Summer has come to a close, and what a whirlwind summer it was! We’re thrilled to share some highlights in this end-of-summer recap, featuring the incredible experiences our campers had at Summer Adventure Camp, Camp Fireweed, and Camp K! 


Meet the Team 

First and foremost, we’re proud of our amazing staff who worked hard to make this summer unforgettable. Check out our staff photos and see those smiles! They make our programs shine and we’re so thankful for their dedication! 

Camp Fire Alaska staff


Learning Together 

We’re grateful for the partnerships we’ve formed with various organizations, including the YWCA, USFWS, Anchorage Health Department and more. These collaborations have enriched our campers’ experiences and provided them with valuable learning opportunities. We’re also thankful for the fun and educational visits from Bird TLC and Alaska Resource Education. Our CEO Mel even visited Summer Adventure Camp to facilitate a Farm-to-Table series! 


Military Connection 

We were honored to host Operation Purple Camp at Camp K in Cooper Landing, a camp specifically designed for youth of military families. This program of the National Military Family Association provides a unique opportunity for young individuals to build connections and develop new skills. Camp K welcomed 89 campers, where space was created for them to feel understood, supported, and free to be themselves. We were also thrilled to see the US Navy visit Anchorage as part of their 250th birthday celebration, marking the city’s first-ever US Navy Week. Sailors spent the week engaging with the community, and we were delighted to have them visit our camps. Our campers had a blast participating in activities with the sailors, from conquering the obstacle course at Camp Fireweed to crafting model boats and playing Gaga Ball at Summer Adventure Camp. 


Standout Moments 

This summer was filled with adventure and excitement at our three camps! Camp Fireweed kicked off the season with an Open House, where families explored the campgrounds, met counselors, and participated in activities. The camp’s annual car wash in July raised $780 for the Children’s Hospital, with campers scrubbing cars and cooling off in the water. Later, Camp Fireweed and Summer Adventure Camp teamed up for a Boat Regatta, where campers built cardboard boats and competed for fun awards like “Super Sloth,” “Van Gogh- Most Creative Design,” and “Titanic-Most Spectacular Sinking.” Camp K’s Teen Expedition Camp wrapped up the season with an incredible week-long adventure in the beautiful Halibut Cove area, kayaking, beachcombing, visiting glaciers, and hiking through stunning trails. These events showcased the spirit of adventure, teamwork, and community that defines our camps. 


Camp Life 

At our camps, we offer a wide range of activities that cater to different interests and ages. Our campers love playing Gaga Ball, 9 Square, and other camp games, laughing and cheering each other on. Everyone gets to try rock wall climbing and target sports, where they can push themselves and have fun. Circle time brings the group together for fun songs and dances, and at Camp K, the Closing Camp Fire is always a highlight, filled with hilarious skits and warm camaraderie. 


Venturing Out  

Both Summer Adventure Camp and Camp Fireweed enjoyed exciting field trips this year! Field trips were a new addition to Summer Adventure Camp’s program, and they were a huge success. Among their many excursions, Summer Adventure Camp went on adventures like hiking at Winner Creek and checking out the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Sealife Center. They also enjoyed joining Camp Fireweed each week for fun activities. Camp Fireweed campers embarked on a range of outings, including bowling at Center Bowl, exploring the Campbell Creek Science Center, swimming at Matanuska Lake, panning for gold at Indian Valley Mine, and painting pottery at Forget-Me-Not Pottery – just a few highlights of their many exciting trips. These experiences added to the excitement and variety of camp life. 


Camp Fire in the Community  

Camp Fire Alaska had the opportunity to attend some fantastic community events over the summer, including the Juneteenth festival, the Pride parade and festival, and the Teddy Bear Picnic, among others. These experiences allowed us to connect with the community and promote our mission. It was especially wonderful to catch up with past employees and parents whose kids have gone through our programs – hearing their stories and seeing the fond memories they’ve shared with Camp Fire Alaska warmed our hearts. We’re thankful for the opportunity to make a positive impact and to be part of so many families’ experiences. 

Camp Fire Alaska in the Community


Looking Ahead 

We had an unforgettable summer filled with laughter, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime. Now that we’re diving into the new school year, we’re excited to invite our summer campers to join us for afterschool fun and adventure! Our program offers a perfect blend of growth, learning, and excitement. Whether your child loves arts, sports, or STEM activities, our afterschool program provides a supportive and engaging environment. We’d love to have your child join us – enroll today and let’s keep the adventure going! 

Camp Fire Alaska- Enroll Today