Heart Camps
“In September 2013, the Congenital Heart Defects Families Association revitalized Camp Systole in Kansas City, a camp designed for children with congenital heart defects. Camp Systole offers a secure space for these kids to enjoy the camping experience. Volunteer doctors and nurses attend to the children’s medical needs while also engaging in activities like scavenger hunts and swimming. This setting allows children to bond with their healthcare providers and connect with peers facing similar challenges.
The Congenital Heart Defects Families Association provides Camp Systole at no cost to attending children, funded entirely by donations to the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which is operated by volunteers. For details on camp registration for campers or volunteers, please email: [email protected].”
The Summer 2026 Dates posted on the website are as followed: Overnight Camp: June 17-20, 2025
Overnight Camp: June 17-20, 2025
Day/Sib Camp: June 20, 2025
More information can be found at their website linked here: https://www.chdfamilies.org/camp-systole
“University of Maryland Children’s Hospital offers Upbeat Hearts Camp, a summer camp created for children with congenital heart conditions.
The overnight summer camp held is open to children ages 6 – 17 with a parent and or guardian, offers rock climbing, archery and water activities, combined with educational sessions on heart health topics to help families learn, grow and have fun.
At Upbeat Hearts Camp, the well-being of our campers is top priority. Parents can rest assured knowing their children are in good hands with qualified medical staff, including nurses and a physician on-site at all times. Each camper is paired with a camp counselor, ensuring they receive personalized support throughout camp.”
The Summer 2026 Dates are posted on the website as follows:
July 26 – 29, 2026
Mar-Lu-Ridge Camp & Retreat Center
More information can be found at their website linked here: https://www.umms.org/childrens/health-services/pediatric-heart/cardiology/congenital-heart-disease/upbeat-hearts-camp
“Every year, Boston Children’s Hospital patients who have pacemakers or implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) come together for a heart-healthy camp weekend on Cape Cod (Keeping the Beat Retreat). Every activity, schedule choice, and safety measure is designed around each child’s medical needs so they can focus on exploring nature and laughing with new friends.”
The Summer 2026 Dates are set to happen on a not-yet-announced weekend in September at Camp Burgess & Hayward in Sandwich.
More information can be found at their website linked here: https://www.childrenshospital.org/services/electrophysiology/keeping-beat-retreat
“Camp del Corazon provides year-round opportunities for children living with the challenges of heart disease. We provide a free overnight summer camp for children ages 7-17 as well as programs that offer growth, education and support for CHD children, young adults, and their families.”
The Summer 2026 Dates are posted on the website as follows:
Session 1: August 13-17
Session 2: August 17-21
Session 3: August 21-25
More information can be found on their website linked here: https://www.campdelcorazon.org
“Melwood and Children’s National Hospital have created an unforgettable camp experience by uniting the deep-rooted dedication of the Melwood team with the unmatched medical expertise and care of the Children’s National team. Camp Accomplish offers an extraordinary, unique, and inclusive summer camp for kids and teens with disabilities and chronic health conditions.
Here, we’re all able to grow. “
The Summer 2026 Dates are posted on the website as follows:
July 19-24, 2026
Melwood Recreation Center
More information can be found at their website linked here: https://campaccomplish.org