What ages does Camp Lightbulb accept?

Camp Lightbulb is open to children ages 14–18. Camps publish their own age cutoffs, and some run mixed-age groups internally; check the registration page for that summer's grouping if your child sits at a boundary.

How much does Camp Lightbulb cost?

Camp Lightbulb doesn't publish a flat per-week rate — pricing varies by session. USD. Financial aid may be available, but details are not provided. Contact the camp directly for the current schedule of fees.

What are Camp Lightbulb's hours?

Camp Lightbulb runs 24-hour residential. If those hours don't quite cover your work day, check whether extended care or early drop-off is offered separately.

Who runs Camp Lightbulb?

Camp Lightbulb is operated by a nonprofit organization, with 10 years of operating history. The operator type matters for tuition policy (refunds, financial aid eligibility) and for what kind of staff training pipeline the camp uses.

Does Camp Lightbulb provide lunch?

Camp Lightbulb does not include lunch — campers bring their own. Most day camps without provided lunch are nut-free or nut-aware, so check the allergy policy before packing. Frozen water bottles double as ice packs and drinks; insulated lunch boxes hold below 40°F for about four hours.

▌ Overnight/Sleepaway · Ages 14–18

Camp Lightbulb

Camp Lightbulb offers a safe and empowering overnight summer camp experience for LGBTQ+ youth aged 14-18 in Palm Springs, focusing on community, self-discove...

▌ Editor's read Camp Lightbulb is an overnight summer camp for LGBTQ+ youth aged 14-18, operating since 2014, making it 10 years old. The website loads successfully and clearly outlines its mission to provide a safe and affirming space. The camp is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. While not ACA accredited, the site emphasizes safety measures, including background checks for all staff and a 24/7 medical team. The founder is Matt Kaplan. The camp has a strong social media presence with an Instagram handle @camplightbulb and a Facebook page 'camplightbulb'. Google reviews show a rating of 5.0 stars from 10 reviews, with positive comments highlighting the supportive environment and positive impact on campers. The program focuses on community building, self-expression, and traditional camp activities tailored to the LGBTQ+ community.

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Since 201610+ years operating

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Nonprofit operator501(c)(3) tax-exempt

Shortlist in planner → Visit website

Who thrives here Ages 14–18

Camp Lightbulb serves high-school campers, which means the program is competing against summer jobs, college visits, internships, and residential overnight options. The case for a day camp at this age is usually a CIT (counselor-in-training) track, deep specialization in overnight/sleepaway, or a portfolio item parents and kids both value. Programs that don't articulate one of those three usually lose this age band by 9th grade.

Facts & Credentials

Program type: Overnight camp
ACA accredited: Not verified
Established: 2016 (10 years)
Operator: Nonprofit organization
Staff-to-camper ratio: Not listed

How we verify these →

Details

Category: Overnight/Sleepaway
Ages: 14–18
Hours: 24-hour residential
Address: 301 N Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 103-161, Palm Springs, CA 92262, USA
Cost notes: USD. Financial aid may be available, but details are not provided.

Logistics

Lunch provided: No
Transportation: No
Financial aid: No
Setting: mixed

Frequently asked about Camp Lightbulb

What ages does Camp Lightbulb accept?: Camp Lightbulb is open to children ages 14–18. Camps publish their own age cutoffs, and some run mixed-age groups internally; check the registration page for that summer's grouping if your child sits at a boundary.
How much does Camp Lightbulb cost?: Camp Lightbulb doesn't publish a flat per-week rate — pricing varies by session. USD. Financial aid may be available, but details are not provided. Contact the camp directly for the current schedule of fees.
What are Camp Lightbulb's hours?: Camp Lightbulb runs 24-hour residential. If those hours don't quite cover your work day, check whether extended care or early drop-off is offered separately.
Who runs Camp Lightbulb?: Camp Lightbulb is operated by a nonprofit organization, with 10 years of operating history. The operator type matters for tuition policy (refunds, financial aid eligibility) and for what kind of staff training pipeline the camp uses.
Does Camp Lightbulb provide lunch?: Camp Lightbulb does not include lunch — campers bring their own. Most day camps without provided lunch are nut-free or nut-aware, so check the allergy policy before packing. Frozen water bottles double as ice packs and drinks; insulated lunch boxes hold below 40°F for about four hours.

Planning guides

Editorial checklists to use before you compare Camp Lightbulb with other camps.

How to choose a summer camp · Use the decision checklist before you compare finalists.
Day camp vs. overnight camp · Decide whether the format fits your child and schedule.
Packing list and camp prep · Plan gear, medication notes, labels, and drop-off prep.
Summer camp pricing in 2026 · Benchmark weekly cost before you commit a deposit.

Camps near here

Same city, with age-overlapping options first. Other camps to consider alongside Camp Lightbulb.

Camp Lightbulb - Friends & Family Weekend · Camp Lightbulb · Ages 14–18
Camp Lightbulb - New York City Squad · Camp Lightbulb · Ages 14–18