Current as of 9/3/2026
4-H Kindred Camps Kindred Meeting
Tuesday, February 16, 2027
8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Join 4-H camping colleagues from around the country for a morning of learning, fun and sharing to kick off your conference. We will learn and share with our colleagues about the positive impact of the 4-H camping experience on today’s campers and staff.
Registration Fee: $75
Preregistration closes February 8.
For more information, contact Shawn Tiede, [email protected].
Accreditation Visit Mini Boot Camp
Tuesday, February 16, 2027
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
For camps expecting an accreditation visit in 2027, the Accreditation Visit Mini Boot Camp is an opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the accreditation process and ACA standards as they apply to your camp. You’ll learn from experienced accreditation volunteers and leave with resources to help you prepare for your visit. This is designed especially for those new to ACA accreditation. Please limit initial registration to two representatives per camp. Contact us for larger group registration.
Preregistration is required. Registration deadline is Monday, January 25, 2027. Day-of registration is not available. Walk-ins are not permitted.
NOTE: Camps must have paid fees and submitted an application for the 2027 visit season to attend the Accreditation Visit Mini Boot Camp. If your camp is still considering accreditation and would like to learn more information, we encourage you to attend an upcoming exploring accreditation webinar.
For more information, contact Bekah Carmichael, [email protected], 765-349-3531.
Accreditation Volunteer Course Part 2
Pre-registration is required; space is limited.
Monday, February 15, 2027
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
This course is required training to become a volunteer in ACA's national accreditation program.
Application, preregistration, and precourse work are required. Application deadline is Monday, January 25, 2027. Day-of registration is not available. Walk-ins are not permitted.
Registration Fee: $0
For more information or to register, contact Bekah Carmichael, [email protected], 765-349-3531.
ACA Accreditation Volunteer Meet-up
Thursday, February 18, 2027
5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Accreditation Volunteers are the heart of ACA's accreditation program. All ACA accreditation volunteers are invited to attend, meet other volunteers, and be celebrated for their service to ACA and the entire camp community.
By invitation only!
For more information or to register, contact Bekah Carmichael, [email protected], 765-349-3531.
Alliance for Camp Health - Professional Gathering of Healthcare Providers, Camp Leaders/Directors, and Behavioral Health Providers
Monday, February 15, 2027
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
The Alliance for Camp Health will host a gathering of individuals interested in
health and well-being in summer youth programs. During this time we will discuss hot topics, learn about important updates for camp health services, and engage in conversations that empower the community.
For more details and to register, visit www.allianceforcamphealth.org.
For more information, contact Tracey Gaslin, [email protected], 502-830-8393.
Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) Affinity Meetup
Tuesday, February 16, 2027
6:30 - 7:15 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
The BIPOC Affinity Group is a safe and inclusive space dedicated to fostering the success and support of Black, Brown, Indigenous, and people of color. This space is designed for those who identify as Black, Brown, Indigenous, and people of color. We hope this time serves as a space where people who identify as BIPOC can find support, common ground, and solidarity. Join us as we celebrate our cultures, support one another through our unique experiences, and build community.
For more information, contact Christen Peterson, [email protected], 765-349-3510.
Camp Fire Network Kindred
Tuesday, February 16, 2027
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Camp professionals from the Camp Fire Network are invited to gather for time to connect and learn together before the conference begins. Come ready for a mix of learning and facilitated connection and problem-solving. We'll provide snacks and coffee. We hope to see you there!
Registration Fee: $0
Preregistration closes February 8.
For more information, visit www.campfireresources.org/resources/.
For questions, contact HK Gilbert, [email protected].
Camp Includes Me Gathering
Tuesday, February 16, 2027
11:00 - 11:45 a.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Find Your ACA Conference Community
Find Your Community is built on connection, and so is the ACA National Conference. Whether you're looking to connect with camp professionals who share your identity, your camp type, your professional role, or your lived experiences, Find Your Community is designed to help you discover where you belong. This welcoming networking event introduces attendees to the many communities that gather throughout the conference. Meet camp professionals with shared interests and experiences, explore opportunities to build meaningful relationships, and learn how to stay connected beyond this event. Whether you're new to the conference or returning to reconnect with colleagues, this is a chance to find your people, expand your network, celebrate the diversity of our camp community, and begin the conference with a sense of belonging.
Registration Fee: $0
Preregistration closes February 8.
For more information, contact Christen Peterson, [email protected], 317-429-7614.
Camp Researchers and Evaluators Preconference
Tuesday, February 16, 2027
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
The Camp Researchers and Evaluators Preconference Workshop welcomes students, faculty, researchers, and camp professionals with an interest in research and evaluation to explore current methods and pressing questions in our field. Attendees will examine current topics in camp research, engage in critical dialogue, and build connections with scholars and practitioners committed to advancing the evidence base for camp. Note: You do not need to be a presenter at the 2027 Camp Research Forum to attend.
Registration Fee: $25 ACA members, $40 nonmembers
Preregistration closes February 8.
For more information, contact Miray Seward, [email protected].
Camp Researchers and Evaluators Social
Wednesday, February 17, 2027
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Offsite - Location TBA
The Camp Researchers and Evaluators Social is a space for camp researchers and evaluators to gather and connect. Open to any conference attendee, this is a space for conference attendees to meet others working in research and evaluation, swap ideas, catch up, and maybe find a new collaborator or two. The 2027 research and evaluation award winners, honored earlier in the main conference, will also be acknowledged during the event. Join us to strengthen and build new relationships in the research and evaluation community!
Registration Fee: $0
For more information, contact Miray Seward, [email protected].
Camps on Campus (COC) Preconference
February 15-16, 2027
Monday, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. & Tuesday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
The Camps on Campus Pre-Conference Workshop offers camp and program professionals who operate youth programs on college and university campuses, as well as K–12 independent school auxiliary programs, the opportunity to connect before the start of the conference. This session is open to administrators, program directors, camp directors, and anyone new to or experienced in this unique operating environment. The gathering will involve professional development presentations and roundtable discussions, facilitated by peer leaders and subject-matter experts, focusing on topics such as risk management, health and safety, staff training, and program quality as they relate to running youth programs on a campus setting. The purpose of this gathering is to build community among those working in campus-based programs while sharing knowledge and strengthening the quality of youth programs across college, university, and school campuses.
For more information, contact McKenna Crews, 765-349-3318, [email protected].
Character at Camp Grantee Summit
February 15, 2027
Monday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Character at Camp Grantees from Wave 1 and Wave 2 will gather at ACA National to connect, collaborate, celebrate, and learn together as they start gearing up for Summer 2027.
Registration Coming Soon!
For more information, contact Brian Massey, 336-301-5210, [email protected].
Diabetes Education and Camping Association (DECA) Conference with New Venture Fund (NVF) Camps Meeting
February 15-16, 2027
Monday, 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. & Tuesday, 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Join us for a conference designed for program and administrative leadership, staff, and volunteers who run and work at diabetes camps. Connect with fellow leaders, cultivate and nourish fresh ideas, and share best practices in a supportive environment
For more information and to register, visit https://www.diabetescamps.org.
Questions? Contact John Latimer at [email protected].
Emerging Professionals in Camping (EPIC) Preconference
Tuesday, February 16, 2027
10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Are you an EPIC (Emerging Professional in Camp)? Come join others who have been in the year-round camp industry for 10 years or less as they learn, share, network and problem solve together.
Registration Fee: $45 ACA members, $65 nonmembers
Preregistration closes February 8.
For more information, contact Janette Kunkel, [email protected], 765-349-3523.
Faith-Based Kindred Preconference
Offsite
Begin your conference experience by connecting with fellow faith-based camp professionals in a welcoming and supportive community. This preconference is designed to deepen relationships, foster meaningful conversations, and explore topics that matter most to those serving in faith-based camps and retreat ministries. Together, we'll share experiences, exchange ideas and resources, discuss opportunities and challenges unique to faith-based camping, and learn from one another's perspectives. Through interactive discussions and community-building activities, participants will strengthen their professional network, explore the intersection of faith, leadership, and the camp experience, and leave with new connections and practical insights to carry into their work. Whether you're attending to reconnect with colleagues or build new relationships, this preconference offers a dedicated space to grow in community, support one another, and celebrate the meaningful role faith plays in the camp experience.
For more information and to register, contact Christen Peterson, [email protected], 765-349-3510.
Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) Camp Professionals Gathering
Monday, February 15, 2027
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Join Girl Scout camp professionals from across the country for our Kindred Session on Monday, February 15, 2027! Together, we'll exchange ideas, tackle challenges, and discover innovative approaches to creating memorable camp experiences for every camper. Expect engaging conversations, practical takeaways, collaborative problem-solving, and plenty of opportunities to connect with peers who understand the joys and realities specific to Girl Scout camp leadership. This session is designed to leave you inspired, energized, and equipped with new ideas to bring back to your council.
Registration Fee: $160
Preregistration closes February 8.
For more information, contact Sarah Armstrong at [email protected].
Indiana Youth Programs on Campus (IYPC) Pre-Conference Workshop
February 15, 2027
Monday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
The IYPC Preconference Workshop offers Indiana college and university professionals engaged in the Indiana Youth Programs on Campus (IYPC) initiative the opportunity to connect before the start of the conference. This session is open to campus administrators, program directors, and staff from institutions participating in this Lilly Endowment–funded initiative. The gathering will involve presentations and roundtable discussions, facilitated by ACA staff and peer campus leaders, focusing on preparing programs for the transition into Round II of IYPC funding, including planning, implementation, and building high-quality, sustainable youth programs for Hoosier youth ages 5–18. The purpose of this gathering is to strengthen community among IYPC campuses and equip participating institutions with the resources, training, and connections needed to launch strong as Round II gets underway.
By Invitation Only!
For more information, contact McKenna Crews, 765-349-3318, [email protected].
International Camping Fellowship (ICF)
Join an informal dinner Monday night at 6:00 p.m. (TBD local restaurant and pay for your own meal). On Tuesday, join a Gathering of Internationals and Friends from 10 a.m. to noon in the International Room (check conference information for location). Stop by and visit the room during the conference! We seek to involve camp and youth development professionals from around the world in conversations. We gather to create enthusiasm, knowledge, and commitment by empowering each other. Everyone is welcome to celebrate catching the vision of our common experiences.
For more information, contact Cheryl Gans, [email protected].
Medical and Disability Camp (MDK) Kindred Preconference
Join us for the 2027 Medical and Disability Camp Kindred Preconference!
This year the event will happen in two parts. Choose ONE or BOTH to fit your needs. If you want to attend both events you will have to sign up for both.
First, departing from Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) on Sunday February 14th at 3pm Central and arriving back on February 15th at 2pm Central, an off-site camp Experience at The Center for Courageous Kids a residential medical and disability camp.
Next, our programming continues February 15th 6pm-9pm at the KICC and recommencing on the morning of the 16th from 8:30-12pm for a continental breakfast and community.
For additional information please go to the Medical and Disability Camp Kindred (MDK) webpage.
Off Site Camp Experience
$175 Member $210 Non-Member
(includes limited bus transportation, meals and all bedding)
KICC portion
$75 Member $100 Non-Member
(includes a continental breakfast and coffee service)
Preregistration closes February 8.
For more information, contact Gay Bruner, [email protected], or 615-406-3508.
New Director Orientation (NDO) Training
Monday, February 17, 2027
12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
NDO is an interactive course that includes activities, lectures, and discussions in a group problem-solving environment designed to address real-life situations at camp. This course covers five critical areas to help directors and supervisors develop the skills they need to be effective leaders. The core areas covered include:
- leadership and supervision
- camper and staff development and behavior
- staff training
- risk management
- evaluation and assessment
This course will be offered in a hybrid model, with a two-hour virtual meeting* and pre-coursework needing to be completed prior to the in-person meeting.
Learn more about NDO.
Limited to 40 participants. Registration available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration Fee: $150 ACA members, $250 nonmembers
Preregistration closes February 8.
For more information, contact Erin Flores, [email protected], or 765-349-3527.
Not-for-Profit Council (NFP) Lunch
Thursday, February 18, 2027
11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Join fellow nonprofit camp professionals for an engaging luncheon designed to build meaningful connections, spark new ideas, and strengthen the nonprofit camp community. Whether you're looking to exchange best practices, discuss the unique opportunities and challenges facing nonprofit camps, or expand your professional network, this gathering offers a welcoming space to connect with peers who understand your work. In addition to networking and peer discussion, you'll learn more about the American Camp Association's Not-for-Profit Council, discover opportunities to get involved, and explore how the council advances nonprofit camps through collaboration, advocacy, leadership development, and the sharing of resources and best practices. Leave with new connections, fresh ideas, and practical ways to engage with a network of nonprofit camp leaders committed to advancing the camp experience. Learn more about ACA's Not-for-Profit Council.
Registration Fee: $45 ACA members, $65 nonmembers
Preregistration closes February 8.
For more information, contact Warren Davis at [email protected].
Pioneer Luncheon
Thursday, February 18, 2027
11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
The Pioneers of Camping Club offers special recognition for ACA members with at least thirty years of professional camp experience and for camps that have been in operation for at least thirty years.
By invitation only!
For more information, contact Marna Redding at [email protected], 765-349-3529.
Pride at Camp LGBTQIA+ Gathering and Social
Wednesday, February 17, 2027
5:45 - 6:30 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Please join us for the Pride at Camp LGBTQIA+ Gathering and Social, a networking event for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community. This event aims to foster a supportive community for participants throughout their week in Louisville. It offers a welcoming and safe environment to connect, share resources, and expand your professional network. Registration is encouraged to support pre-conference connections and virtual networking opportunities within your community. However, registration is not required, and walk-ins are gladly welcomed. www.acacamps.org/about/partnerships/kindred-groups/pride-camp
For more information, contact Kristina Lee, [email protected] or 765-349-3535.
Quality Programs by Design
Tuesday, February 16, 2027
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Kentucky International Convention Center
Great camp moments don't just happen; they’re built with intention. This interactive session dives into ACA’s Camp Program Quality and explores how to use the Social and Emotional Learning Program Quality Assessment (SEL PQA) for Camp to design intentional camp activities, rituals, and systems that support positive youth development and great adult learning. You'll immerse yourself in the world of measurable quality staff practices and role-play real-life scenarios alongside other camp professionals. Whether you’re new to program quality or deepening your practice, you’ll leave with actionable, evidence-based strategies for fostering safety, support, interaction, and engagement for campers and staff.
Registration Fee: $200 ACA members, $300 nonmembers
Preregistration closes February 8.
For more information, contact Miray Seward, [email protected].
