ENROLL
Camp Lilac is a week-long, overnight summer camp specifically for trans and gender diverse youth ages 13-17. Our program is designed so that campers emerge with an increased sense of confidence in their identities, and a strong community of peers and supporters.
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Since 2017, we have hosted hundreds of youth in Ohio and beyond for unforgettable and meaningful summer experiences.
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18 or older? See our Staff Opportunities.
Where is Camp Lilac?
Both camp sessions will take place at our West Central Ohio location, about an hour outside of Columbus. The exact location is shared following acceptance to camp.
Our site's hundreds of acres include incredible biodiversity, two ponds, miles of trails, and much more to explore.
Application Steps
Complete an application
A camper and their caregiver will each need to complete sections. Applications are processed according to completion date, so be sure to check all sections.
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Complete an interview
Meet a staff member to discuss your needs at camp, and to ask any questions.
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Await your acceptance letter
A spot at camp is not confirmed until this is sent.
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Complete all paperwork
This includes health forms, liability waiver, and a photo release.
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Pay tuition
We never want finances to be a barrier to camp. Financial aid is available.
Frequently
Asked Questions
How much does camp cost?
Tuition is $950 for a 1-week session. A non-refundable $50 application fee is due at the time of application. If tuition cost is a barrier for you and your camper, financial aid is available. Please see here, and contact finance@camplilac.org with questions.
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Can campers attend both sessions?
Campers may register to attend one session only. This policy ensures the maximum number of youth can have the Camp Lilac experience, as the number of applicants far exceeds our available spaces each year. We hope to offer multi-week programming in future years.
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Does Ohio legislation regarding trans youth impact Camp Lilac?
The recent passage of Ohio's HB 68, restricting gender affirming care and participation in sports for trans minors, will not affect our ability to host our full camp program as planned including the administration of prescribed gender affirming medication. Past campers, we thank you for your role in protecting the confidentiality and safety of our campers by keeping our location private.
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What are the sleeping arrangements like?
Campers stay in open air cabins, which have a foundation, roof, and bunk beds, with canvas walls that are rolled up in good weather for an open air experience. Cabin assignments are based on age. Each cabin will have 8-10 campers and 2-3 staff members.
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What does an average day at camp look like?
We have activities for everyone, from hiking, swimming, and canoeing, to playing D&D, board games, and learning ukulele, to embroidery, painting, and clay sculpting. Free time lets you hang out around camp, such as in our library or arts and crafts space, and our evening programs bring everyone together for a variety show, dance party, and more! Learn more about an average day at camp here.
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Who will be at camp?
About 75 campers ages 13-17 attend each week of Camp Lilac. Staff ages 18 and up, including cabin counselors, nurses, mental health support, and activity leaders, also attend. All campers and most staff are transgender or gender diverse, an umbrella term inclusive of identities outside of the gender binary, such as nonbinary, genderfluid, and gender nonconforming.
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Can campers bring their phones?
Camp is a place to disconnect from technology, and focus on building relationships with each other and nature. Campers may bring phones, but will be asked to turn them in at the start of camp.
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Can parents or caregivers volunteer for Camp Lilac?
In order to allow campers the freedom to socialize, grow, and express themselves in the camp environment, we do not allow caregivers to volunteer during the same session as their camper. Caregivers are welcome to volunteer during the session their camper is not attending. Please contact us at staff@camplilac.org if you are a caregiver interested in volunteering.
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What COVID-19 precautions are being taken?
All campers and staff must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, or have a valid medical exemption. Campers and staff will be asked to complete COVID-19 rapid testing in the days leading up to arrival.
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Is Camp Lilac religiously affiliated?
While we honor all religions practiced by members of our camp community, we are not connected with any religion as an organization. We are happy to provide space and time for observance of any ritual by any member of the camp community.