About Camp

Camp Needlepoint & Daypoint

Hudson, Wisconsin

Camp 2025

Summer Camp Registration Is Open

We can't wait to welcome your camper to an unforgettable camp experience. Our awesome camp team is gearing up to make sure every moment is safe, exciting, and jam-packed with awesome memories!

Young African American girl making bicep with cgm on arm camp registration open

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

ADA Camp Needlepoint & Daypoint
Type: Day & Overnight
Dates: Day: August 11–15, 2025 | Overnight: August 10–15, 2025 & August 17–22, 2025 | Mini-Session: August 17–20, 2025 l LDP: August 10–22, 2025
Ages: 8–17 I 5–9
Location: Hudson, Wisconsin
Host Site: YMCA Camp St. Croix
Transportation for Day Camp: Optional transportation is provided for day camp only. If you are interested in transportation you can sign up for it at the time of registration.  

Established in 1957, Camp Needlepoint is an overnight camp and Daypoint a day camp where campers enjoy swimming, kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, scaling climbing towers, participating in arts and crafts, and more!

ADA Camp is a lifeline for children living with diabetes to develop the critical skills needed to thrive while managing their diabetes. Attending camp helps children develop social skills, self-respect and life-long friendships. Campers 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*
Overnight - Session 1August 10-158-16$1,650$825
Overnight - Session 2August 17-228-16$1,650$825
Overnight Mini-SessionAugust 17-208-10 $425
DayAugust 11 - 155-9 $375
Leadership Development ProgramAugust 10-22 (2 weeks)16$3300$1650
Counselor-in-Training (CIT)August 10-15 & 
August 17-22		17 $425 per week

*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.

Transportation for Day Camp: Optional transportation is provided for day camp only.  If you are interested in transportation you can sign up for it at the time of registration. 

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.

Leadership Development Program (LDP)
Join us for an enriching two-week Leadership Development Program (LDP) designed to empower campers with confidence and essential leadership skills. Running from August 10 to August 22, including the weekend, this immersive experience allows participants to explore a wide range of camp activities while building camaraderie and teamwork.

Throughout the program, campers will engage in different experiences that highlight the various offerings of the camp, encouraging personal growth and leadership abilities. A key feature of the LDP is an exciting offsite camping trip, where participants will put their skills into practice in a supportive and adventurous environment.

This program is perfect for campers eager to enhance their leadership potential and make lasting memories

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

Camp Director: Becky Barnett
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 24 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!

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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National Sponsors