Research has confirmed what many parents of gluten-free children already understand: being with peers who share the same dietary restrictions helps kids feel normal. Dedicated gluten-free summer camps give children a safe, inclusive environment where they can be themselves and enjoy a full camp experience without constant dietary questions or worries.
Children who attend a gluten-free summer camp often report improved self-esteem, greater emotional well-being, and a more positive outlook. According to a study published in Pediatrics, campers left feeling less different and less frustrated by dietary restrictions. The greatest benefits were seen in children who had followed a gluten-free diet for less than four years; these campers reported decreased feelings of embarrassment and isolation after spending time with peers who understand the same lifestyle.
Camp environments also promote peer learning: younger or newer gluten-free campers pick up coping strategies and food-management tips from campers who have longer experience with the diet. For many families, a gluten-free camp is more than a vacation—it’s an opportunity for growth, connection, and renewed confidence.
Below is an updated list of gluten-free and gluten-friendly camps around the United States for 2023. Details include locations, program highlights, age ranges, and session dates where available. If your favorite camp isn’t listed, consider contacting the camp or leaving details in the comments so others can learn about it.
Gluten Free Summer Camps for Kids – Updated for 2023
California
Camp Celiac, Northern California
San Francisco Bay Area (Livermore, CA)
Camp Celiac takes place at Camp Arroyo, a 138-acre site where campers, counselors, and volunteers enjoy entirely gluten-free meals and traditional camp activities. Days are filled with a ropes course, rock climbing, zip-lining, boating, swimming, archery, arts and crafts, skit night, and outdoor sports. The ability to eat freely without asking about ingredients is transformative for many campers. 2023 session: one 5-night session for ages 9–15, July 15–20, 2023.
Florida
KEF USA (Orlando)
KEF USA runs multi-week camps in Orlando for teens and older campers. The program is 100% gluten-free and combines learning, discovery, and adventure. Their culinary team includes Le Cordon Bleu graduates and staff who received specialized training in gluten-free meal preparation and cross-contamination prevention. These camps stress nutrition and safe food handling while keeping meals fun for kids.
Georgia
Georgia ROCK – Camp Weekaneatit, Camp Twin Lakes (Winder, GA)
July 9–14, 2023
Organized by the Georgia Celiac Foundation, this week-long camp is for children aged 8–17. The program focuses on independent living skills, coping strategies, and traditional camp fun—swimming, fishing, canoeing, archery, ceramics, and more—served with entirely gluten-free meals and snacks.
Indiana
Camp Gluten Freedom (Camp Jameson, Indianapolis)
For children ages 9–14. The camp can also accommodate gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diets and many other food sensitivities upon request. During the camp week, the facility serves only gluten-free food, significantly reducing cross-contamination risk. Activities include hiking, swimming, archery, and fishing. Capacity is limited; the price is typically modest and sponsorships may be available. Contact the organizers for registration and dietary planning.
Massachusetts
Camp Emerson (Western Massachusetts)
Camp Emerson welcomes boys and girls ages 7–15 with 2, 4, and 6-week sessions. The camp supports all food allergies and special diets, operates a nut-free environment, and provides a gluten-free kitchen area with chefs trained in cross-contamination prevention. A registered dietitian helps create individualized menus for campers.
Camp Wingate*Kirkland (Cape Cod)
Located on Cape Cod, this co-ed overnight camp for ages 7–15 manages dietary restrictions and accommodates special diets. The staff is experienced at handling allergies and creating a safe dining environment while offering a broad range of activities inspired by the coastal setting.
Michigan
Beyond Gluten Camp (Camp Copneconic, Fenton)
August 13–18, 2023
Open to children entering grades 4–11 from the United States and Canada. One-week session fee listed; scholarships available. Registration details include selecting the designated session and noting “Gluten Free” in cabinmate requests.
Free to Be Camp! (Camp Westminster, Higgins Lake)
For campers ages 7–18 with food allergies or sensitivities. Camp Westminster has extensive experience preparing special-diet meals and provides a range of outdoor activities along with a supportive community environment.
Minnesota
Gluten-Free Fun Camp (McGregor, MN)
Hosted in partnership with Twin Cities R.O.C.K. and Camp New Hope, this camp offers a fully gluten-free menu prepared to minimize contamination risks so campers can focus on cabins, swimming, and traditional camp fun. July 16–21, 2023.
New York
Camp Eagle Hill (Elizaville, NY)
Co-ed overnight camp for ages 6–16 on a 200-acre site near the Berkshires. Camp Eagle Hill operates a dedicated gluten-free kitchen area offering salads, desserts, and main courses prepared by a chef experienced in gluten-free cooking.
Celiac Strong Camp (Hunt, NY)
Dedicated gluten-free co-ed camp for ages 7–16. The program focuses on letting campers forget they have celiac while enjoying games, crafts, songs, and s’mores. Lactose-free accommodations are available, but other restrictions may be limited. Session: August 10–13, 2023.
New Jersey
Tall Pines Day Camp (Williamstown, NJ)
Day camp for ages 3–14 that describes itself as celiac- and vegetarian-friendly and operates as nut-free. Programs focus on safe, inclusive day-camp activities.
New Jersey / Pennsylvania
NJY – Youth and Gluten-Free Family Camp (Lakewood & Milford, PA)
NJY Camps offers gluten-free and kosher meals from a dedicated gluten-free kitchen and has staff trained in gluten-free practices. The program was developed in partnership with the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University Medical Center and is accredited in gluten-free food service.
North Carolina
GIG Kids Camp East (Camp Kanata, Wake Forest)
Camp Kanata hosts a week dedicated to gluten-free campers ages 6–15 with a full schedule of skill-building activities and character development. GIG holds scholarship spots for qualifying campers. Session: July 23–29, 2023.
Oklahoma
Camp Waluhili (Tulsa)
One-week sessions for ages 8–17 with only gluten-free food served during the designated week. Specialty tracks include traditional camp activities, water sports, outdoor skills, climbing, and STEAM options. Week 1 typically includes an all–gluten-free menu.
Pennsylvania
Gluten Free Family Camp (Milford Campus)
This family weekend is designed for families affected by celiac disease or following a gluten-free lifestyle. In collaboration with medical professionals, the camp balances education, relaxation, and family activities. All meals are prepared in a dedicated GIG-certified kosher kitchen.
Rhode Island
Camp Celiac (North Scituate)
One-week camp for ages 8–16 at Camp Aldersgate on a 230-acre property with waterfronts, cabins, and health services. Camp Celiac uses layered safety measures to create a secure gluten-free environment and provides on-site nursing and emergency support. Session: August 6–11, 2023.
Texas
Dallas ROCK – The Great Gluten Escape (Camp Gilmont, Gilmer)
Six-day residential camp for ages 7–15 designed for youth with celiac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis, or gluten sensitivity. Only gluten-free food is served for the week, allowing campers and siblings to relax and enjoy traditional camp activities. Session: July 16–21, 2023.
Washington
GIG Kids Camp West (Camp Sealth, Vashon Island)
Campers with gluten intolerance or celiac disease are supported by GIG-trained volunteers and staff. Dietitians oversee gluten-free meal preparation; a dedicated, contamination-free kitchen is used during GIG sessions. Note that not all Camp Sealth sessions are entirely gluten-free, so families with highly sensitive children should select the dedicated GIG session. Session: August 14–19, 2023.
I hope you find this list useful for planning a safe, fun summer experience. If your favorite gluten-free camp is missing, consider sharing details in the comments so others can learn about it.