Camp Discovery
Refer a Camper
Camp Discovery can be a life-changing experience for children with moderate or severe skin conditions. Consider giving your patients the opportunity to spend a week at camp.
New this year, dermatologists do not need to refer their patients. Parents can refer a camper using our online form. Once the form is submitted, a staff member from the American Academy of Dermatology will contact the family. We encourage campers to submit their referrals by April 4, 2025. However, referrals will continue to be considered as long as camps have available space. For more information, contact the AAD at (847) 240-1737 or email jmueller@aad.org.
Frequently asked questions about the referral process
Who is eligible to attend camp?
Any patient between the age of 8-16 with a moderate or severe skin condition is eligible. There is no condition “not serious enough” to prevent eligibility.
What happens once the referral form is submitted?
A member of AAD staff will contact the family to answer questions, explain the process, and begin working to get the child to camp.
Does every referred child get accepted?
This depends on the volume of referrals. Referrals will continue to be considered as long as camps have available space.
Who should parents contact with questions?
Parents can email jmueller@aad.org or call (847) 240-1737. They can also learn more about Camp Discovery on our website.
Is there a cost involved in referring my patients to Camp Discovery?
No, there is no cost to you or to the families. Camp Discovery is free to all families, even including airfare in many instances.
What is Camp like for the kids who attend?
Watch the video below and find out!
AAD Camp Discovery
For one week out of the year, kids with chronic skin conditions from across the United States and around the world will come to Camp Discovery to experience an adventure filled with fun, friendship, and personal growth. Everyone, regardless of their skin condition, can experience activities such as fishing, swimming, archery, horseback riding, nature trails, and just plain fun!
2025 Camp Discovery dates
Prescott, Arizona: June 8-13 (ages 8-16)
Crosslake, Minnesota: June 30-July 4 (ages 8-12)
Crosslake, Minnesota: July 6-11 (ages 13-16)
Burton, Texas: August 3-8 (ages 8-16)
Millville, Pennsylvania: August 10-15 (ages 8-16)
Andover, Connecticut: August 10-15 (ages 8-16)
Volunteer at Camp
The success of the AAD’s Camp Discovery depends on dedicated medical staff and counselors who volunteer their time to ensure that the campers are safe, their medical needs are attended to, and that they have fun!
Volunteers can select the week that is most convenient for them.
The Academy will cover the cost of airfare for those that need to fly.
Each location accepts a number of medical staff.
All volunteers are expected to volunteer for the entire camp week, unless previously arranged.
The week will be very high energy, with little down-time. Be prepared to work very long hours. You will be exhausted by the end of the week.
For more information, call the AAD at (847) 240-1737 or email jmueller@aad.org.
Frequently asked questions for volunteers
How do I apply to volunteer?
Applications are available beginning in mid-January of each year and can be completed directly online. Three references and one letter of recommendation are also required. The application deadline is April 2. Apply for a Camp Discovery volunteer position.
Do I need experience working with children?
Experience is helpful, but is not mandatory. Applications are reviewed carefully, and selection is based on experience with children as well as other general experiences — such as school and work, expectations for the volunteer positions, reasons why you chose to apply, etc. You need to be comfortable and enthusiastic about entertaining and supervising children.
Do I need to volunteer for the entire week?
Yes. Volunteering for only part of the week is challenging, as it disrupts the continuity of the cabin group as well as presents an issue regarding adequate supervision.
