Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Queer Camp for

2SLGBTQIA+ youth in middle school, junior high, and high schoolers (ages 12-18).

Queer Camp is thrilled to have allies join in creating a safe and inclusive space for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. Allies' support and advocacy are crucial in fostering acceptance and understanding. Celebrating together, we amplify the joy and strength in one another and the camp community.

Where is Queer Camp

Queer Camp is in Fayetteville, Arkansas. For the safety of our camp community, the location of our summer camp and Queer Camp's other events are revealed close to the time of the event, and is only shared with registered campers, attendees, and vetted volunteers.

When is Queer Camp

Queer Camp 2025 is set for July 14-18th. Registration will open in January. Check back on our website or follow us on Facebook for updates about open registration!

Is it an overnight camp

Queer Camp is a day camp. While Queer Camp hopes to offer an overnight option in the future, at this time, Queer Camp is unable to accommodate campers overnight.

Is there a virtual option

Queer Camp is in-person only.

How much does camp cost

The camp registration fee for 2024 was $200, but this is subject to change in 2025. Queer Camp works to keep camp affordable, charging only as necessary to fund the cost of camp; however, no camper will be turned away due to financial hardship. Queer Camp provides partial and full scholarships to families in need.

Your donations support camper scholarships and help keep the registration fee affordable!

What kinds of experiences will the camp include

For those wondering what the week will be like, here's a sampling of things we have provided in past years:

Relationship and self-care skills
Theater, gaming, art, and nature focus tracks
Field trips for each focus track
Hair and makeup lessons with guest stylists
Support groups to process experiences around gender identity and sexual orientation
Testimonials from our leadership team about their journeys
Lunch and unlimited snacks every day
Free clothing from the Rainbow Closet
Free affirming hair cuts (with parental permission)
Free time to hang out
Outdoor games, hikes, and water play
Indoor games and video games
A sensory-safe space for when you need to get away
Activism, queer history, and queer psychology classes
Name change clinic (with parental permission)
And all the traditional camp activities!

Are there any religious activities at the camp

Queer Camp has been hosted at a church campus; however, both Queer Camp and its host are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all campers. Queer Camp is not religious; neither Queer Camp nor the host church incorporates any religious activities or practices into the Queer Camp program.

Is Queer Camp safe for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth

Ensuring the safety and well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth is Queer Camp’s top priority, and Queer Camp has policies and procedures in place to create a supportive and inclusive environment where all campers can feel accepted, respected, and valued. Queer Camp volunteers are trained in first aid, CPR, and emergency response procedures, with a camp nurse available at all times. Queer Camp works to create a comprehensive safety plan for camp each year, working closely with local law enforcement to ensure all participants' safety. Additionally, Queer Camp has a no-tolerance policy for bullying, and will take immediate, appropriate action to investigate and address any incidents of bullying at camp.

How diverse is camp staff

Queer Camp volunteers and staff are primarily made up of 2SLGBTQIA+ people ranging in age, race, and religious affiliation. We appreciate and encourage allies to help at camp, but prioritize opportunities for queer adults to engage with the youth, provide mentorship, and be good role models for our campers.

Is there a dress code for the camp

Campers should wear whatever makes them feel most comfortable and truest to themselves. Whether it's jeans and a t-shirt, a favorite dress, or something entirely unique, Queer Camp welcomes campers to express themselves freely at camp and let their individuality shine. On the rare occasion that a camper experiences an issue with their clothing, on-site washer/dryer and free clothing resources are available to all campers. That said, Queer Camp is usually held in July, and Arkansas July heat typically reaches the upper 90s (F), so we encourage campers to dress for warm weather or wear layers to adjust to indoor/outdoor temperature differences.

What should campers bring with them to camp

Campers should bring the following essentials to ensure they have a comfortable and enjoyable experience:

Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is essential, so a refillable water bottle is necessary.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Arkansas summer heat reaches the upper 90s (F), so please dress for warm weather. Wear layers and comfortable clothing suitable for the weather conditions. This might include a light jacket, raincoat, swimsuit, or extra layers for cooler mornings.
Personal Health Items: Please bring any necessary personal items, such as medication, inhalers, or EpiPens, along with instructions for use if applicable. Parents and guardians should inform Queer Camp leadership regarding specific medical needs to ensure appropriate camper care; our trained Camp Nurse will work with parents/guardians to manage medications and prioritize camper health and safety.

How are accommodations handled at camp

Gender-Inclusive Facilities: Restroom facilities are gender-inclusive or private to accommodate the diverse gender identities of campers.
Respect for Pronouns and Chosen Names: Queer Camp encourages campers and staff to share their chosen names and pronouns on name tags and to use them correctly.
Qualified Kitchen Staff and Alternative Food Options: The registration process includes collecting dietary information about campers, including allergies, intolerances, and religious dietary restrictions. Kitchen staff, trained in food safety and knowledgeable about dietary restrictions, make alternative meal options or substitutions available.
Structured Activities/Flexible Participation: The Queer Camp schedule includes structured activities and routines to provide predictability and support for campers who benefit from clear expectations and routines. It also allows flexibility in participation requirements for camp activities, allowing neurodivergent campers to opt out or modify activities to accommodate their sensory sensitivities or social preferences.

What kind of support systems are in place for campers who may need assistance or guidance

Queer Camp utilizes trained and accredited therapists to provide professional support to campers. Every day of camp begins with a support group to facilitate healthy community connections, and campers are encouraged to seek out volunteers and/or therapists at any time if they need assistance, guidance, or support.

What is Queer Camp's policy on bullying and harassment

Camper safety and comfort is our top priority. Queer Camp employs a zero-tolerance bullying and harassment policy. Any camper who feels they are being targeted or mistreated is encouraged to report their experience to camp leadership. Upon receiving a report of bullying or harassment, camp leadership will investigate, take corrective actions, and remove the offending party from Queer Camp if necessary.

How is privacy and confidentiality maintained at camp

Camper information is stored on a private, secure internet platform only available to Queer Camp leadership. Camper information may be shared with Queer Camp staff and volunteers on a need-to-know basis but is never shared with anyone else. All volunteers receive privacy & confidentiality policy and procedure training, including training regarding camp protocol limiting camper photographs to ensure camper privacy. Out of respect and concern for the privacy and safety of our campers and their families, Queer Camp will never publicly share photos of our campers.