Located in the breathtaking Sequoia National Forrest of the Sierra Nevada Range, Bearskin Meadow Camp operated by Diabetes Youth Families (DYF) offers a number of different sessions for children, teens and families affected by diabetes. From swimming, backpacking, and sports to day trekking, arts and crafts, music, and drama, there is something suited for all interests, ages and skill levels. Diabetes education is incorporated into everything we do, including meal times, activity times, in formal education sessions, and during informal times. With over 65 qualified counselors, health care professionals, program staff, and camp administration, Bearskin Meadow Camp offers a top-notch program in traditional camp activities coupled with the most advanced diabetes education. Year round programs including weekend camps and education retreats are also offered in the Greater East Bay Area. Please check www.dyf.org for additional information.

Financial Assistance Available

Camperships available, based on financial qualifications. Tax return or evidence of state aid can be submitted with application.

The camp menu is one that emphasizes kid-friendly food and well balanced nutrition. Snacks are served three times daily and include yummy and healthy treats such as frozen grapes, yogurt tubes, nuts, cheese, good ol' rainsins and Popsicles. Meals are also served three times daily. Special emphasis is placed on high fiber foods, including fruits and vegetables at every meal, as well as little to no partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. Campers are encouraged to make healthy choices and are welcome to take seconds from our carb-free menu. Special treats of the week include rice crispie squares and home made cookies from scratch, and sugar free snow cones. A dietitian is on site for the entire summer to ensure that the nutritional needs of each of our campers are being met, and to offer formal diabetes education in carbohydrate counting and meal planning.

Bearskin Meadow Camp of the Diabetes Youth Families is located in the breathtaking Sequoia National Forest and provides an exceptional environment for learning and growth. Bearskin was established in 1939 for children with diabetes and continues to offer the utmost in diabetes education and camp programming. With over 60 caring and professional, counseling, program and health care staff, Bearskin strives to offer each of its participants the camping experience of a lifetime. In a supportive atmosphere, children, teens and families, are encouraged to share experiences, stories and tricks of the trade in living with diabetes. Offering both formal and informal diabetes education, participants go home with new knowledge and renewed sense of determination to live their best lives. For more information including registration, accommodations, location, pictures and to learn about our year round programs, please check out www.dyf.org.