CAMP HOPE COSTA RICA 2026 INFO & FAQ’S
What are the dates?
The dates for Camp Hope Costa Rica 2026 are January 1-9
Arrive - Jan. 1
Camp Set Up - Jan. 2
Camp - Jan. 3-7
Debrief - Jan. 8
Depart - Jan. 9
Where is camp located?
Camp Hope has partnered with Campamento Bautista not far from the San Jose airport. The team that runs this camp is as passionate as we are about loving God and loving kids.
How old do you have to be to be a part of the Camp Hope team?
Camp Hope started as a way for families to do mission trips together. Our youngest team member has been 8 and our oldest 78 (but don’t let that limit you)!
How many people go on the trip?
We will take up to 20 international team members, and we will complete our staff team in Costa Rica with an amazing group of committed Costa Ricans.
What roles are there at camp?
In Costa Rica, the main role on our team is as “support staff” for camp. We can be band members, craft coordinators, camp photographer, videographer, camp nurse, operations & logistics team, activity coordinator, and camp cabin relief team.
How much does it cost to be a part of the team?
The cost of Camp Hope Costa Rica 2026 is approximately $1,500. This includes airfare, accommodations, insurance, luggage fees, most meals, ground transportation, and camp fees.
Who leads the trips?
The Costa Rican leadership team will run camp. US team leader, Amy Foley can answer questions and will coordinate the international team.
Do I need vaccinations?
We do require every team member to fill out a health form. Even though we don’t expect it, we want to always be prepared to offer you the best care if you need medical assistance or experience a medical emergencies. As far as vaccines, the CDC recommends your routine vaccinations and Hepatitis A.
Where will we go?
We will fly into San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica and take a bus ride to our campsite. At the end of camp we will debrief, celebrate our time in Costa Rica, and spend a day in San Jose.
What will we be doing?
You’re at camp! Your “job” is to be involved with your campers - making crafts, swimming, playing gaga ball, participating in “big games” and “night games”, discussing the messages, singing, dancing, and being silly - we’re in the relationship building business. At Camp Hope we call participating and interacting with campers at all times and in all circumstances being “All In”. As we intentionally invest time, we get the great privilege of becoming friends, and then the added benefit of loving and encouraging them. You will also help the campers follow our 3 main rules:
No hurts
Stick together
Have fun.
What do I need to pack?
The weather in Costa Rica tends to be warm this time of year. Plan for sunny and warm (shirts and a t-shirt). Pack a pair of old tennis shoes (for running around with your campers) and a bathing suit for getting wet. There will be a more detailed list provided in the team meetings.
When do I get to meet the team I’m traveling with?
Before we leave for camp we have Zoom team meetings for information, planning, and team-building.
IMPORTANT dates & deadlines:
September 1 - Staff Applications go live for Costa Rica 2026. $250 deposit due with application
October 18 - TEAM MEETING #1 ($500 due)
November 16 - TEAM MEETING #2 ($500 due)
December 14 - TEAM MEETING #3 ($250 due)
January 1, 2026 - DEPARTURE DATE meet at Richmond International Airport at 5am (if departing from RVA)
What does a day at camp look like?
A day in Costa Rica starts with our team meeting which includes logistics, announcements, and devotions, before the kids get up. Following our meeting the day kicks into high gear. We eat breakfast all together before heading to the morning worship meeting. This is followed by discussion time and then sports tournaments or free recreation time. After lunch, groups rotate through crafts, water games, and dance/music. We have our big game in the afternoon which might include relays, capture the flag, or staff hunt. We have another big meeting in the evening followed by discussion time. In Costa Rica, the campers invite a special guest over to their cabin for “Milk & cookies” before getting ready for bed. Once your cabin is asleep you have the option to pass out, hang with the team, have a snack, play a game, or enjoy late night worship.