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

    • Camp Dates: June 27-30, 2024
    • Location: YMCA of the Rockies-Estes Park, CO
    • Registration opens January 15, 2023
    • Camp Registration will remain open until April 27, 2024, based on space available. 
    • After April 27, a $50 fee for late registration will be charged, and our group lodging block will become open to the public,  so subject to availability.

Even with adoptees born in the U.S., each child has their own heritage, background, and an identity that is distinct from their adoptive parents. While Heritage Camps for Adoptive Families was created specifically for international adoptees, countless domestic adoptive families recognized that so much of what we do meets a very critical need for those who have adopted children from the U.S.

Networking with other adoptive and foster families, adult adoptees, and experts in the field of adoption are key components of camp. Each camp’s workshops include nationally renowned speakers and experts in their field. Camp provides resources, education, and dialogue on a variety of topics, such as navigating birth/first family relationships, holistic approaches to well-being, complex trauma, self-care for parents, and perspectives of adult adoptees.

DAC is also about having fun together with other adoptive families – kids and parents developing relationships that provide friendship and support al year long.

Much-loved volunteers provide guidance, friendship, and role models for the children at camp. Many camp counselors & presenters are adopted themselves or connected to adoption in some way.

“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.”

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.

 

Specialized Programs

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

We send out camp registration information in February/​March, periodic e-​mail newsletters and other pertinent information.