ members, single parents, and people of every religious and cultural background. Children and adults with special needs are supported so everyone can participate and connect at camp.

Plus, family members of all ages benefit from the expertise of professionals skilled in identity development, complex trauma, art therapy, and more. That’s coupled with fun and engaging activities that support relationship building not just between children, but parents too. 

People Who “Get It”

At camp, you’ll be welcomed by trained counselors, knowledgeable presenters, and enthusiastic volunteers — many of whom are adoptees themselves. Families find a community where the adoption journey is understood, supported, and celebrated.

Racial/Cultural Connections Where They Matter

When cultural and racial heritage is part of a camper’s identity, HCAF offers authentic experiences led by counselors and presenters who are racial and cultural mirrors for our campers.  For all adoptees—from kids to adults—camp provides community with people who share similar life journeys. Adoptees can embrace living in their own skin. 

Programs and Activities that Support All Campers

Professionals skilled in identity development, complex trauma, art therapy, youth engagement, and adult adoptee support guide our programming. In camps where cultural heritage is part of a family’s story, the community also leads rich cultural programming that deepens understanding and celebrates identity. Engaging activities, including outdoor experiences, and thoughtful workshops strengthen relationships among children, parents, caregivers, and adult adoptees.

Connections That Last For a Lifetime!

HCAF creates lifelong bonds with peers, mentors, adult adoptee role models, and—when applicable—cultural communities that help shape identity and belonging. These relationships continue long after camp ends, offering support through every stage of life.

Families return year after year—even decade after decade—because camp is where their children feel seen, valued, and understood. It’s where adoptees find people who “get it,” parents find community, and everyone discovers they’re part of something bigger.