Camp For All Chappell Hill Set to Open in 2027, Doubling Access to Barrier-Free Camping in Texas
A new chapter of hope, adventure, and inclusion is on the horizon for Texas families. Camp For All, a nationally recognized nonprofit transforming the lives of children and adults with challenging illnesses or special needs, is officially expanding. In summer 2027, the organization will open its second location—Camp For All Chappell Hill—effectively doubling its annual camper capacity and deepening its impact across the state.
Since 1998, Camp For All has served nearly 200,000 campers through its original 206-acre barrier-free location in Burton, Texas. Now, with growing demand for adaptive programming and inclusive spaces, the new Chappell Hill site will allow thousands more individuals to experience camp without limitations—where possibilities shine and challenges do not define potential.
Designed for Accessibility, Built for Adventure
Camp For All Chappell Hill sits on nearly 380 acres generously donated by the Charles Jago Elder Foundation, created in memory of Nick Elder. Every inch of the site—from the camper cabins and pool complex to the trails and dining hall—has been intentionally designed to eliminate physical and emotional barriers.
Highlights of the Chappell Hill campus include:
- 20 barrier-free cabins with adult-sized changing tables and water bottle stations
- A 400-seat dining hall with multifunctional cooking space, indoor ropes course, and stage
- A state-of-the-art pool complex with lazy river, beach entry, and wheelchair accessibility
- Outdoor play pavilion, archery range, lakefront for canoeing, zipline and rope swing
- Health center with 24/7 care provided by Partner medical staff
- Arts & Crafts Barn and Camper Kitchen for hands-on creativity
All elements were shaped through a collaborative process involving campers, their families, partner organizations, medical professionals, and accessibility experts.
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Every Ability, Every Adventure
From the start, Camp For All’s mission has been to create a truly inclusive camp environment where children and adults with challenging conditions can experience independence, joy, and community. That mission was born in 1993 from a shared vision between two Houston physicians—Dr. Paul Gerson and Dr. Robert Zeller—and Larry Neuhaus, a father who lost his son to cancer. They dreamed of a place that embraced individuals of all abilities and offered the full magic of camp, without compromise.
“From the very beginning, Bob, Larry, and I dreamed of creating a place where discovering life was possible and challenges would never define potential,” said Dr. Gerson. “That dream became Camp For All, and today it flourishes in Burton because of the generosity, support, and dedication of countless people who believed in our mission.”
Now, the same inclusive spirit is coming to Chappell Hill, where campers will continue to discover what they can do—building confidence, forming friendships, and realizing they are not alone.
A National Model with Deep Texas Roots
Camp For All partners with over 65 nonprofit organizations to deliver its programming year-round. These Partner groups bring campers and counselors, while Camp For All provides the barrier-free environment, expert staff, and accessible facilities. Campers range from children with cancer or autism to adults with traumatic brain injuries, with each session tailored to their unique needs.
The organization was nationally recognized in 2017 with the Eleanor P. Eells Award from the American Camp Association for its groundbreaking Camp For All 2U program, which brings camp experiences directly into hospitals.
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Help Blaze the Final Trail
The development of Camp For All Chappell Hill is part of the “Blazing New Trails” capital campaign—a $61.3 million effort covering design, construction, and start-up operations. With 95% of funds raised, Camp For All is calling on the community to help complete the final 5% and ensure the camp opens fully equipped to serve 9,000 campers per year.
“Your gift will help us blaze the final steps of the trail and create a legacy of inclusion and joy for generations to come,” said Mary Beth Mosley, Camp For All’s Development Director.
To learn more about Camp For All and how you can support their mission, visit campforall.org/camp-for-all-chappell-hill.
This milestone expansion is more than just a new camp—it’s a promise that every person, no matter their challenges, deserves the chance to laugh, grow, and discover all that life has to offer.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
