Overnight Camps - Camp Fire First Texas

A sharp smell of fresh cut grass, distant laughter and “ker-splash!” at the pool. Ripping open a letter that sings of home, softly talking while playing cards or painstakingly making sure each thread of a friendship bracelet is “just right”- these small moments are the glue that bind a summer at camp. Since 1934, Camp El Tesoro‘s overnight camp has inspired youth in all moments, quiet and loud – to DO and BE!

The wide range of activities and programs create opportunities that show each camper they can achieve whatever they set their minds to. Hiking through wooded terrain to Mt. Loma, singing songs with friends around the campfire and zip lining on the challenge course are more than just fun activities; they are moments for campers to learn and thrive. Camp offers exciting times, but the moments in-between solidify the friendships and the personal growth that keep our campers coming back each year.

Safe Summer Practices & Precautions: Covid-19

Come to a free Camp Preview this spring!

Questions? Contact Us

El Tesoro’s overnight camp has inspired boys & girls to let their curiosity be their guide – to nature, their world and what they can accomplish! Age appropriate activities develop confidence in our campers while they build new skills and make new friends in the outdoors. The wide range of activities from horseback riding and archery to crafts, swimming and drama create opportunities that show each camper they can achieve whatever they set their minds to.

Camp activities encourage a growth mindset.
See the typical daily schedule and see the packing guide.
Watch our virtual tour video.
Read our Overnight Camp Frequently Asked Questions.

Equestrian Specialty Session Details

Campers spend the week intensely focused on equestrian studies, learning everything from anatomy to grooming to riding styles while still enjoying camp activities that create life-long bonds. Grades 4-10, limited to 40 campers.

Read the Overnight Camper Guide

Open the availability chart full size.

June 6 – July 23, 2021

Attend a free Camp Preview day.

Four Day Sessions $545

Grades 1 – 3
June 6 – 9, Session A4
June 20 – 23, Session C4
July 4 – 7, Session E4

Six Day Sessions $780

Grades 1 – 10
June 6 – 11, Session A
June 13 – 18, Session B
June 20 – 25, Session C
June 27 – July 2, Session D
July 4 – 9, Session E
July 11 – 16, Session F
July 18 – 23, Session G

Equestrian Session $780

Grades 4 – 10
July 18 – 23, Session EQ

Thirteen Day Sessions $1,435

Grades 4 – 10
June 27 – July 9, Session DE
July 11 – 23, Session FG

CIT Sessions $1,515

Grades 11 – 12
1st Year – June 26 – July 23
1.5 Year – June 5 – July 2
2nd Year – June 5 – July 2
CIT applications are accessed through the registration system

Scholarships

Scholarship applications closed February 1, 2021.

Want to be notified if scholarship applications reopen for Summer 2021? Complete this form.

Campership assistance is limited and awarded based on a variety of factors, including annual household income, date the application is received, number of people in the household, and extenuating circumstances.

Specialized Programs

TORCHBEARER PROGRAM

Learning to Lead: Torchbearer Program for campers in 9th and 10th grades attending a 13-day session.
(not offered in summer 2021)

INCLUSION PROGRAM

Inclusion Program for campers with mild intellectual or developmental disabilities.

COUNSELOR-IN-TRAINING PROGRAM

Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program for campers in 11th and 12th grades.

OUR STAFF

Our trained staff make the difference. Many have attended El Tesoro as campers themselves. Prior to campers arriving, all staff participate in an intensive week-long on-site training where they learn to help each child thrive at camp by allowing them to explore their personal interests, make healthy choices, develop social skills and have fun. Camp Fire programs offer an environment where youth can learn through active exploration and interaction with program staff trained to observe and engage youth to support, extend and clarify learning. Each year Camp El Tesoro builds a team of more than 50 counselors, activity specialists, support roles, and supervisors to create the best possible summer for our campers.

Visit our careers page to see current openings

COME TO A 2021 FREE CAMP PREVIEW

Sunday, April 18; 1-4 p.m.
Sunday, May 16; 1-4 p.m.

A mini-camp awaits your whole family at a Camp Preview. Experience what El Tesoro has to offer at one of these come-and-go events!

Archery
Nature Hike
Cabin Tours
Director Q&A*

*activities subject to change

RSVP for a preview

Have more questions?

Call us at 817.831.2111

or

As we get older we are told that there isn’t any magic in the world. That it doesn’t really exist. But I don’t think that’s true. Camp is magic. The things we do, the friends we make, the buildings and being close to nature – it’s special here. It makes me happy, and that’s magic.

8th grade boy

My daughters have attended Camp El Tesoro 5 and 8 consecutive years, respectively. Every year they count the days until camp. And when I pick them up they are energized with tales of new friendships and adventure. What a wonderful program. Bravo.

Chris Carter

I used to get homesick my first few years at camp. It never stopped me from having fun, though. Now, when I’m at home, I get camp sick. I miss being at El Tesoro when I’m not here.

El Tesoro Camper

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