Utah's Camp for Kids Affected by Congenital Heart Disease
ABOUT US
Camp Hawkins was established in 2009 when several families of children with congenital heart defects recognized the need for their kids to know other children who have big scars and have faced similar challenges. And not just for the children with special hearts, but for their siblings as well who have to watch their brother or sister spend time in the hospital and deal with procedures and complications. What they all need is friends and fun.
Named for Dr. John A. Hawkins, one of Utah’s foremost pediatric heart surgeons, Camp Hawkins is dedicated to providing a summer camp to children whose heart helps them endure a most un-childlike childhood. For 4 days/3 nights, campers enjoy the experience of a lifetime.
The adults hovering about, including doctors and nurses, wear T-shirts instead of lab coats. They sport baseballs and water balloons instead of needles. Night brings a sky full of stars and possibilities, giggles and confidence instead of lonely hospital rooms and worries about tomorrow.
Camp Hawkins is run exclusively by volunteers, all who have a special place in their hearts for special hearts.
It takes lots volunteers each year to make Camp Hawkins a success.
Camp Hawkins Leadership Team
Heather Griffith - Camp Director
Aimee Hardy - Assistant Camp Director
Nicla Dolar - VP Arts and Crafts
Chesy Nichols - Medical Director
Jeremy Ferre - VP Finance
All about Camp
What is Camp Hawkins?
Camp Hawkins is a special camp for children ages 4-17 born with congenital heart defects (CHD) or acquired heart disease, and their siblings. It is attended by medical staff and amazing counselors who help the kids learn, have fun, and develop friendships with other kids who understand the challenges of CHD's.
Where is Camp Hawkins located?
Camp Hawkins is hosted at Camp Wapiti located in Tooele, Utah. The Camp Wapiti facility is owned and operated by the Elks Club of Utah. It has cabins with bunk beds and electricity, a main lodge with a kitchen and eating area, bathroom and shower facility close by, heated swimming pool, ropes course, playground, and a big grassy area for games and activities.
When is Camp Hawkins?
The next session of Camp Hawkins will be June 26-29, 2023.
Volunteers Needed
"I had so much fun volunteering at Camp Hawkins. As a counselor I thought I would be helping and teaching the kids, but they taught me so much. These kids have amazing hearts that truly touched me. It was an experience I will never forget."
- Collin Anderson