What is Camp Footloose?

Camp Footloose is a unique opportunity for children and young people with arthritis aged 9 to 18 to have fun, meet others who share similar experiences and gain a sense of control over their condition. Our dedicated team of leaders and staff are committed to making the camp an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Activities at the camp include raft building, kayaking, archery, pool games, rock climbing and a bonfire night! We also offer educational sessions facilitated by qualified health professionals, and nursing staff are available 24/7 to assist with medications and other medical matters that may arise.

Our 2026 camp will be taking place at the Point Wolstoncroft Sport and Recreation Centre at Lake Macquarie, we are excited to welcome this year’s camp participants to this beautiful spot!

Kids Kayaking and paddling out on a lake

Online Parent Information Session

This year we will be running a virtual parent information session via zoom to deliver all the information on what’s in store at Camp Footloose 2026 and to answer any questions you might have.

Whether you’re curious about the activities the kids will be enjoying or you are looking for reassurance or detail around medical support, we will cover all aspects of the camp in this interactive session.

Register for the parent info session below. If you are unable to make this day/time register anyway, as we will share a link to the session recording after the event to ensure you have access to all the information you need to make an informed decision about your child attending Camp Footloose.

Kids toasting marshmellows around a camp fire

Cost & Subsidies

Footloose is a four day residential camp and costs $500 per child to attend.

The Arthritis Movement understands the financial strain that comes with raising a child with a chronic illness like Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). For families who may find the cost a barrier to attending camp we provide help in the form of camp ticket and/or travel* subsidy depending on needs. Please keep in mind that submitting an application does not guarantee a financial or travel subsidy. Funds to support subsidies vary year to year and depend on the funds available to support subsidies, as well as the number of applications received.  Each family may only apply for a ticket or a travel subsidy, not both.

If you wish to apply for a subsidy the closing date for submissions is Monday 31st August 2026. 

The Arthritis Movement will review applications based the funding available and inform families of the outcome of their application by Monday 7th September.  

 *travel subsidies are only available for families living more than 400km from the camp location.


Testimonials from Camp Footloose


For more information please contact our team directly

Camp Dates

Wed 19 Aug

Parent Information Session – Camp Footloose 2026

Live virtual session via Zoom to deliver key information on Camp Footloose to prospective families with a chance to ask questions. If you are unable to make this day/time please still register as a recording will be sent out after the event.

Tue 06 Oct

Camp Footloose: 2026

Point Wolstoncroft Sport and Recreation Centre, Kanangra Dr, Point Wolstoncroft NSW 2259