These Summer Camps Are Made for LGBTQ+ Youth to Thrive
By Judy Bokao
Most of us would argue that summer is the best time of the year. It is the time when most students get to relax and have fun. They get to try new hobbies and explore new interests. Generally, summer is a perfect time and a chance to create many happy, fun and nostalgic memories. One of the best places to make these memories is summer camp.
Summer camps are not only fun but they equip the youngsters with life skills and build their creativity. Here are some summer camps to check out.
Camp Brave Trails
Ages: 12–18 years old
This is one of the biggest residential summer camps for LGBTQ+ youth in California. Camp Brave Trails has two locations with the other situated in Maryland. The camp caters to both out-of-state and international campers. They are dedicated to creating a space where queer youth can find their passion, place and people. This is why they have genderless cabins and bathrooms.
Their program is fashioned to make sure that the campers get the quintessential aspects of summer camp. This includes fun activities such as archery, campfires, hiking, arts & crafts, drag classes, dance lessons, stargazing and many more. One of the amazing facts about Camp Brave Trails is that they are accredited by the American Camp Association and offer financial assistance to those in need.
Honestly, there are many reasons to love, for one they are big on pronouns and acceptance. They encourage exploration and expression and one is not required to explain their identity. This creates a safe environment for the kids to simply be who they are.
Their programs are also designed to combat some of the issues that LGBTQ+ youth might face such as dysphoria. They make sure that everyone feels comfortable in activities such as swimming by having rules like everyone must wear a top and bottom in the pool.
Their leadership program is enviable as the youths get to meet mentors, soak in new leadership tools and build their confidence through the sessions. Literally, the motto for the leadership program is, “ Your Voice Matters.”
They also have amazing LGBTQ +staff who can understand and relate to the things these teens are going through. They have been there themselves and can give a pearl or two of wisdom to the campers.
Camp Brave Trails is also big on camp spirit and they do it in style, with rainbows, pride flags and unicorns in every corner. Everyone is allowed to wear what they want be it a simple t-shirt or a full drag outfit. They also want the teens to be fully present and so they are an electronics-free camp.
Last but not least, they infuse LGBTQ+ education into their programs. This is crucial given the times we are living in with anti-LGBTQ+ bills being passed almost every day trying to control what LGBTQ+ information is taught at school. The teens getting to learn about LGBTQ+ history is important, especially in creating a sense of pride.
Camp Quinebarge
Ages: 6–16 years old
Camp Quinebarge is situated in Moultonborough, New Hampshire. They welcome all campers and staff regardless of their gender identity or expression. The camp has made every effort to be intentionally inclusive community. Even though they don’t have gender-neutral housing, they allow the campers and staff to choose a cabin that best fits their gender identity in everyday life. Some of the activities include art and craft, swimming, boating, archery, horseback riding and fencing. Their hope is that the children return home feeling independent, confident and with friendships that will last a lifetime.
Camp Highlight
AGES: 8–15 year-olds
Camp Highlight is nestled in Pennsylvania and they are focused on creating nostalgic memories for children of LGBTQ families. However, they still warmly welcome all youths to connect, grow, and play! They have a range of activities that kids and parents can enjoy together. Some of these include wall climbing, talent shows and many more. Through the activities, they try to create a deeper bond between the family and also build a support network of allies. They also offer financial help for those who can’t afford summer camp.
The Naming Project
AGES: 13–18 year-olds
The Naming Project is a summer camp that caters to Christian LGBTQ+ youths. It is located at Bay Lake Camp, Deerwood, Minnesota. The camp is open to campers of any sexual orientation or gender identity or expression. The main goal of the camp is to allow these queer youths to understand sexuality and gender in terms of their own spiritual journey. The activities of the camp are centred on letting the campers find peace within nature and personal quiet time. They also have an array of fun activities such as games, campfire, swimming, art and crafts and many more.
About the Author:
Judy Bokao was born in Ethiopia but relocated to Nairobi two years ago. She is passionate about everyone having equal rights and is also big on conservation and speaking up for our planet. Judy loves reading and photography and is just a free-spirited young lady trying to grow into a woman her mom can be proud of.
