Firefighting & rope rescue
Work a charged hose line, practice rescue knots, and rappel with our instructors. Campers try firefighters’ breathing equipment, climb aerial ladders, and learn to use a fire extinguisher.
Kids Fire Camp
A free, week-long firefighting camp for ages 10 to 14, run by the volunteers of Gaston Fire & Rescue in Gaston, NC. Campers practice firefighting, rescue, CPR, and first aid with local first responders. Campers from all communities are welcome.
Applications are closed
10th YearCelebrated in 2026
FreeTo Attend
Ages 10–14Youth Camp
LocalVolunteer Led
What to Expect
Kids Fire Camp brings young people together with firefighters, EMS crews, law enforcement, and other local responders. In 2026, campers practiced rappelling, worked charged hose lines, and learned CPR and first aid with Halifax County EMS.
The week includes outdoor activities and team competitions, with families joining campers for graduation. Volunteers and community supporters help keep camp free to attend.
A camper rappels from the training loft in a helmet and harness
A camper practices CPR with Halifax County EMS
Campers in life jackets gather with a diver-down flag
Campers gather on a wildlife patrol boat with officers
Inside Kids Fire Camp
Activities from past camps. The schedule and visiting agencies vary each year.
CPR, first aid & Stop the Bleed
Practice CPR and first aid with emergency medical crews. Camp has also included Stop the Bleed training, giving campers another way to help someone who is hurt.
River & lake days
Snorkeling, rafting, kayaking, fishing, and time on the boats take camp beyond the station. On lake day, campers learn how boats operate and practice rescue swims.
Search & outdoor survival
Search for victims in simulated smoke, work through the rat maze, and practice using breathing apparatus. Hug-a-Tree & Survive teaches campers what to do if they get lost in the woods.
Meet local first responders
Explore patrol cars and equipment, ask troopers about road safety, and see how investigators find the cause of a fire. Visiting wildlife officers and Forest Service crews introduce local wildlife, wildfire response, and the equipment they use.
Team competitions & graduation
Water slides and games make room for fun between lessons. The week finishes with families cheering on rescue-knot and CPR challenges, firefighter and rescue relays, bucket brigade, and water tug-of-war, followed by graduation and awards.
Camp Stories & Recognition
Former Kids Fire Camp Participant Puts Training Into Action
“He knew exactly what to do and did not panic.”
Parent of a former Kids Fire Camp participant
A child who attended Kids Fire Camp around 2022 recently relied on that training to help his sister when she began to lose consciousness.
Read the Full Story
Congressman Don Davis Recognizes Gaston's Kids Fire Camp
In 2026, Congressman Don Davis sent a letter recognizing our tenth year of Kids Fire Camp. District Director Kimberly Mack presented it at graduation.
Read the Letter StoryThank You to Our 2026 Meal Supporters
Local businesses helped feed campers throughout the week and brought families and staff together for graduation.
Abner's Drive-In
Second Street Lunch
Support a Future Camp
Contact our volunteer team about meals, supplies, or other ways to help.
Our 2026 Partner Agencies
Halifax County EMS
North Carolina State Highway Patrol
Halifax County Sheriff's Office
Roanoke Rapids Police Department
Northampton County Emergency Management
Roanoke Rapids Fire Department
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Weldon Fire Department
Frequently Asked Questions
Kids Fire Camp is a free, week-long immersive program hosted by Gaston Fire & Rescue. Campers ages 10–14 learn real firefighting and emergency response skills in a safe, supervised, and fun environment at our station and training facilities.
Kids Fire Camp is completely FREE for all participants. The program is funded through community sponsors and the volunteer efforts of our firefighters.
Children ages 10 through 14 are eligible to participate.
Registration dates are announced after the next camp session is confirmed. Check this page for the current registration status and deadline.
Camp takes place at the Gaston Fire & Rescue main station and surrounding training facilities located at 210 Old Emporia Road, Gaston, NC.
Activities can include first aid and CPR practice, hose handling, rope rescue, water safety, ladders, breathing apparatus, and other emergency-response skills taught by trained instructors.
Campers should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. We recommend bringing a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a positive attitude. All equipment and gear is provided by the department.
Capacity depends on the confirmed camp schedule, staffing, and available equipment. Current availability is shared when registration opens.
Gaston Fire & Rescue volunteers lead camp with visiting fire, EMS, law enforcement, emergency management, and wildlife personnel.
No experience is needed. Instructors introduce campers to the equipment and skills they will practice. All gear and equipment is provided.
Yes. Kids ages 10 through 14 from any community are welcome to apply when registration opens. Campers do not have to live in Gaston or Northampton County. Camp takes place in Gaston, North Carolina.
Safety leads every station. Campers practice with instructors and protective equipment appropriate to each activity. Contact our team before applying to discuss your child’s needs.
Reach out through our contact page or call us at (252) 537-8279. We’re happy to answer any questions about the program.
Planning Ahead?
Registration is currently closed. Contact our volunteer team with questions about a future camp, and watch our website for confirmed registration dates.
Ask About Fire Camp