Camp K near Salt Lake City is a unique, special place designed for people of all abilities. The camp exists to serve, inspire, care for, and make a difference in people’s lives. Since 1967, Kostopulos Dream Foundation (Camp K) has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for people of all abilities (including those with disabilities) through education, recreation, and growth opportunities. In summer 2020, when most summer camps were closed because of COVID-19, Camp K continued to serve their communities.
Camp K is extremely inclusive – serving people of all ages (children/teens/adults), people with cognitive and physical challenges, people with and without disabilities, people from different socio-economic backgrounds, beliefs, religions, and cultures. Campers and staff come to Camp K from all over the United States and the world.
Camp K is located on a beautiful 25-acre property in Emigration Canyon – a hidden peaceful oasis just minutes from the city. Camp K’s facilities include a lodge with offices and dining hall, 6 cabins, 5 yurts, 2 painted tipis, a heated swimming pool, bath house, infirmary, equestrian center, ropes courses, zip line, sport court, activities field, fishing pond, pavilion, paved patio, and fire-pit area, and multiple trails.
Mircea Divricean, President and CEO of Camp K says: “We chose yurts because they look good in a natural setting, and blend very well into the environment. Yurts provide a unique environment for learning – giving the students an opportunity to be inspired, creative, and innovative. The round shape also symbolizes inclusion and diversity – there are no corners. When we gather our campers in a circle, whether it be around a campfire or in a yurt, all feel equal and appreciated.”
When expanding the facilities at Camp K, they analyzed several potential vendors based on products, quality, and reviews. They decided that Colorado Yurt Company sets the standard in working with camps, and Camp K decided to purchase their first yurt in 2013. Camp K/Kostopulos Dream Foundation is a non-profit organization, having received 7 consecutive 4-star ratings from Charity Navigator. This is the highest ranking available, and is awarded based on commitment to transparency, accountability, and fiscal fitness. Because of Colorado Yurt Company’s reasonable pricing offered to non-profits, and the quality of the products, Camp K gets the best value for the buck.
Mircea says, “Our campers, staff, and families love our yurts! We have used our yurts as gathering and learning spaces for many years. This summer, we have added 2 additional yurts as sleeping quarters. Our campers love the yurts, and are excited when they discover that they will be spending time in them. Families are amazed at how accessible and comfortable they are – they enjoy the rustic feel of the mountains, with a secure, well-lit, climate-controlled sanctuary.”
Camp K has a long history with the Colorado Yurt Company. Mircea says, “From the beginning, the Colorado Yurt team has been very supportive, personable, and responsive to requests. Colorado Yurt has been there for us in emergencies, helped with repairs, and have always been on time and supportive of our needs.”