Camp Programs
The Epilepsy Foundation’s Camp Programs provide safe, educational, and fun camping experiences for children and teens with epilepsy. With on-site medical staff and counselors trained in seizure first aid, campers and their parents can rest assured they will be safe and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
To make sure a camp experience is accessible for youth of all abilities, we offer Camp Oz, Day Camp, and Family Camp that are designed to accommodate youth with different needs.
Camp Oz has received a $5,000,000 gift! Learn more.
Camp Oz
Founded in 1983, Camp Oz is a traditional summer camp that provides a safe and fun camping experience for youth ages 9–17 with epilepsy.
Camp Oz is intended for youth with epilepsy, and siblings, ages 9-17 who have a high level of independence. Traditionally, campers enjoy activities like swimming, horseback riding, team-building exercises, and more.
Location
YMCA Camp St. Croix, Hudson, WI
Age Requirement
9-17 years old
Day Camp
Day Camp is for youth ages 6-12 and are intended to help prepare eligible campers for future attendance at Camp Oz. Activities include sports, team building, arts and crafts, and outdoor adventures. Day Camp will have an RN/nurse present to dispense medications and ensure safety.
Location
YMCA Camp Christmas Tree, Mound, MN
Age Requirement
6-12 years old
Family Camp
Saturday, July 29, 2023 | 10 am-3 pm
Family Camp is intended for youth with epilepsy ages 5+ who have additional healthcare needs, e.g. medical, emotional, developmental, social, etc. At least one adult/caregiver must be present for the session however the whole family is welcome. Activities are structured so your family can move at your own pace and hard gravel paths facilitate the use of wheelchairs or other mobility aids as needed.
Location
YMCA Camp Christmas Tree, Mound, MN
Age Requirement
5 years or older
Cost
$50 per family
Read stories from campers
Shreya Donthi – Facing Challenges with a Smile
“I was so excited to be at Camp Oz because it was the first time I had ever stayed away from my parents. I wanted to go to Camp Oz because I wanted to make new friends and I love to be independent,” says Shreya.
Meet Mara LeRoy
Mara LeRoy is always looking for her next activity. She recently learned about indoor skydiving, which naturally she had to try, and just finished up her eighth year of adapted downhill skiing. She’s eager now for the snow to back off and plans to attend the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota’s (EFMN) Family Camp for the third consecutive year this July. Mara has had epilepsy her whole life, but because she uses a wheelchair to get around she hasn’t been able to attend Camp OZ. She has found Family Camp to be a fun day camp that offers some great activities.
More programs for youth with epilepsy
In addition to our camp programming, we offer a Shining Star program specifically for youth to help kids and teens with epilepsy meet and support each other.
Learn MoreThis program is funded in part by:
