Rec CAMP
Community. Architecture. Management. Planning.
Save the Date: April 6-8, 2027
April 7-9, 2026 Dallas, TX
Registration is open! Save with our Early Bird Special!
Planning a renovation or considering a new recreation center?
You need Rec CAMP.
Rec CAMP is a conference like none other, offering professionals in community recreation a chance to explore design and operations through hands-on tours of exemplary centers. Attendees will observe innovative architectural solutions and strategies in action. Workshops cover topics ranging from staffing retention practices to creative programming that enhances community engagement. Participants collaborate with experts and peers, sharing insights to implement in their centers.
Focusing on community connection, Rec CAMP serves as a platform for growth and inspiration, providing valuable knowledge and networking opportunities for recreation directors, facility managers, and related professionals.
“As Assistant Town Manager preparing for our Town's first bond referendum, Rec CAMP gave me valuable hands-on experience in recreation center operations, management, and balancing costs for a successful project.”
Past Rec CAMP Attendee
What’s included
2.5 days of rec-focused education (and a little bit of fun, too!)
Guided tours of 7 recreation centers
Q&As with community recreation center operators
4 Education Sessions with leaders in the field
Earn continuing education units (CEUs)
Lunch Day 1 & 2
Networking Social
Transportation to and from all activities*
*Transportation to and from the airport not included. Bus departs from and drops off at our host hotel each day.
C.A.M.P.
stands for…
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Community is our conference's core value. Connect with fellow CAMPers from across North America starting from the very first session. Engage with staff during facility tours, learn from peers in the parks & recreation field, and develop long-lasting relationships with fellow rec professionals.
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We tour community rec centers, from newly opened to 25 years old. Facilities range from smaller neighborhood centers to a 150,000 sf supercenter. We explore growing suburban communities while your architect "counselors" provide insight on the design's impact on staffing, programming, and cost recovery. How can you maximize participation through smart design?
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Operations encompass all thoughts and decisions regarding the design and planning of an indoor recreation center. Learn how to determine FTEs, attendance, admission fees, and programming. Discuss management challenges and opportunities with Recreation Supervisors, Directors, and Superintendents. What questions would you ask fellow operators if given the chance?
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The knowledge you gain throughout Rec CAMP will help plan a strategy for the next steps in your own community. Learn about funding mechanisms each community employed and the importance of understanding your market. A role-playing exercise on the last day teaches teams to plan with constituents' needs in mind and right-size a building program to match resources. How will you engage your community to meet their needs and wants?
Make the case
Need help justifying your attendance? See our one-page info sheet.