Fun and connection for the whole family.
It can feel hard to maintain a sense of normalcy or feel care-free when a child has cancer. Family Camp Weekends are designed to remind us that there’s still a place for fun within the family and with others having similar experiences. When the time feels right for your family, a short and joyful camp experience awaits, one that may just become a favorite new tradition.
Family Camp volunteers are the same incredible people who staff our summer camp programs. Attending family camp lets parents meet and spend quality time with the same volunteers we trust to care for our patient campers each summer.
Why Family Camp Weekends?
Families said:
Upcoming Family Camp Weekends
Jamie Ekstrom, M.Ed | Program Director
Jamie first attended Camp Sunshine as a teen camper and now returns as member of our team. He has experience in camp management, working at our partner camp, Camp Twin Lakes, prior to joining our staff.
Information
Application Process
- Family Camp is available to families with a patient camper from age 0-18.
- Applications for campers are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis with precedent given to new campers or those currently on therapy.
- If you have questions about Summer Camp, please contact our Camp Director at 404-325-7979.
- CampSite – We use CampSite for all Overnight Camp programs. When you click register, you’ll be directed to CampSite to create a login. Please note: if your child has already attended a Camp Sunshine program, you will need to create a separate account for your family to register for Family Camp.
Location and Activities
- All Camp Sunshine overnight camping programs take place at Camp Twin Lakes–Rutledge East, a fully accessible facility 50 miles east of Atlanta.
- Surrounded by peaceful countryside, it features air-conditioned cabins and a welcoming space where campers and families can thrive.
- Campers enjoy classic camp activities like swimming, archery, horseback riding, zip lining, arts & crafts, fishing, canoeing, and more.
Volunteers and Medical Staff
- Family Camp volunteers are the same incredible people who staff our summer camp programs. Attending family camp helps parents to meet and spend quality time with the same volunteers we trust to care for our patient campers each summer.
- The 24-hour on-site medical facility is equipped to provide most of the treatments or medical attention specific to childhood cancer. While you will be in charge of your child’s treatment at family camp, our medical team is there in case any support is needed while at camp.
For Parents / Guardians
BEFORE FAMILY CAMP:
- Bring a positive and open attitude about the camp experience.
- Talk with your family about what to expect and encourage everyone to try new activities.
- Discuss any questions, concerns, or needs with Camp Sunshine staff before arriving.
- Encourage siblings to get involved and make the most of their time at camp, too.
- Take some time to talk about what each family member is most looking forward to at camp.
DURING FAMILY CAMP:
- Encourage your children (and yourselves) to meet other campers and families and build new friendships.
- Make time to enjoy activities together as a family while also allowing each family member space to have their own camp experience.
- Ask Camp Sunshine staff or volunteers for support if your family has questions or needs anything during the weekend.
- Take time to slow down, have fun, and enjoy making memories together!
A Typical Day at Camp
Friday
- Family Arrival & Activity Sign-up
- Dinner
- Opening Ceremony & S’mores
Saturday
- Early Morning Fishing & Parent Coffee Chat
- Breakfast
- Activity 1 – You will sign-up for one of several options each period
- Activity 2
- Activity 3
- Lunch
- Mom to Mom Group Chat
- Rest Hour
- Camp Store
- Parent Zip
- Activity 4
- 2-5 YO Activity – Play-doh World + Playground
- 6-12 YO Activity – Slime or Gaga
- Parent Only Time
- Teen Track – Zip or Slime
- Activity 5
- Activity 6
- Dinner
- Bubble Fun Time – Little Kids Evening Program
- Family Time
- Evening Program
- Family Game Night
Sunday
- Breakfast
- Dad Time
- Closing Ceremony
- Activity 7 (optional if you need to leave)
- Family Final Checkout
”Family Camp always brings us closer together. It’s a great way to leave your troubles behind and connect with other families.
Grateful Parent




