Okizu Camp Programs

Okizu Camp Programs offers medically supervised, residential camp programs for children and families affected by childhood cancer. The programs include Oncology Camp, SIBS (siblings) Camp, Family Camp, a Bereaved Teen Program, and a Teens-N-Twenties weekend program. Okizu states that it is more than a summer camp and works year-round whenever needed.

• Ages: 7–18 years old
• Schedule: Multi-day summer sleep-away sessions, family camp weekends, bereaved teen weekends, and one-day family events throughout 2026
• Price: All programs are offered free of charge to the families they serve

For more than 40 years, Camp Okizu has offered support programs to families who have a child diagnosed with cancer, and the organization states it has been serving its community for 45 years. Okizu provides children and families affected by childhood cancer with peer support, respite, and community through camp experiences and programs, all offered free of charge. The specific purpose of Okizu is to operate peer support programs for children and families affected by childhood cancer based on the community-forming nature of a residential camp experience. Okizu’s name comes from the Sioux language and means unity, to come together, to heal from a hurt, to make whole. Okizu is dedicated to serving every child and family in Northern California affected by childhood cancer who wishes to attend, regardless of physical condition, geographic location, economic background, age, ethnicity, race, nation of origin, languages spoken, culture, religion, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, opinions, and beliefs, and its stated vision is that no child or family member walks the childhood cancer journey alone.

Okizu’s programs are the result of a collaborative effort between Okizu and pediatric oncology treatment centers in Northern California. The Taylor Family Foundation is recognized for sponsoring sessions of Camp Okizu, and its mission is to preserve the wellness and enhance the quality of life for children in Northern California with life-threatening and chronic illnesses, disabilities, and youth at risk through therapeutic experiences and support. Okizu works with partners from volunteers to national medical institutions to reach and support those they serve year-round, and volunteers contribute thousands of hours each year.

Last updated July 22, 2026.