For many children, summer camp is a tradition filled with swimming, campfires, and lifelong memories. But for thousands of Central Texas families facing financial hardship, an overnight camp is something their children may never have the opportunity to experience.
For nearly 100 years, Austin Sunshine Camps has worked to change that.
Founded in 1928, Austin Sunshine Camps provides the magic of overnight camp without the barrier of cost to over 500 Central Texas youth each year. ASC serves children from low-income households and foster care backgrounds, many of whom have experienced instability and would not otherwise have access to a traditional summer camp experience.
“For nearly 100 years, Austin Sunshine Camps has provided children facing financial hardship with a safe, supportive environment where they can grow in confidence, connection, and leadership,” said Erica Blue, CEO of Austin Sunshine Camps.
By removing cost and access barriers, ASC opens doors for children to take part in structured outdoor adventure, mentorship, and social-emotional learning that extend well beyond a typical camp setting.
What sets Austin Sunshine Camps apart is not just what happens during the summer, but how intentionally the experience is designed. Programming centers on emotional growth, confidence-building, and leadership development. Small staff-to-camper ratios allow for meaningful connection, steady mentorship, and individualized attention that helps campers grow at their own pace.
A key part of that model is the Counselor-in-Training program, which creates a direct pathway from camper to leader. Former campers return in a new role, learning how to support younger campers, lead activities, and develop real leadership skills through hands-on experiences. Over time, the program helps shape young people who carry those lessons into their schools, families, and communities.
Eli is one example of that pathway. He first attended Austin Sunshine Camps at age 8, unsure of what to expect. Years later, he returned as a Counselor-in-Training and now serves as a counselor, supporting campers who are navigating many of the same experiences he once did.
“ASC is honestly the best time of my life,” Eli said. “This is where the magic happens.”
His journey reflects the broader intent of the Counselor-in-Training program, where campers grow into leaders who help guide the next generation.
Families consistently report growth in independence, social skills, and confidence after camp. Many campers return year after year, reflecting the trust and continuity built through long-term relationships between staff and campers.
Today, Austin Sunshine Camps is supported by donors, corporate partners, volunteers, and foundations across the Austin community. Corporate sponsorships and volunteer engagement play a key role in expanding access and sustaining programs for more children across Central Texas.
As Austin Sunshine Camps approaches its centennial year, its mission remains steady. Each summer focuses on helping young people build confidence, discover their strengths, and leave with a clearer sense of what they are capable of becoming.
Camp sessions for summer 2026 run June 21 to Aug. 11 at two locations, Zilker Park and Lake Travis, each offering a distinct natural environment for exploration, growth, and connection.
To learn more about Austin Sunshine Camps or ways to get involved, including corporate sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, visit sunshinecamps.org.
