Camp Fire Central Oregon | Light the Fire Within

Youth thrive here

The Camp Fire Experience Find a Program

Camp Fire Central Oregon has been an innovative leader in youth development since 1916.

Kids & teens learn how to succeed NOW, through:

Self-discovery

All young people find their spark, lift their voice, and discover who they areSee our research-based program framework that we call “The Camp Fire Journey,” which develops essential skills and mindsets. Learn how we honor and celebrate Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

Community Connection

All young people find, build, and contribute to their community; they develop meaningful relationships with supportive adults and peers; they feel seen, heard, accepted, supported, and affirmed for who they are today, and who they will be in the future.

Engagement with Nature

All young people experience the power and awe of the outdoors; they learn to respect, love, and care for our world. Camp Fire Central Oregon has staff and programming committed to getting youth outside and helping them engage with and build appreciation for the natural world around us.

“He eagerly asked to go back next year.”

My son transitioned quickly after a year of remote school thanks to the program and the counselors. Following the close of camp, he eagerly asked to go back next year.

SummerKids Parent

1916

The Legacy

2022

The Camp Fire logos over the years

Measuring Impact

1,588

registrations for our programs so far this year.

82

% of youth said adults in Camp Fire help them solve problems instead of telling them what to do.

83

% of youth said adults in Camp Fire encourage them to explore the things they are interested in.

94

% of youth feel happy, heard, and supported in Camp Fire.

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Media Release: Summer 2024: Camp Dreams Coming True!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Summer 2024: Camp Dreams Coming True! Grant funding and community partnerships open doors to affordable STEM-focused outdoor programs and robotics adventures with Camp Fire Central Oregon. Bend, Ore. May 13, 2024 – With summer camp season just… Read More >

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Bit(e) of Robotics to Wrap Up Soon! Last Free Event: May 31

A crowd of kids and families participating at Bit(e) of Robotics at Deschutes Public Library

Over the past winter and spring months, Camp Fire Central Oregon has been holding free Bit(e) of Robotics workshops through the Deschutes Public Library—and these introductory robotics events have been a hit! Taking place at the Redmond Public Library and… Read More >

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Staff Spotlight: Cece Valceschini

In the realm of Camp Fire Central Oregon champions, one of our greatest superheroes is Cece Valceschini! As our program specialist, Cece runs our certified babysitter training, supports Kids Night Out events, and serves as the director of our beloved… Read More >

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Little Kids, Big Impact

The research is undeniable: Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong learning, health and well-being. Studies show that sustained, high-quality early childhood education narrows achievement gaps(1), improves health outcomes, increases high school graduation rates and is linked to better… Read More >

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Absolutely Incredible Kid® Day Sets Record Attendance

Two youth hold signs showing why they are incredible

There’s perhaps nothing more inspiring than seeing kids experience sheer joy, and that’s exactly what played out at Absolutely Incredible Kid® Day (AIK Day) on March 20, when a record number of youth—including those from two Camp Fire Afterschool programs—joined… Read More >

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Staff Spotlight: Zafiro Larsen

Zafiro Larsen Sunset Picture

Meet Zafiro Larsen (pictured left) and you can’t help but be impressed by this high-energy, deeply caring human being, who, at Camp Fire Central Oregon, also goes by the name of “Sonora.” That word in Latin means “to make sound,… Read More >

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Our Promise

Young people want to shape the world.

Camp Fire provides the opportunity to find their spark, lift their voice, and discover who they are.

In Camp Fire, it begins now.

Light the fire within