Ronald McDonald Family Camp

A Restorative Weekend for Families 

Friday, August 29th – Monday, September 1st, 2025 
Camp Oneka, Tafton, PA 

family rowing together
Families around a camp fire.

At Ronald McDonald Family Camp, we know that the childhood cancer journey doesn’t end when treatment does. Families still need time to heal, reconnect, and simply enjoy being together. After a successful pilot year in 2024, where families shared how meaningful it was “not to be forgotten” at this stage in their journey, we are excited to expand this program in 2025! This special, expenses-paid retreat is designed for families who have a child who is 1-5 years off of cancer treatment, offering a long weekend of laughter, relaxation, and community in the beautiful Pocono Mountains. 

What to Expect 

Imagine a weekend where your family can just be a family—playing, relaxing, and making new memories together. We offer a balance of adventure and downtime, with activities like watersports, archery, and arts & crafts, as well as peaceful lakeside moments and cozy campfires. Families will also have opportunities to join child and adult group activities, share experiences, and form meaningful connections with others who truly understand the journey.  

A team of social workers from the Ronald McDonald House will be present to support caregivers in ways that feel natural and comfortable. While the weekend is not a therapy program, some activities—such as guided art projects—can offer a creative way to process emotions and express thoughts and feelings that are hard to put into words, while others, like movement, drumming, and nature walks, provide opportunities to relax, reset, and find a sense of balance. The goal is to reduce stress and foster gratitude in a way that feels personal and approachable. 

We keep the weekend tech-free so that families can unplug and focus on what matters most—each other. With just 10-15 families attending, the atmosphere is intimate, supportive, and full of warmth. 

Who is Eligible? 

  • Families with a child who is 1-5 years off cancer treatment. 
  • Children may not already attend Ronald McDonald Camp 
  • Each family may bring two caregivers/guardians and a maximum of three children (ages 5 and above). 
  • Families must commit to attending the entire retreat from Friday to Monday. 
  • A background check is required for all participants over the age of 18. 

How to Apply 

If your family meets the eligibility criteria and would love to be part of this special weekend, we invite you to apply! Space is limited, and an application does not guarantee acceptance. One caregiver will need to complete the application on behalf of the family and provide supporting documents, including a doctor’s note for the patient child. 

Click Here to Apply

Accommodations & Logistics 

  • Location: The weekend will be held at Camp Oneka, a girls’ camp with a 100+ year history. Oneka is a small camp with the biggest heart—families are joyously cared for by their staff and staff from the Ronald McDonald House throughout the weekend. Enjoy being lakeside amid the trees, cabins, adventure course, and sports fields!
  • Lodging: Each family will have a private, rustic cabin with twin-sized bunk beds, an indoor toilet, and a sink. Shower houses are available nearby. Bedding, pillows, and towels will be provided. 
  • Meals: Delicious, home-style meals and snacks are included and served family-style in the dining hall. 
  • Medical Support: There is no formal medical staff on-site. Families are responsible for their own medical needs and must bring all necessary medications. First aid is available, and emergency services are accessible if needed. 
  • Transportation: Families are responsible for their own travel to and from Camp Oneka (325 Route 390; Tafton, PA 18464). Arrival time is between 2 PM – 5 PM on Friday, August 29th, and the weekend concludes at 2 PM on Monday, September 1st. 
  • Substance Free Setting: During the weekend, smoking/vaping, marijuana, alcohol and other substances are not permitted on Camp Oneka property.  

What Families Say About the Weekend 

  • “It allowed us an opportunity to come together and connect free of devices, distractions, and the ordinary burdens of life. After all these kids and families have been through – years of hospital stays, medicine, fear, and anxiety about the future – it was great to be able to just spend time in a beautiful and supportive environment having fun, sharing our experiences, and showing gratitude.” — Parent 
  • “[The weekend] provided such joyful memories for us – we frequently talk about our wonderful bonding weekend. It also provided quality time with other adults that understand our journey – our daughter may look healthy, but our journey is still going on and they understand while many others don’t.” — Parent 
  • “[Family Camp] allowed the kids to develop more confidence by trying activities they have never done before. It allowed us to build lifelong memories. And it also allowed us to reflect, cry and laugh in a way that only other RMH families would understand.” — Parent 

Support Our Mission 

Ronald McDonald Family Camp is made possible through the generosity of donors who believe in the power of connection and support. If you would like to support this retreat and help provide families with a restorative weekend, consider making a donation today. Your contribution ensures that families can attend at no cost, allowing them to focus on what truly matters: quality time together. 

Join us for a weekend of renewal, adventure, and connection at Ronald McDonald Family Camp!