Children's Hospital Colorado

Cleft Camps: Summer and Winter

We collaborate with every specialty in the hospital to advance new surgical techniques, teach tomorrow’s surgeons and give our patients a brighter today.

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720-777-2574

Each year, the Cleft Lip and Palate Clinic at Children’s Hospital Colorado offers children with cleft lip or cleft palate the opportunity to experience the mountains of Colorado at a camp designed specifically for them. Camp is available twice a year, once in the summer and once in the winter.

What makes Cleft Camp unique?

Cleft Camp provides children the opportunity to spend quality time with others who share a similar diagnosis. The experience is designed to help kids understand that they are not facing the world alone. In the mountains of Breckenridge, campers participate in various outdoor activities, forge friendships with each other, enhance their self-esteem and leave feeling more confident. 

"It's the best thing ever to be around other kids with cleft. I have never seen another kid with a cleft before. This is the best opportunity to go away for a weekend to see other kids with cleft. This is the best experience of my life."
Raymond, 9 years old

Cleft Camp builds kids' confidence

While at camp, in addition to the many mountain activities they enjoy, campers participate in a sharing circle. This special experience allows campers to talk about their feelings in a safe environment and ask fellow campers questions about cleft-related issues. The sharing circle is a source of inspiration, special camaraderie and leaves campers with a lasting support network. Campers experience all of this, while having fun in the beautiful mountains of Colorado.

Our patients, ages 8-18, are encouraged to join us for this meaningful and inspiring experience.

Campers enjoy a range of activities, depending on the season

  • Hiking
  • Rope courses
  • Climbing wall
  • Canoeing
  • Private ski or snowboard lessons
  • Tubing
  • Arts and crafts
  • Games
  • Sharing circle

Where is the Cleft Camp?

The Cleft Camp takes place at the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC), a non-profit educational organization located in Breckenridge, Colorado.

How much does it cost?

This camp is, in large part, underwritten by the Sharon Carabello Bocce Classic. There are additional camp fees, and scholarships may be available upon request.

Who can attend?

All patients ages 8-18 of the Cleft Lip and Palate Clinic at Children’s Colorado are encouraged to join us. Each camp has a limited number of spaces available, so please contact us if your child is interested.

How long does Cleft Camp last?

Summer Camp: 4 day, 3 night experience; 18 camper limit
Winter Camp: 3 day, 2 night experience; 14 camper limit

Contact us

For more information, please contact the Cleft Lip and Palate Clinic at 720-777-2574.