Camp Beyond the Scars

Fun. Safe. Supportive.

Camp Beyond the Scars

2,200+ Campers & Counting

Camp Beyond the Scars campers have experienced healing, encouragement, and fun at our burn survivor camp since 1987. As young burn survivors embark on a life-long healing journey, we equip them with the emotional and physical skills to live a full – and happy – life.

Camp FAQ

What is Camp Beyond the Scars?

Camp Beyond the Scars is a weeklong sleepaway summer camp for children between the ages of 8–17 who have experienced a burn injury. Our camp provides a relaxed social setting, which supports burn-injured children so they can have fun, learn coping skills, and build relationships with other burn survivors.

Under the supervision of staff and volunteers, campers get to do what kids do best – have fun! This camp also offers a one-of-a-kind supportive space where campers begin the lifelong conversation about how their burn injury has impacted their life.

Camp activities include swimming, basketball, volleyball, archery, crafts, and more!

When is Camp Beyond the Scars?

July 10-14, 2023.

Where is Camp Beyond the Scars?

Camp is located on Palomar Mountain at the Doane Valley Camp .

How much does Camp Beyond the Scars cost?

Our camp is free! Thanks to our generous donors, we provide this camp free of charge to burn survivors treated at UC San Diego Health Regional Burn Center and/or living in San Diego and Imperial Counties.

How does my camper get to Camp Beyond the Scars?

The Burn Institute provides free transportation to and from the camp facility from our parking lot (right off of Aero Drive in San Diego).

Who are the counselors and staff at Camp Beyond the Scars?

Our staff and volunteers consist of adult burn survivors, health-care professionals, mental-health professionals, and off-duty firefighters. Before camp starts, all staff must undergo a criminal background check, volunteer screening, and an interview, as well as a full day of training.

If my child has special needs, is camp the place for them?

Yes! We’ll work closely with you and your family to ensure we have the appropriate staff for your camper’s experience to be successful. Every year, we make sure we have the necessary medical staff, mental-health professionals, and supportive staff (e.g., ABA and ASL) to accommodate and nurture each camper.

Lit Program

Learn. Help. Grow.

Through our Leaders in Training (LIT) program, you learn from staff and counselors as you help at Camp Beyond the Scars – and participate in team building and life-skills training. You’ll also have the opportunity to make friends with other young adult burn survivors.

LIT is designed for burn survivors ages 18–20. So, if you’re in that age group and ready to grow, apply to assist our transformative camp! Application will open early 2020.

Become a Camp Volunteer.

You get to be a positive role model for our campers, help teach life skills, and create a safe, supportive, and fun camp environment. If you’re energetic, friendly, able to stay positive and patient in stressful situations, and are age 21+, the Burn Institute would love to hear more about you. Application now open!
Cbts Volunteer

From Our Happy Campers & Their Families

Hey Campers! Apply Today.

Every camper accepted to Camp Beyond the Scars attends at no charge. Applications will open March 1, 2022!