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.

“Makes a parent’s heart happy to know they are always in good hands.”

Our kids had a great time at camp this year they love all the counselors who help make camp fun. I’m sure we will hear about the amazing counselors all year long. Makes a parent’s heart happy to know they are always in good hands.

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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Camp Fire Rocks It at Recent Robotics Tournament!

On December 15, 2024, Bend’s Mountain View High School was buzzing with excitement as teams gathered for the highly anticipated FIRST® LEGO® League Qualifying Tournament, a key milestone on the journey to the annual state-level robotics competition in Oregon. Hosted… Read More >

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Coping With Change Through Connection

Banner that says Coping With Chnage

Change is one of the few constants in life, but knowing that doesn’t make it any easier to deal with—especially for young people. Adolescents and young adults come face-to-face with life’s uncertainties on multiple fronts: academic pressures, career choices, evolving… Read More >

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Media Release: Revamping Recess: Camp Fire Pilots Playworks Program at Three Rivers School

Youth playing on playground.

National program to tackle common playground struggles while empowering youth to thrive through stronger lifeskills.   BEND, Ore., Jan.8, 2025 – Ask elementary school kids what they love about school, and you’ll likely hear a number of them enthusiastically shout, “Recess!”… Read More >

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Neigh-borly Fun Kicks Off Teen Connects’ ‘Season of Service’

Teen Connects Group Trots Over to Healing Reins to Support Nonprofit’s Holiday Celebration Last Saturday was giddy-up-and-go time for Teens Connect’s annual Season of Service, a spirited series of community volunteer events Camp Fire Central Oregon is offering to teens… Read More >

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Staff Spotlight: Melanie Feltmate, Programs Director

Melanie Feltmate with Camp Fire youth in the background.

Our Incredible “Behind-the-Curtain” Wizard If you’ve been in the merry ole land of “Camp Fire Central Oregon” for a bit, you’ve likely met or at least heard of Melanie Feltmate (she/her), our resident “Wizard” behind Camp Fire’s curtain. Melanie has… Read More >

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Sure, It’s Cold Outside. But We’re Reflecting on Hot Data From Summer!

Sure, It’s Cold Outside. But We’re Reflecting on Hot Data From Summer! With 2024 coming to a close and plans in the works for next summer’s programs, Camp Fire Central Oregon has been reflecting on vital feedback and data from… 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