From Sunday, May 10 through Monday, May 11. For public safety, certain hiking trails are restricted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Camp Colley
Welcome to the Camp Colley webpage! Here you'll find everything you need to know about the City of Phoenix's youth overnight camp.
What is Camp Colley?
Camp Colley is a 30-acre outdoor adventure camp located on the Mogollon Rim, approximately 50 miles north of Payson, Arizona. The camp is named after former Phoenix Parks and Recreation Director James A. Colley. The camp mission is aligned with Mr. Colley’s vision to provide structured, supervised outdoor nature education and experiences for youth. Over the years, Camp Colley has provided wonderful outdoor experiences for thousands of children by teaching respect for the environment and highlighting the miracles of nature. Camp Colley is an inclusive camp that is open to neurodiverse and neurotypical youth, and is a place where campers will learn leadership skills, enhance their development, and make lifelong friendships and memories.
Background
In November 2023, the Parks and Recreation Department entered into an agreement with the Harden Education and Recreation Therapy Foundation (The H.E.A.R.T Center) as the official operator of the camp. The H.E.A.R.T. Center brings over a decade of experience in inclusive, therapeutic outdoor education designed for youth with special needs, at-risk backgrounds, and neurodiverse learning profiles.The H.E.A.R.T. Center was established in 2014 with a mission to use horses and recreational therapy as a foundation for alternative education for youth with special needs. From 2008 to 2014, the Founder and Executive Director of The H.E.A.R.T Center led therapeutic youth programming through an equine therapy facility in Scottsdale that included overnight outdoor camps for four weeks each summer at Camp Colley, in conjunction with Camp Colley staff.
2026 Summer Camp Schedule
- Week 1: June 15 - 18: Adventure Camp & Teen Leadership (CIT)
- Week 2: June 22 - 25: Adventure Camp & Teen Leadership (CIT)
- Week 3: July 7 - 9: Adventure Camp & Teen Leadership (CIT)
- Week 4: July 13 - 16: Adventure Camp & Teen Leadership (CIT)
- Week 5: July 20 - 23: Adventure Camp & Teen Leadership (CIT)
Adventure Camp
Adventure Camp is for ages 7-15 years of age. Campers spend their week building confidence, independence and leadership through outdoor recreation and connection.
Teen Leadership (CIT) Program
The Teen Leadership Program is a Counselor-in-Training (CIT) experience for teens ages 16–17. Offered during every camp session, this program provides hands-on leadership training, job readiness coaching, and professional experience in youth mentorship. Teens participate in all camp activities while gaining real-world skills in responsibility, communication, and recreation support. All CIT participants will complete additional leadership and safety training prior to attending camp, either virtually or in person.
Pricing
Youth Camp and Teen Leadership (CIT) Program Cost:
- $250 per camper
City of Phoenix residents MUST register though ActiveNet to receive resident pricing.
Camp fees include:
- Transportation to and from camp (space is limited; must register early to guarantee a spot)
- All meals and snacks
- Lodging, programming and supplies
All summer 2026 camp opportunities are available through the City’s ActiveNet online registration system.
View Camp Options
View available camp options for the 2026.
- image
- image
- image
- image
Where is Camp Colley located?
Camp Colley is a 30-acre outdoor adventure camp located in Happy Jack, Arizona. It is owned by the City of Phoenix and operated by the H.E.A.R.T. Center. The exact address is not posted online for camper safety, but transportation and directions are provided upon registration.
Contact Information
For questions about Camp Colley, contact The H.E.A.R.T. Center: 480-452-8606 or email: hello@theheart-center.com