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Open to teens ages 13 - 17 with T1D.
3-Tier Pricing: You may elect the price that is most appropriate for your family. Your selection will have no impact on your teen's experience.
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Teen Camp Life
Teen Camp Activities
While at Teen Camp, we focus on allowing our campers to connect with one another in a laid back, less programmed way. Some activities that may take place at Teen Camp include:
- Cooking competitions
- Discussion sessions
- Hang time
- Diabetes education
- Gaga ball
- Campfire
Teen Camp Facilities
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Camp Hendon partners with seasoned camp professionals by renting camp locations that provide high quality programs and activities.
Campers sleep on bunk-beds in cabins. Restrooms are located within the cabin. Meals are served in a state of the art dining hall where the kitchen staff are all trained and certified professionals. Special attention to the diabetic and allergy needs of our campers is always a priority. All of our camp programs are nut-free. Our Teen Camp facility and program partner is Camp Horsin' Around in Perryville, KY. Camp Horsin' Around is located in central Kentucky. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
We are here to answer your questions! Please click the + next to each FAQ to expand the menu and view more. If you have additional questions, contact Lori O'Bryant at [email protected] or 502-544-1954.
Camper Application FAQ
How old does my child have to be to attend teen camp?
Teens with diabetes ages 13-17 are eligible to participate in Camp Hendon's teen camp.
How do I register a camper?
You can register online in a "phased application" process.
Do I have to register my child online?
No. If you do not wish to register online please do one of the following:
How do you decide who to accept?
Campers are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis with a completed application. Your child will be admitted if we still have room and there are no significant behavioral or medical factors that would preclude acceptance. Campers do not have to reside in Kentucky to attend Camp Hendon.
What will my camper learn?
At Teen Camp, we focus on the special changes and challenges taking place during this phase of life. Some of the topics covered at Teen Camp include:
Teens with diabetes ages 13-17 are eligible to participate in Camp Hendon's teen camp.
How do I register a camper?
You can register online in a "phased application" process.
- The first step is to submit an initial application and deposit.
- The second step is to then log into your account and complete the required forms*.
Do I have to register my child online?
No. If you do not wish to register online please do one of the following:
- call: 502-544-1954
- e-mail: [email protected]
- or write to: Camp Hendon, 1640 Lyndon Farm Court, Suite 108, Louisville, KY 40223
How do you decide who to accept?
Campers are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis with a completed application. Your child will be admitted if we still have room and there are no significant behavioral or medical factors that would preclude acceptance. Campers do not have to reside in Kentucky to attend Camp Hendon.
What will my camper learn?
At Teen Camp, we focus on the special changes and challenges taking place during this phase of life. Some of the topics covered at Teen Camp include:
- Age-appropriate Diabetes Education
- Driving with T1D
- Handling newfound independence
- College/school considerations
- Less oversight by parents
- Social Support
- Drinking and drugs
- Dating and personal relationships
- Diabetes Problem Solving
- Confidence & Self-Esteem by Meeting Others with Diabetes
- Form Meaningful Relationships
- Feel a Sense of Belonging, Campers Learn They Are Not Alone
- Acceptance
Camp Life FAQ
Will my teen be safe at camp?
Yes! We respect it may be difficult to leave a child with diabetes into the care of others, but campers are well supervised at camp. The Teen Camp is staffed with counselors and dedicated medical staff that will be with your teen 24/7. At all times we have ample medical staff at the camp which may include RNs, RDs, MDs, and others.
Camp Hendon follows the American Camp Association’s operating standards, and we are ACA Accredited.
What happens if my teen is homesick?
Homesickness is a natural feeling for many campers as they adjust to being away from home. With great care, the counselors will do everything possible to determine the cause of the homesickness, and to address the issues identified.
Every attempt will be made to encourage the camper to have a good time and to feel needed and important. If a call is warranted, you and the director will discuss options before you speak with the child. If you determine the best option is to pick up your child, we will help you in that process by having the camper ready. We are not able to offer refunds for campers who leave due to homesickness.
Camp Hendon has occasionally had campers leave due to homesickness, but more often than not, seasoned staff members are able to work with the camper to be more engaged in the activities of camp... and soon the homesickness fades away.
What about food & meals?
Healthy eating is the overall goal for nutrition at Camp Hendon. We try to eliminate the myth that diabetes means “not eating sugar,” but instead means balancing carbohydrates, protein, and fat. All meals and snacks are based on carbohydrate (CHO) counting. This system may be used for children on a constant CHO meal plan or on CHO counting with insulin adjustment. At camp, the Dietetic Director sets up the meal plan that is adequate in calories and nutrients for the energy level while at camp.
Do you carb count?
Yes, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator supervises all food preparation and provide guidance and assistance in carb counting. Carbohydrate choices and grams of carbohydrate are listed for all meals and counted as appropriate for every camper’s individual need.
What if camper has other special food requirements?
Any food allergies or special needs should be noted during the application process. The Dietetic Director will communicate with the family if needed for follow-up questions. Allergies will be noted with all medical and non-medical staff.
Yes! We respect it may be difficult to leave a child with diabetes into the care of others, but campers are well supervised at camp. The Teen Camp is staffed with counselors and dedicated medical staff that will be with your teen 24/7. At all times we have ample medical staff at the camp which may include RNs, RDs, MDs, and others.
Camp Hendon follows the American Camp Association’s operating standards, and we are ACA Accredited.
What happens if my teen is homesick?
Homesickness is a natural feeling for many campers as they adjust to being away from home. With great care, the counselors will do everything possible to determine the cause of the homesickness, and to address the issues identified.
Every attempt will be made to encourage the camper to have a good time and to feel needed and important. If a call is warranted, you and the director will discuss options before you speak with the child. If you determine the best option is to pick up your child, we will help you in that process by having the camper ready. We are not able to offer refunds for campers who leave due to homesickness.
Camp Hendon has occasionally had campers leave due to homesickness, but more often than not, seasoned staff members are able to work with the camper to be more engaged in the activities of camp... and soon the homesickness fades away.
What about food & meals?
Healthy eating is the overall goal for nutrition at Camp Hendon. We try to eliminate the myth that diabetes means “not eating sugar,” but instead means balancing carbohydrates, protein, and fat. All meals and snacks are based on carbohydrate (CHO) counting. This system may be used for children on a constant CHO meal plan or on CHO counting with insulin adjustment. At camp, the Dietetic Director sets up the meal plan that is adequate in calories and nutrients for the energy level while at camp.
Do you carb count?
Yes, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator supervises all food preparation and provide guidance and assistance in carb counting. Carbohydrate choices and grams of carbohydrate are listed for all meals and counted as appropriate for every camper’s individual need.
What if camper has other special food requirements?
Any food allergies or special needs should be noted during the application process. The Dietetic Director will communicate with the family if needed for follow-up questions. Allergies will be noted with all medical and non-medical staff.
- Replacement food will be provided for any child with food allergies
- We operate a nut-free camp and kitchen
- We tastefully and creatively accommodate gluten allergies
Medical FAQ
What medical supplies should I bring?
Given the brief nature of Teen Camp, we ask that campers bring all insulin and pump supplies. Camp Hendon will have available lancets, meters, test strips, glucagon, and low treatments.
Please bring:
How are blood glucose levels monitored at camp?
All campers check blood glucose levels before every meal and bedtime and at any time a camper does not feel well or would like to be checked we will test them. Additionally, all staff members are well trained to observe for signs of hypo/hyperglycemia.
Bedtime testing & 2:00 a.m. rounds
Our protocols mandate that campers below a certain blood sugar level at bedtime checks are to be tested again on our 2:00 a.m. rounds, when all campers are checked for signs of lows. Staff also check blood glucose levels before bed and 2:00 a.m. Staff is available 24/7 to check blood sugar levels at other times during the night and during all activities through out the day.
Blood sugar goals at camp
Our goal is a safe, healthy, and fun environment where we can provide meaningful opportunities for education and empowered self-management discussions. Given a shifting schedule and changes in activity levels, variations in typical blood sugar levels should be expected.
Who oversees the diabetes management of campers?
Camp Hendon follows the guidance of a Medical Advisory Committee, which includes our Medical Director and other licensed diabetes care providers. At Teen Camp, a licensed medical professional such a Nurse Practitioner or Pediatric Endocrinologist will oversee all medical care, with the support of other medical staff.
What are the vaccination requirements?
All those who are attending Camp Hendon’s programs are required to be adequately immunized against
preventable diseases, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Advisory
Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Exemptions will only be granted for bona fide medical reasons. Vaccination against COVID-19 is strongly recommended. View Camp Hendon's full Immunization Policy here.
Given the brief nature of Teen Camp, we ask that campers bring all insulin and pump supplies. Camp Hendon will have available lancets, meters, test strips, glucagon, and low treatments.
Please bring:
- insulin/pens/syringes
- insulin pump supplies (reservoirs, infusion sets, special injection aids, etc.)
- your camper’s prescription medications in original containers
- any special medical equipment for non-diabetes related conditions
How are blood glucose levels monitored at camp?
All campers check blood glucose levels before every meal and bedtime and at any time a camper does not feel well or would like to be checked we will test them. Additionally, all staff members are well trained to observe for signs of hypo/hyperglycemia.
Bedtime testing & 2:00 a.m. rounds
Our protocols mandate that campers below a certain blood sugar level at bedtime checks are to be tested again on our 2:00 a.m. rounds, when all campers are checked for signs of lows. Staff also check blood glucose levels before bed and 2:00 a.m. Staff is available 24/7 to check blood sugar levels at other times during the night and during all activities through out the day.
Blood sugar goals at camp
Our goal is a safe, healthy, and fun environment where we can provide meaningful opportunities for education and empowered self-management discussions. Given a shifting schedule and changes in activity levels, variations in typical blood sugar levels should be expected.
Who oversees the diabetes management of campers?
Camp Hendon follows the guidance of a Medical Advisory Committee, which includes our Medical Director and other licensed diabetes care providers. At Teen Camp, a licensed medical professional such a Nurse Practitioner or Pediatric Endocrinologist will oversee all medical care, with the support of other medical staff.
What are the vaccination requirements?
All those who are attending Camp Hendon’s programs are required to be adequately immunized against
preventable diseases, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Advisory
Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Exemptions will only be granted for bona fide medical reasons. Vaccination against COVID-19 is strongly recommended. View Camp Hendon's full Immunization Policy here.
Financial Faq
How much does camp cost?
Teen Camp offers a 3-tier pricing structure. Families may participate in any tier of their choosing. The tier selected will have no impact on the camper's experience. Camp Hendon also provides financial assistance to those families who may need additional support. We never want finances to keep a teen from attending camp.
The camp fee helps to provides for:
As a primarily volunteer organization, we accept the generosity of individuals, families, parents, and companies in any amount to help defray the costs of the camp. We are perpetually raising money so camp can exist.
We encourage all families that can support camp to do so through tax-deductible donations to Camp Hendon. Please consider supporting our great cause by making a donation.
Is there financial assistance?
YES! Camp Hendon strives to provide the camp experience regardless of financial ability. We have never turned away a camper for financial reasons. We fundraise year-round to offer assistance and camperships. There is a need-based application process for partial and full assistance packages. We also consider extenuating financial and family circumstances when considering financial aid applications. Please do not let finances be the reason you do not send your child to camp!
For questions regarding financial aid, please contact Lori O'Bryant at [email protected] or 502-544-1954.
Teen Camp offers a 3-tier pricing structure. Families may participate in any tier of their choosing. The tier selected will have no impact on the camper's experience. Camp Hendon also provides financial assistance to those families who may need additional support. We never want finances to keep a teen from attending camp.
- Tier 1: $110/camper
A subsidized price thanks to donations and fundraising - Tier 2: $130/camper
Camp Hendon's actual cost to provide Teen Camp - Tier 3: $150/camper
Pay it forward! This tier is a special opportunity for families to support campers participating in Tier 1.
The camp fee helps to provides for:
- Facility rental
- Meals and snacks
- Low treatments
- All activities and programming
- Insurance
As a primarily volunteer organization, we accept the generosity of individuals, families, parents, and companies in any amount to help defray the costs of the camp. We are perpetually raising money so camp can exist.
We encourage all families that can support camp to do so through tax-deductible donations to Camp Hendon. Please consider supporting our great cause by making a donation.
Is there financial assistance?
YES! Camp Hendon strives to provide the camp experience regardless of financial ability. We have never turned away a camper for financial reasons. We fundraise year-round to offer assistance and camperships. There is a need-based application process for partial and full assistance packages. We also consider extenuating financial and family circumstances when considering financial aid applications. Please do not let finances be the reason you do not send your child to camp!
For questions regarding financial aid, please contact Lori O'Bryant at [email protected] or 502-544-1954.
Top 10 Most Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost? What if I can't afford to send my child to camp?
Camp Hendon offers 3-tier pricing for our Teen Retreat Weekend. Please view the "Financial FAQ" for specific details.
Financial aid is available! Camp Hendon has never turned a child away for financial reasons, and we receive support from the Helmsley Charitable Trust to be used specifically for camperships. If you have any financial concerns, please contact us! We will make every effort to ensure your child is able to come to camp. We do not receive any funding from the American Diabetes Association or JDRF. You can make a tax-deductible donation here: www.camphendon.org/donate
2. What are the vaccination requirements?
All those who are attending Camp Hendon’s programs are required to be adequately immunized against
preventable diseases, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Advisory
Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Exemptions will only be granted for bona fide medical or
religious reasons. Vaccination against COVID-19 is strongly recommended. View Camp Hendon's full Immunization Policy here.
3. My child is on a CGM/Dexcom, can he/she bring their cellphone to camp?
Yes! At Teen Camp, we allow our campers to bring their cell phones regardless of whether they have a CGM or not. We want to give our teens more flexibility and trust, and in turn we ask that they use their phones responsibly during designated times. If cell phones become a distraction and interfere with campers having a meaningful Teen Camp experience, we may choose to take the phone until check-out. They will still be able to use the phone as a CGM receiver if needed.
4. Can siblings or friends without diabetes attend Teen Camp?
At this time we are not allowing non-diabetic friends or siblings attend Teen Camp. This may be a program we offer in the future.
5. What if my camper gets homesick?
Homesickness is very common, and completely normal! It is important to recognize this upfront, and have a conversation with your teen before they arrive at camp. Feelings of homesickness will likely occur, and that is okay. Remind your camper (and we will too) that they are not the only one feeling this way and the best thing to do is try their best to have fun and participate in activities. Our staff is fantastic at easing campers’ fears and helping them have a great time at camp, and we will make every effort to give your camper the best experience possible.
6. Can my camper call home, or can I call them?
While we do not prohibit phone calls to/from home, we STRONGLY encourage parents to disconnect for the weekend and allow their camper to have the best Teen Camp experience possible. Our goal is for the camper to get a truly unique and special experience at camp, and that means immersing them in daily activities with their peers. Even though a phone call might seem like a good way to calm your teen's concerns, it typically has the opposite effect and only increases any anxiety or homesickness they are feeling.
7. Can you accommodate food allergies?
Yes! Food allergies and sensitivities are very common. All camp properties are nut-free, and we work with our dietetic team to provide appropriate substitutions for all other allergies and sensitivities.
8. When is check-in/check-out.
Your camper will check in on Friday evening and check out on Sunday before lunch. Specific times will be provided to you in the weeks leading up to camp, so please pay attention to your email! Also take special note of the time zones – Teen Camp is in Eastern time. We also ask that you PLEASE try to adhere to the times provided to you. If you arrive too early to check-in or check-out, you will be asked to remain in your car until the appropriate time. Arriving too late also creates a significant challenge to our staff, and your child may feel singled out if they are the only one left to check-in or check-out.
9. What do we need to pack?
This is a great question, and we are currently developing a document specifically for Teen Weekend. Check back soon!
10. Where is camp located?
The Camp Hendon office is located in Louisville. We do not own any property, so we rent the facilities where our programs are held. Teen Camp is held in central Kentucky at Camp Horsin' Around in Perryville.
Camp Hendon offers 3-tier pricing for our Teen Retreat Weekend. Please view the "Financial FAQ" for specific details.
Financial aid is available! Camp Hendon has never turned a child away for financial reasons, and we receive support from the Helmsley Charitable Trust to be used specifically for camperships. If you have any financial concerns, please contact us! We will make every effort to ensure your child is able to come to camp. We do not receive any funding from the American Diabetes Association or JDRF. You can make a tax-deductible donation here: www.camphendon.org/donate
2. What are the vaccination requirements?
All those who are attending Camp Hendon’s programs are required to be adequately immunized against
preventable diseases, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Advisory
Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Exemptions will only be granted for bona fide medical or
religious reasons. Vaccination against COVID-19 is strongly recommended. View Camp Hendon's full Immunization Policy here.
3. My child is on a CGM/Dexcom, can he/she bring their cellphone to camp?
Yes! At Teen Camp, we allow our campers to bring their cell phones regardless of whether they have a CGM or not. We want to give our teens more flexibility and trust, and in turn we ask that they use their phones responsibly during designated times. If cell phones become a distraction and interfere with campers having a meaningful Teen Camp experience, we may choose to take the phone until check-out. They will still be able to use the phone as a CGM receiver if needed.
4. Can siblings or friends without diabetes attend Teen Camp?
At this time we are not allowing non-diabetic friends or siblings attend Teen Camp. This may be a program we offer in the future.
5. What if my camper gets homesick?
Homesickness is very common, and completely normal! It is important to recognize this upfront, and have a conversation with your teen before they arrive at camp. Feelings of homesickness will likely occur, and that is okay. Remind your camper (and we will too) that they are not the only one feeling this way and the best thing to do is try their best to have fun and participate in activities. Our staff is fantastic at easing campers’ fears and helping them have a great time at camp, and we will make every effort to give your camper the best experience possible.
6. Can my camper call home, or can I call them?
While we do not prohibit phone calls to/from home, we STRONGLY encourage parents to disconnect for the weekend and allow their camper to have the best Teen Camp experience possible. Our goal is for the camper to get a truly unique and special experience at camp, and that means immersing them in daily activities with their peers. Even though a phone call might seem like a good way to calm your teen's concerns, it typically has the opposite effect and only increases any anxiety or homesickness they are feeling.
7. Can you accommodate food allergies?
Yes! Food allergies and sensitivities are very common. All camp properties are nut-free, and we work with our dietetic team to provide appropriate substitutions for all other allergies and sensitivities.
8. When is check-in/check-out.
Your camper will check in on Friday evening and check out on Sunday before lunch. Specific times will be provided to you in the weeks leading up to camp, so please pay attention to your email! Also take special note of the time zones – Teen Camp is in Eastern time. We also ask that you PLEASE try to adhere to the times provided to you. If you arrive too early to check-in or check-out, you will be asked to remain in your car until the appropriate time. Arriving too late also creates a significant challenge to our staff, and your child may feel singled out if they are the only one left to check-in or check-out.
9. What do we need to pack?
This is a great question, and we are currently developing a document specifically for Teen Weekend. Check back soon!
10. Where is camp located?
The Camp Hendon office is located in Louisville. We do not own any property, so we rent the facilities where our programs are held. Teen Camp is held in central Kentucky at Camp Horsin' Around in Perryville.
Teens with Type 1 Diabetes ages 13 - 17 can register online, or request a paper application by contacting Lori O'Bryant at [email protected] or 502-544-1954.
