2026 CHILDREN’s BURN CAMP
For one week each summer, the Arthur C. Luf Children’s Burn Camp gives young burn survivors the chance to step away from everyday life, try new things, make friends, and simply have fun.
Every year, campers ages 8 to 17 come together for a week filled with activity, laughter, and connection.
From the photos alone, it is easy to see just how much was packed into those days.
Campers took on the ropes course and climbing challenges, spent time painting outdoors, competed in team-building games, and cooled off with plenty of time in the water. There was swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, waterfront games, and more than a little splashing.
There were also quieter moments — riding together around camp, creating art, hanging out between activities, and spending time with people who quickly become part of the camp community.
And of course, no summer camp experience would be complete without a little organized chaos. A muddy slip-and-slide certainly seemed to take care of that.
This year, the DC Firefighters Burn Foundation helped bring our highest number of campers and volunteers ever, giving them the opportunity to be part of a week designed around confidence, connection, and fun.
While the activities make for great memories, the heart of burn camp is what happens in between them.
The Arthur C. Luf Children’s Burn Camp brings together children who have experienced life-altering burn injuries and gives them a place where they are surrounded by peers who understand parts of their journey. Campers have opportunities to challenge themselves, build confidence, and form friendships in an environment created specifically for them.
They are supported throughout the week by a volunteer team that includes firefighters, burn care professionals, adult burn survivors, and other dedicated volunteers.
This year also brought a change of scenery, with camp moving to its new permanent home at Camp Trexler in Kunkletown, Pennsylvania. The Pocono Mountain setting provided plenty of room for outdoor adventures, waterfront activities, and all the moments that make camp feel like camp.
For the DC Firefighters Burn Foundation, helping make experiences like this possible is an important part of supporting young burn survivors beyond their medical care.
Because sometimes building confidence looks like climbing a little higher.
Sometimes connection happens in a kayak, over a paintbrush, or in the middle of a ridiculous team game.
And sometimes the most important thing is getting to spend a week surrounded by people who understand — and having an absolute blast while doing it.
Want to help make experiences like this possible for young burn survivors?
Your support helps the DC Firefighters Burn Foundation continue sending campers and volunteers to programs that build confidence, connection, and community.
Check Out the Gallery Below
Take a look at more moments from this year’s Arthur C. Luf Children’s Burn Camp — from the ropes course and waterfront to art, games, and everything in between.
