Welcome to Kids Camp!

Adventure starts here.

Kids Camp is a one-of-a-kind summer experience designed especially for children living with chronic kidney disease. It’s a place where kids can explore the outdoors, try new activities, and just be kids while surrounded by people who understand them.

From hiking scenic trails and swimming in the sun to soaring on ziplines, creating arts and crafts, and gathering around campfires, every day is packed with excitement, laughter, and discovery. Even better? Campers build real friendships that last long after summer ends.

What makes Kids Camp truly special is that expert medical care is seamlessly built into the experience. With a dedicated team supporting each camper’s health needs, kids can safely join in activities, giving families peace of mind and campers the freedom to fully enjoy the magic of camp.

In a world full of screens, Kids Camp is all about real connection. Here, campers unplug, get outside, and enjoy meaningful moments with new friends and supportive staff. It’s not screen time; it’s real time.

Who Can Join?
Kids Camp welcomes children ages 8–17 who are living with chronic kidney disease, currently on dialysis, or have received a kidney transplant.

Come make memories, build confidence, and experience a summer you’ll never forget.

When: August 2-7, 2026

Where: YMCA Camp Copneconic – Fenton, MI

Registration: April 1 – June 30, 2026.

Kids camp sign

Kids camp 2024 group photo

Campers on paddle boards in the lake

Campers gathering with staff in the camp office

Young camper doing the tree-tops rope course

staff member with young campers in the camp office

Camper doing the agility rope course

Kids Camp Medical Team

Behind every unforgettable camp moment is a team that truly cares.

The Kids Camp Medical Team is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and life-changing experience for every camper. This incredible program is made possible by passionate volunteers including nephrologists, nurses, and pharmacy technicians from leading institutions like Corewell Health’s Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Detroit Medical Center’s Children’s Hospital of Michigan, and Michigan Medicine’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital.

These highly trained professionals are on-site 24/7, providing expert medical care and support. From administering medications to performing dialysis, our team ensures every child’s health needs are fully managed so campers can focus on having fun.

Camper Medical Information

Fun and safety go hand in hand at Kids Camp.

To ensure every child is ready for camp, all campers must receive medical clearance from their pediatric nephrologist or primary care physician. This helps us understand each child’s individual needs and determine how they can safely participate in camp activities.

Physicians are asked to provide guidance on any physical, emotional, or medical considerations so we can create the best possible experience for every camper. All required medical forms and documentation will be provided during the registration process.

Details on Dialysis

We make it possible for campers to stay on track with their care without missing out on the magic of camp.

Campers who require hemodialysis will be transported to a trusted partner dialysis clinic for one treatment during the camp week. Our volunteer dialysis nurses accompany campers and carefully review all treatment plans to ensure continuity of care. Hemodialysis campers should also receive treatment at their home clinics on the Sunday before camp and the Friday after returning home.

For campers on peritoneal dialysis, treatments are performed in a clean, sterile environment within Camp Copneconic’s Health & Wellness Center. Experienced nurses ensure each camper’s routine is maintained safely and comfortably.

 

Transportation Services

We know summer schedules can be busy so we’re here to help!

Kids Camp offers optional transportation services to and from camp to make planning easier for families. In partnership with trusted shuttle providers, NKFM staff accompany campers every step of the way to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Transportation arrangements must be selected during registration, and families will receive designated drop-off and pick-up locations ahead of camp. Please note that transportation is provided to set, central locations, not directly to camper homes.

Contact Us

Want to be kept in the loop? Complete the contact form below to add your child’s name to our email list.

For questions or additional information about Kids Camp, contact:

Devon Hagerman via email dhagerman@nkfm.org or via phone at 800-482-1455 ext. 2370