2026 Annual FISH Veteran Family Campout

So many veteran events focus on the veterans, but rarely include the family. We are looking to change that with this campout. If you aren't familiar with Friends In Service of Heroes (FISH) https://friendsinserviceofheroes.org/, we started out in 2011 feeding troops through "Heroes Dinners" to recognize them for their service and sacrifices. During this weekend event, we will not only feed you, but feed your soul through camaraderie, fun, games, self-guided nature hikes, and even campfire s'mores.

Who can come? Any veteran and their family members! This also includes those currently serving in our armed forces, national guard units, and reserves. Don't worry, spouses or kids are not required for veterans to come out and enjoy the fun!

Agenda (subject to change)

Friday June 26th:

• Bring your own dinner! (Pack a cooler, make a picnic basket, or even grab a pizza at Casey's on the way)
• 4:00 PM Arrival & Camp Setup Begins
• 7:30 PM S'mores and official welcome, with Meet & Greet afterwards.

Saturday June 27th:

• 8:00 AM Breakfast is served (scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes OR biscuits & gravy)
• 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Optional activities for the kids (scavenger hunt, arts, crafts, etc.)
• 11:30 AM Lunch (build your own sandwich bar)
• 12:30 PM - 5:00 PM Free time & swimming
• 5:30 PM Dinner (street tacos)
• 8:00 PM maybe more s'mores???

Sunday June 28th

• 8:00 AM Breakfast is served (scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes OR biscuits & gravy)
• 9:00 AM optional non-denominational church service
• 10:30 AM start to breakdown campsites, and clean up the camp
• Depart at your leisure

There are conveniently located restrooms & showers next to the campsites and pool, so don't be worried about being too primitive. We will be covering all of your meals while you camp with us, with the exception of Friday dinner (we can't predict when everyone will arrive!).

Here are some important reminders and items you won't want to forget:

• Bring basic camping supplies: Tent, sleeping bag/bed roll, pillow (maybe an air mattress or cot?) We will have the campsite setup in a large grassy area, so it will be soft for pitching a tent and sleeping
• Folding camping chair (with your name on it)
• Fishing gear for the pond (Catch & Release)
• Flashlight with extra batteries and maybe a battery lantern for outside your tent
• Toiletry and shower kit (Soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, shower shoes/sandals)
• Family-appropriate Swimming attire for everyone and towels --> Don't forget SUNSCREEN!
• Hiking shoes (I recommend pants for hiking to avoid insect bites and poison ivy)
• Insect repellant/bug spray
• Snacks & Drinks, in case you get the afternoon or evening munchies
• Hopefully it won't rain, but the Eagle Scout side of me will say to bring rain gear/poncho
• Cards or other fun games for the evening
• Please label all of your items, so we can get everything returned to you if lost
• Any prescription medications (including inhalers, epi-pens, etc.)

Basic Rules:

• Due to the high fire risk, no smoking (we are working to establish a designated safe smoking area)
• Please do not bring pets. Certified service dogs, trained to perform a task directly related to person's disability are acceptable.
• No firearms!
• Be courteous, pick up after yourself. If you see trash blowing around, grab it and put it in a trash can or bag.
• When going on Nature hikes, ALWAYS use the "Buddy System" and never go out alone.

If you are having trouble sourcing items for camping, or need special accommodations, please reach out to me. This also includes any special dietary needs. I posted the menu so you can see what we will be serving for food and plan ahead if needed.

You might ask, "If these is all free, why do I have to pay $25-35 to register?" The answer is simple. We need some form of commitment from you that you will be coming for an accurate headcount. Unlike using Facebook Events where everyone clicks <going> and never actually shows up, this will give us a better number to plan for and purchase food so nobody goes hungry. If you want to help offset the costs of this event, there is also a donation button on the ticket purchase page. Also consider being a camp sponsor!

Google Map Link w/Pictures: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SKphPm8TgbXB7qXL7