The American Camp Association (ACA) is pleased to announce the formal launch of the bipartisan Congressional Camp Caucus, led by Representatives Chris Pappas (D-NH) and Chuck Edwards (R-NC). This marks the first time in history that members of Congress have established a caucus devoted entirely to the camp community.
The Congressional Camp Caucus will elevate the role camps play in youth development, workforce preparation, rural economies, and community vitality nationwide. More than 26 million children attend day and overnight camps each year across the United States, making camp one of the country’s most far-reaching youth-serving institutions.
“We are thrilled to see Representatives Pappas and Edwards step forward to lead this bipartisan effort,” said Henry DeHart, President and CEO of the American Camp Association. “Camp strengthens young people, supports working families, and fuels local economies. The creation of this caucus ensures that the camp community now has dedicated champions in Congress.”
Rep. Pappas represents New Hampshire’s First Congressional District, home to more than 100 camps and a state with a deep camp tradition dating back nearly 150 years. Rep. Edwards represents North Carolina’s 11th District in Western North Carolina, one of the highest concentrations of ACA-accredited camps in the country and a region where camps generate significant economic impact.
Together, their leadership provides bipartisan and geographic balance to the caucus — pairing a Northeast and Southern voice in support of camps and the communities they serve.
Camps contribute approximately $70 billion annually to the U.S. economy, support nearly one million jobs, and generate more than $13 billion in federal, state, and local tax revenue. Beyond their economic impact, camps provide safe, structured environments where young people build resilience, leadership, collaboration skills, and meaningful peer connection.
The Congressional Camp Caucus will focus on:
- Promoting child safety and high-quality standards across the camp community
- Supporting workforce development and rural economies where camps serve as major employers
- Expanding access so more children can benefit from camp experiences
- Protecting and strengthening the camp sector through federal policy engagement
Momentum is already building, with additional House members from both parties signing on to join the caucus. ACA is hopeful a Senate companion caucus will be announced in the coming months.