Figuring out how their kids will spend the summer is an issue every parent faces; military moms and dads are no different. While summer camp is not mandatory, there is no denying the unique experience that a child can receive when they attend summer camp! The friendships and skills made can last you a lifetime.
If you are considering sending your children to summer camp this year, Military Mom Collective wants to make sure you know about Operation Purple Camp!
What Is Operation Purple Camp?
Operation Purple Camp is a nationwide summer camp program offered exclusively to military-connected children. While it includes the adventure and fun of a traditional summer camp, it is intentionally designed with military kids in mind. Operation Purple Camp began in 2004 through the National Military Family Association. Since the first camp in 2004, more than 70,000 military kids and teens have zip-lined, surfed, created, explored, and connected with peers who get military life; building resilience and lifelong friendships along the way. NMFA believes that Military Kids Serve Too® and has honored that service through Operation Purple Camp, providing free, weeklong overnight summer camp experiences that give military-connected kids something essential: a place to belong, to connect, and to simply be kids.
“Military children serve alongside their parents in ways that often go unseen. They navigate family separations and reintegration, frequent moves, and the many emotional realities of military life, often without peers who truly understand what they are carrying.”
If this is your first year sending your child to overnight camp, it can be quite nerve-wracking! Operation Purple Camp is there to ensure the safety and well-being of all the campers. From the FAQ section of their website, Operation Purple Camp states that “Many of our campers are brand new to the camping experience. While only your family can make the decision on whether camp is the right choice for you, our Operation Purple team offers a number of ways to help you make that decision.” There is also a private Facebook Group for parents to join to learn from camp experts and other families about the experience and how to prepare yourself and your family for the camp.
Campers unplug from technology and immerse themselves in the great outdoors while forming meaningful friendships, gaining confidence, and discovering new passions.
It is important to note that Operation Purple Camp is free for families, removing a key barrier to access. That access creates opportunities for connection, confidence, and growth that extends well beyond the week at camp.
“It’s more than just a summer camp. It’s a place where military kids can be kids, while also being understood and supported for the unique challenges they face. It was a relief to know she was in a safe, supportive environment.” – Vitalia, mother of 1 camper
Locations for Operation Purple Camp are held at various campgrounds throughout thecontinental United States and Alaska and run throughout the summer. Applications for Operation Purple Camp are open today (February 11th) and close on March 11, 2026.
If an overnight summer camp cannot work for your family, NMFA also offers a free virtual summer camp from home option! Operation Purple Summer Challenge, NMFA’s summer-long virtual program that brings the fun and excitement of camp to families, wherever military life takes them. This free program is available for children ages 6-14, with challenges that can be completed anywhere in the world with supplies that can be found around the home.
Thank you, NMFA, for being an amazing support system for our military kids! Has your child attended an Operation Purple Camp in the past? Let us know in the comments your experience!
