Applications for Operation Purple Camp are open now, giving military-connected children ages 6 to 16 a chance to attend free weeklong sleepaway camps across the country this summer.
The National Military Family Association (NMFA) will run nine weeks of camps at eight locations nationwide. The application window runs through March 12. Families applying after that deadline go directly to a waitlist.
How Selection Works
NMFA prioritizes families dealing with deployments, service-related injuries, frequent moves and other challenging aspects of military life. After those families are considered, remaining spots go to other eligible military children.
Selection is not first-come, first-served. Families can apply anytime during the application window without disadvantage. NMFA typically gives spots to about 20 percent of applicants, according to the organization’s website.
All families receive notification of their application status in April via email from OPC@MilitaryFamily.org. Accepted families must pay a fully refundable $25 deposit per camper to hold their spot.
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Who Can Apply
Children qualify if they have a parent or guardian serving in any branch of the uniformed services, including the National Guard, reserve, Space Force and Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and U.S. Public Health Service.
Camps are completely free. Families pay only the refundable deposit and cover transportation costs to and from camp. NMFA does not reimburse travel expenses nor medical costs, such as required camp physicals.
What Campers Experience
Operation Purple Camps are technology-free for the week. Phones, tablets, gaming devices and laptops stay locked away with camp staff so kids can focus on outdoor activities and building friendships with other military kids.
Activities vary by location but typically include ropes courses, ziplining, swimming, kayaking, archery, arts and crafts, STEM activities and team sports. Camps also feature military-specific programming such as flag ceremonies and the Wall of Honor, where campers share photos and stories of their service member.
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Military and family life counselors are available on-site for additional support during camp.
The eight 2026 camp locations are:
- Cooper Landing, Alaska
- Parkton, North Carolina
- Graford, Texas
- Williamsburg, Va.
- Trinity, Texas
- San Diego
- Bradenburg, Kentucky
- Hilliard, Florida
Families can join the Operation Purple Family Connection Facebook group for updates directly from the program team.
Apply online at www.militaryfamily.org.
Virtual Alternative
Families who don’t get camp spots or prefer staying home can register for Operation Purple Summer Challenge, a free virtual program accepting all participants. Registration for the virtual program opens in April and is available to kids ages 5 to 15.
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