About Camp

Camp ICANDO

Park City, Utah

ADA Camp: A Lifelong Connection

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has been providing support and unforgettable experiences to children living with diabetes through our camps and family retreats since 1949. Each year, we host thousands of campers and their families across the country, offering a unique blend of adventure, education, mentorship, and fun.

Why ADA Camp?

  • Expert Care: Our camps adhere to the highest safety standards and are led by staff trained in ADA's Standards of Care in Diabetes.
  • Skill Development: Our programs equip children with essential diabetes management skills, including nutrition, exercise, emotional well-being, and glucose control, encouraging independence and confidence.
  • Social Connection: Camps provide a supportive environment for children to connect with peers, build friendships, and develop social skills.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience

Camp Staff Applications Open

ADA Camp offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children living with diabetes. Whether you're a licensed medical professional, student, or simply passionate about helping others, you'll be part of a team that empowers campers to learn independent diabetes management skills—all while having tons of fun! 

Apply Now

Camp ICANDO
Type: Day & Overnight
Dates: Day Camp: July 14–18, 2025 l Teen Overnight: July 15–18, 2025
Ages: 5–12 I 13–16
Location: Park City, Utah
Host Site: National Ability Center

Hosting campers for more than 50 years, Camp ICANDO is a day and overnight camp where campers enjoy paddle sports, arts and crafts, archery, hiking, indoor climbing, high ropes, and more!

ADA Camp is a lifeline for children with diabetes—develop the critical skills needed—thrive while managing their diabetes. Attending camp helps children develop social skills, self-respect, and life-long friendships. Campers can meet others just like them while encouraging independence, building self-confidence, and gaining an awareness of a healthy lifestyle through education, nutrition, exercise, glucose control and emotional well-being.

 

Program Type2025 DatesAgesFull PriceSponsored Price/CIT Price*
OvernightJuly 15 - 1813-16$850$425
DayJuly 14-185-12 $325
Counselor-in-Training (CIT) - day campJuly 14-1817 $175

*Financial Assistance Available. No child will ever be turned away from camp due to cost. If the camp fee is a roadblock for your family, the American Diabetes Association® offers financial assistance. Nearly half of our families receive financial assistance to cover part or the full cost of camp.

Flexible Pricing Options. We understand that every family's financial situation is unique, that's why we offer three pricing options.

  • Full Price. This is the true cost for a child to attend camp. Families who can pay the full amount may select this option.
  • ADA Sponsored Price. Thanks to the generous support of sponsors, partners, and donations, the ADA subsidizes 50% of the full camp price, offering this discounted rate. 
  • Financial Assistance. Additional assistance is available to qualifying families who cannot afford the discounted sponsored price.

Counselors-in-Training (CIT)
For teens ready to step up from camper to counselor, our CIT program offers training in leadership, character development, and youth-working skills. Financial assistance is available.

More details on pricing, financial assistance, and the CIT program are available in our support/FAQ section below.  

Camp Director: Becky Barnett
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Becky Barnett Camp Director

Becky Barnett hails from just outside of the Twin Cities in Minnesota and has been a camp director for the American Diabetes Association for the last 23 years. The highlight of her job is getting to work with all the campers, staff, and their families. She does admit that she also enjoys the camp songs, skits, and grilled cheese. A piece of advice she likes to give all families: I know sending your child to camp can be a difficult thing to do, especially when that child has diabetes. Let me assure you this is one of the greatest gifts you can give not only to your camper, but yourself! Regardless, if your child attends one of our day camps or our overnight programs my goal is to make sure every child has a SAFE and FUN experience during their time at camp. Whether it’s your first year or tenth year I like to remind families to take this time to RELAX. I know this may be hard (especially the first year) but take some time not to worry about 2 am blood sugars, questioning if you packed a snack or wondering if you have an extra vial of insulin along- just in case! Also, if you have other children take some time to give them some extra attention and go out for ice cream and don’t count any carbs!

Medical Director: Dr. Allison Smego 

Allison Smego, MD is an Assistant Professor of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes and the Medical Director of Primary Children’s Outpatient Diabetes. She loves diabetes camp because it gives children with diabetes a chance to meet other kids just like them, while having a fun and (relatively) care-free camp experience! When not at work or camp, you can find her trying to get outdoors with her 3 young children.

Work and Make a Difference at Camp
2025 Camp Applications Open January 15

Are you passionate about making a difference? Join our team and help create unforgettable experiences for children living with diabetes. Whether you’re a licensed medical professional, student, or just passionate about helping others, you’ll be part of a team that empowers campers to learn independent diabetes management skills—all while having a ton of fun!  

As a member of the camp team, you'll play a vital role in:

  • Creating a safe and inclusive environment
  • Supporting campers in learning independent diabetes management skills
  • Encouraging personal growth and confidence

Explore Volunteer Opportunities

  • Licensed medical professionals & students 
  • Non-medical positions

Note: Not all positions are available at each camp. You can find specific roles for your camp when applications open. The safety of our campers is our number one priority. All volunteers, staff and medical personnel must complete an application, interview, and background check before being hired. Must be 18 years or older to apply. 

ADA CAMPS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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Camp

National Sponsors