Domestic Adoption Camp
Domestic Adoption Camp’s youth programming is designed to foster a strong sense of pride and connection among domestic adoptees. We welcome families built by domestic adoption, foster care, and kinship, and “waiting families” are encouraged to attend camp. The mission of Domestic Adoption Camp is to provide an unprecedented place for families to learn, share, gain support, and celebrate adoption with each other.
Camp Info
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- Camp Dates: July 17-20, 2025
- Location: YMCA of the Rockies-Estes Park, CO
- Registration opens January 15, 2025
- Camp Registration will remain open until May 15, 2025, based on space available.
- After May 15, a $50 fee for late registration will be assessed, and our group lodging block will become open to the public, so subject to availability.
Each child, including those born in the U.S., possesses a unique heritage, background, and identity separate from their adoptive parents. While initially aimed at international adoptees, Heritage Camps for Adoptive Families has been embraced by numerous domestic adoptive families who find its offerings invaluable.
Domestic Adoption Camp emphasizes networking with other adoptive and foster families, adult adoptees, and adoption experts. Workshops feature esteemed speakers covering various topics like managing birth family relationships, holistic well-being approaches, dealing with complex trauma, parental self-care, and insights from adult adoptees.
In addition to education and resources, the camp fosters connections among families through fun activities that build lasting friendships and support networks throughout the year. Dedicated Counselors play a crucial role as mentors and companions for the children during the camp experience. Many of these Counselors have personal connections to adoption either as adopted individuals or through related experiences.
This camp is a tribute to the unique identity of each child and also honors the adoptive/foster family as a whole. The combination of these aspects has created a nurturing atmosphere that benefits campers of every age.
“The impact this camp had on my son was watching him interact with the other kids as if they’d always been best friends, and to see him getting more comfortable with what it means to be adopted.”
Learn More
A Family Experience
Each camp is a family experience. Adults attend their own workshops and benefit from opportunities to socialize and connect with other parents who have shared experiences and understanding. Non-adopted siblings typically attend camp, and benefit from fun and connection with their peers, while gaining an understanding of adoption and culture. Extended family — grandparents, aunts, uncles — are also welcome to attend camp.
How To Stay Connected
- Join our mailing list for updates about camp programming, guest presenters, and activities.
- For further information or to inquire about financial stipend opportunities, click here.
- ‘Like’ Domestic Adoption Camp on Facebook to stay connected.
Join Our Mailing List
Our newsletters are a great resource for all adoptive families with helpful links and special events - plus be the first to know when camp registration opens!