The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp

The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp offers a summer program with traditional camp activities for children ages 7 to 15, including siblings, and it has multiple six-day sessions. It also offers Family Camp for families with a child affected by a diagnosis the camp is serving for that session, with three-to-five day weekend sessions in spring, summer, and fall; lodging and meals are provided, and the camp is free of charge.

At a glance

• Current session: Fall Family Camp 5 (Oct 30–Nov 1, 2026); Fall Family Camp 6 (Nov 6–Nov 8, 2026); Fall Family Camp 7 (Nov 13–Nov 15, 2026); Fall Family Camp 8 (Nov 20–Nov 22, 2026)
• General schedule: Summer program: multiple six-day sessions. Family Camp: three-to-five day weekend sessions; arrival time is 5:30 p.m. on Friday and families leave after lunch on Sunday. A typical Family Camp Saturday schedule includes breakfast at 8:30 a.m., morning activities at 10:15 a.m., lunch at 12:30 p.m., rest time/parent chat at 1:30 p.m., afternoon activities at 2:45 p.m., dinner at 5:30 p.m., evening activity at 7 p.m., and lights out at 10 p.m.

About the provider

The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp was founded in 1988 by Paul Newman. Its mission is to provide “a different kind of healing” to children with serious illnesses and their families through year-round programs celebrating the fun, friendship and spirit of childhood. The camp is accredited by the American Camp Association and licensed by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood.

• Summer program — 7–15 · Multiple six-day sessions · For children with serious illnesses and siblings; traditional camp activities; medical presence; free of charge.
• Family Camp — 5–15 · Three-to-five day weekend sessions in spring, summer and fall · For families with a child affected by a diagnosis Camp is serving for that session; siblings can be of any age; free of charge; lodging and meals are provided.
• Adolescent & Young Adult Programs — 16–25 · Provides a variety of exciting challenges and opportunities for self-discovery and growth.
• Hospital Outreach Program — Brings the joy and fun of Camp to children and families in a hospital setting.
• CampOut — Regional CampOut events and home visits for the ‘hole’ family.
• Parent Programs — Programs for parents and caregivers.
• Bereavement program — 0–18 · For families who have lost a child aged 0–18 to serious illness; overnight bereavement program.

All programming is free of charge. Transportation is generally provided by families and volunteers, but assistance can be requested. Applications are reviewed and approved by the medical team. Families are notified of acceptance at the latest four weeks prior to camp. Safety and emotional safety are core values.

What families say

“Through laughter around the camp and especially when we all come together for meals together, stage night, and quiet moments, the various activities… this place became more than just a camp. It became a home.” — Camper dad Daniel

“It was truly a magical experience — one that brought so much joy, comfort, and connection to our family. We felt cheered, supported, and embraced every step of the way.” — Camper mom Lillian

“The overall camp staff, family pals, nurses, volunteers, and every family here helped Michaela—and all of us—rediscover joy beyond illness.” — Camper dad Daniel

Last updated October 19, 2026.