Parent / Guardian

Road to Camp TLC

Follow these steps to get ready for Camp TLC.

1. Read important info — eligibility, dates, and health policies.
2. Review documents — packing list and health requirements.
3. Complete the application — online when registration opens.
4. Watch for acceptance — emails go out the first week of May.

Important info

• Camper packing list
• Health policy & immunization requirements
• Camper eligibility

Camp dates

June 6, 2027 – June 11, 2027

Camper ages

Ages 8–17 as of June 1, 2027

Capacity

About 84 youth with Spina Bifida.

Application window

Applications open February 15, 2027 and close April 1, 2027.

Acceptance notification

First week of May

Registration fee

$50. Camp is grant-funded; each family is asked to contribute $50. Waivers available — no camper turned away for cost.

Apply

FAQ

Applying and eligibility

What ages are campers?

Campers must be ages 8–17 as of June 1 of the camp year. Teens 16–17 may join SQUAD or Mentor tracks — see teen programs.

How many campers attend?

About 84 youth with Spina Bifida each summer.

When can I apply?

Applications open February 15. Complete your application by April 1.

How does acceptance work?

Complete the online application when it opens. Our team reviews applications in the order they are finished. We email you if anything is missing. Acceptance packets go out the first week of May. If a spot is not available, we let you know by then as well.

Do we need medical insurance?

Insurance is not required to attend. Share insurance information on the application if you have it — it helps our medical team if care is needed at camp.

Can we apply if we live outside Texas?

Families in neighboring states may apply. Send a complete application and medical records. Open spots after the April 1 deadline are filled from the waitlist.

Can siblings or friends without Spina Bifida come as campers?

Camper spots are for youth with Spina Bifida. Qualified siblings or friends may apply as volunteers instead.

Cost, travel, and schedule

How much does camp cost?

Camp is grant-funded. Families are asked to contribute $50. Waivers are available — no camper is turned away for cost. The registration fee is separate from donations.

Where is camp?

We partner with Camp John Marc near Meridian, Texas. Campers travel by bus from Dallas (Scottish Rite Hospital for Children).

How long is camp?

Sunday through Friday. Check-in in Dallas Sunday morning (7–10am). Return Friday around 11am.

What does a typical day look like?

Mornings and afternoons include activities such as swimming, crafts, horses, and games. Meals are together in the dining hall. Evenings include cabin time and camp-wide programs. Every camper can pass on an activity — no one has to do everything.

Cabins, phones, and family contact

Where do campers sleep?

Each camper is assigned a cabin after acceptance. Cabins have twin beds, air conditioning, and shared bathrooms. About six to seven campers and three to four counselors share a cabin.

Can my camper bring a phone?

We encourage leaving phones at home when possible. Camp is a chance to connect with nature and new friends. If a phone comes to camp, we ask campers to skip calls, limit texting and games, and follow staff guidance.

Can I call or check on my camper during the week?

Your camper is cared for by counselors, nurses, and directors. We contact you if there is a concern. If you need an update, email directors — we respond when we can. Phone calls to campers often stir up homesickness for the whole cabin, so we avoid them during the week.

Can families visit during camp?

Camp is closed to visitors for safety. Only scheduled drop-off and pick-up in Dallas are allowed unless a director asks you to come.

Will counselors contact us before or after camp?

Counselors do not contact campers or families on their own before or after camp. That boundary protects everyone. Directors handle questions by email.

Health, food, and mobility

Are COVID vaccines required?

No. COVID vaccination is recommended but not required. Our medical team shares any testing steps before camp. See the full health policy.

What about food allergies or special diets?

Camp is nut-free. Tell us about allergies or dietary needs on the application. Camp John Marc kitchen staff can accommodate many diets when we have clear instructions.

What if my child uses a wheelchair or other equipment?

Many campers use mobility equipment. List devices and daily needs on the application. Our medical team and Camp John Marc staff plan support so your camper can join activities safely.

What should we pack?

Use the camper packing list. Label medical supplies and anything your camper uses every day.

Different family situations

What if my child is in foster care or lives with someone other than a parent?

Apply with the adult who can sign forms and share medical records. Our medical team reviews each application. You do not need to share private details on the public website — use the application when it opens.

What if our family is going through grief or big life changes?

Camp can still be a good fit. Note what helps your camper on the application so the medical team can plan. Camp staff offer support during the week — we are not a therapy program, and campers are never required to talk about hard topics in a group.

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