Friends of Camp Colton cultivates exceptional learning experiences that instill the value of preserving our natural world and inspire growth and discovery. Camp Colton is celebrating more than fifty years of discovery, exploration, and adventure. Through Camp Colton programs, kids are immersed in nature and inspired to learn about themselves and their world. Operated by Flagstaff Unified School District in partnership with Friends of Camp Colton, this off-grid residential outdoor environmental education center on the slopes of the San Francisco Peaks is an integral part of what it means to grow up in the Northern Arizona community.  

“Camp Colton is a wonderful place. We learned new things and made new friends. After Camp Colton, I was a new person. I respected wildlife more than ever, and I had more confidence in myself.”  

- Avery, 6th Grade Camper 

Although Flagstaff and the surrounding areas have plentiful outdoor activities, not every child has the opportunity to get outside and go camping. For the last five decades, the residential 6th grade program has introduced more than 47,000 students to the wonders of nature. For many, this is their first-time camping, sleeping away from home, and practicing self-reliance. Leaving technology at home, campers continuously engage with their environment and each other; and ultimately grow in confidence while developing an affinity for nature. 

“Students who attend Camp Colton overcome their fears. They grow in confidence and build new communities. They stretch beyond their own expectations and draw upon that growth in future challenges.”  

- 6th Grade Science Teacher Kathryn Wirth 
  
 

For Camp Colton to continue, the facilities need a significant upgrade. Most Camp buildings remain in their original state, dating back more than 50 years. Even more importantly, Camp programs are at capacity and we are unable to meet increasing demand. To ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to live, learn, and play at Camp, Friends of Camp Colton is in the midst of a capital campaign. New lodge construction is already underway, and the remaining phases will follow, pending funding. We are committed to creating campfire memories for the next 50 years. 

Visit the Friends of Camp Colton site to learn even more about this amazing, educational nonprofit: https://www.friendsofcampcolton.org/