A Weekend of Connection, Community & Campfires in the Pines
Every June, something truly special happens in the tall pines of Prescott, Arizona. Camp Knot a Phe, hosted by the Arizona Network for PKU and Allied Disorders (ANPAD) in partnership with the Phoenix Children’s Hospital metabolic team, brings together families navigating life with protein-restricted diets for a weekend of laughter, learning, and lasting memories.
🌲 New Year, New Location: Welcome to Prescott Pines!
For 2025, Camp Knot a Phe moved to a brand-new site: Prescott Pines Camp, a beautiful 40-acre retreat tucked away in the cool mountains of Prescott. The facilities featured remodeled dorm-style cabins, each with bathrooms and cozy bunk beds—creating a welcoming environment for all attendees.
Campers arrived on Friday, June 13, and the weekend was filled with high-energy activities, heartfelt talks, and plenty of downtime to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. With only 140 spots available this year, the camp reached full capacity quickly, a testament to the community’s enthusiasm and dedication.
Who Attended?
Camp Knot a Phe is designed for metabolic patients on protein-restricted diets, including individuals with PKU and allied disorders. Adults, families, including siblings and guardians, join together to enjoy an inclusive experience where low-protein meals are thoughtfully prepared and medical formula support is available. PKU patients on Palynziq treatment are also welcome.
🎯 Fun for All Ages
This wasn’t your average camp—it was packed with exciting activities for every age group:
- Older campers (ages 6+) took part in archery, high ropes, rock climbing, zip lining, axe throwing, hiking, gaga ball, horseback ridding, waterslide, games ,and dance party.
- Younger children (under 5) had their own age-friendly adventures with arts & crafts, games, movie time, and dancing.
- Families enjoyed shared moments like campfires with s’mores, snowball fights (yes, in June!), group meals, and engaging evening events.
🍎 Nutrition & Meals
One of the most valued parts of Camp Knot a Phe is the low-protein menu, expertly prepared by a Chef Kent and guided by dietitians Melanie and Alyssa. All meals—whether low-protein or regular—were shared together, fostering unity around the table. Families with younger children participated in pre-meal planning sessions to support individualized care and learning.
Read more about Chef Kent - HERE
🧠 Education & Empowerment
Throughout the weekend, optional workshops and discovery groups offered learning and inspiration. Topics included:
- “Let’s Talk About Genes”
- “Your Voice Matters” with PTC Therapeutics
- “Healthy Transitions to Adulthood”
- “Ask Us Anything” Q&A with providers
- Updates on Palynziq and treatment options from patient speakers and BioMarin
These sessions gave families access to medical professionals, researchers, and advocates who understand the complexities of managing metabolic disorders.
📸 Capturing the Moments
From snow cones to high ropes, every smile was captured in real time. You can explore the photo gallery from the weekend on ANPAD's SmugMug page.
💛 Why It Matters
Camp Knot a Phe is more than a weekend in the woods. It’s a celebration of resilience, community, and shared experience. For families often navigating a rare condition in isolation, this camp offers a place to belong. It's where kids meet others “just like them,” parents find connection and support, and lifelong memories are made under the Arizona stars.
🙌 A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Sponsors & Volunteers
Camp Knot a Phe wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our sponsors and the incredible dedication of our volunteers. From setting up cabins to guiding activities and preparing meals, our volunteers made every moment of the weekend meaningful.
We are deeply grateful to our 2025 sponsors, whose contributions help keep camp affordable, inclusive, and full of resources for families managing PKU and allied metabolic disorders. A special thank you to:
🌟 Sponsors of Camp Knot a Phe 2025:
BioMarin • The Lindsey Family Trust • PTC Therapeutics • Leykam Family • ANPAD • Nexus • Nutricia • Zoia Pharma • Pentec • Vitaflo • Cycle Pharma • Cambrooke • PKU Perspectives • Ajinomoto Cambrooke • Passport Coffee & Tea • Promin • Mrs. Klein’s Pickles • eTon Pharmaceuticals
Your support fuels not just the campfire, but the community spirit that makes Camp Knot a Phe such a powerful and uplifting weekend.
Stay tuned for updates on Camp Knot a Phe 2026, and mark your calendars early—spots go fast! Questions or interested in helping next year? Reach out to the team at info@anpadnews.org.
Until then, we’ll see you in the pines. 🌲✨