Camp Rainbow Gold: Bringing Hope and Healing to Idaho Families

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family feels the impact. Beyond the medical treatments and hospital visits, there are countless emotional and social challenges—missed milestones, isolation from peers, and the heavy weight of worry. In Idaho, one nonprofit has been working tirelessly to bring joy, community, and healing back into these children’s lives: Camp Rainbow Gold.

A Story That Began with One Child

Camp Rainbow Gold was born in the 1980s when a young boy battling cancer was told he couldn’t attend a traditional summer camp. A local surgeon, Dr. David McClusky, believed otherwise—and with that conviction, the first camp was held. What started as a small gathering has grown into a year-round organization serving hundreds of families across the state.

More Than a Camp

At its heart, Camp Rainbow Gold offers much more than a week in the mountains. Its programs are designed to support not just children with cancer, but also their siblings and caregivers. Among the offerings are:

• Youth and Teen Oncology Camps: Safe, fun environments where kids and teens with cancer can simply be kids again.

• Sibling Camps: A chance for brothers and sisters to share their own stories and find support.

• Family Camps and Retreats: Helping entire families connect, recharge, and heal together.

All programs are provided free of charge, ensuring no family is excluded because of financial strain.

Hidden Paradise: A Permanent Home

In 2019, Camp Rainbow Gold purchased 172 acres in Fairfield, Idaho, now known as Hidden Paradise Camp. This site is being developed into Idaho’s first medical camp—a permanent, accessible, and fully equipped facility where children with serious medical conditions can safely enjoy nature, friendship, and adventure.

Why It Matters

Cancer takes so much from children and their families—normalcy, freedom, and sometimes even hope. Camp Rainbow Gold exists to give those things back. From the silly campfire skits to the lifelong friendships formed, these experiences help kids see themselves beyond their illness and help families find a community that truly understands.

How You Can Help

Camp Rainbow Gold relies on the generosity of donors, volunteers, and community partners to keep its programs running. Whether through a donation, volunteering at camp, or simply spreading the word, every bit of support helps ensure Idaho families never have to face childhood cancer alone.