Our History
In 1982, C.O.C.A., Children's Oncology Camps of America was founded by a dozen pioneer oncology camps. The personnel from these twelve camps found the lives of children with cancer were immeasurably enhanced by camping. Noting their similar experiences, these visionary souls believed a forum should be created to share their ideas and experiences. That forum known as C.O.C.A. currently consists of over 65 member camps from within the United States.
There are also several member camps from the Canadian provinces and several camps located on faraway contents such as Australia, New Zealand and Europe. In 1996, C.O.C.A. officially changed its name to Children's Oncology Camping Association, International, to incorporate these camps outside the United States.
COCA-I meets annually at a conference that is hosted by a member camp