Camp Knot a Phe 2026: Survive the Jungle – A Weekend of Adventure, Learning & Community
For one unforgettable weekend, families from across Arizona came together at Prescott Pines for Camp Knot a Phe 2026: Survive the Jungle. What began more than 15 years ago as a small gathering has grown into one of the highlights of the year for individuals and families living with PKU and allied metabolic disorders.
This year's jungle adventure was packed with exciting activities, meaningful education, new friendships, and countless moments that reminded us that no family has to navigate this journey alone.
A Warm Welcome to the Jungle
The weekend kicked off Friday afternoon as volunteers arrived early for training before welcoming campers to Prescott Pines. Registration, our annual Vendor Fair, snow cones, family activities, and movies created a fun atmosphere while families settled into camp.
The Vendor Fair gave campers the opportunity to meet with our industry partners, ask questions, discover new products and services, and connect with organizations dedicated to improving the lives of those living with PKU and allied disorders.
Following dinner and camp orientation, everyone gathered for field games, campfires, and s'mores before the evening split into activities for every age group—including a Silent Disco for teens, poker for adults, and open recreation in the gym.
Adventure Around Every Corner
Saturday transformed camp into a true jungle adventure. Campers challenged themselves on:
- High ropes course
- Mini zip line
- Zip line
- Climbing wall
- Leap of Faith
- Archery
- Axe throwing
- Horseback riding
- Water activities
- Swimming pool
- Arts and crafts
- Games throughout the camp
There was truly something for every age and comfort level, allowing campers to build confidence, try something new, and encourage one another along the way.
Throughout the weekend, self-guided activities such as Gaga Ball, volleyball, basketball, human foosball, splash pad fun, crafts, reading areas, and the game room ensured there was never a shortage of things to do.
Learning That Empowers Families
One of the unique aspects of Camp Knot a Phe is balancing fun with practical education. This year's educational sessions included presentations and workshops covering:
- Low Protein Escape Room
- Managing Metabolic Well-Being
- Palynziq and Adolescents
- PTC Therapeutics – Sephience
- Care Mapping for Parents & Caregivers
- Care Mapping for Patients
- Phe Balance: The PKU Treatment Game
- Genetics Trivia
- What Are Allied Disorders?
- Emerging Treatments for Metabolic Disorders
These sessions gave families the opportunity to hear directly from experts, ask questions, learn about new research, and share experiences with others facing similar challenges.
Building Friendships That Last Beyond Camp
One of the greatest gifts of Camp Knot a Phe is the friendships that are formed.
Children quickly find others who understand what it means to live with PKU or another metabolic disorder. Parents connect with families who truly understand the daily challenges of meal planning, medical formulas, clinic visits, and advocating for their children.
For many first-time campers, it is the first time they realize they are not alone. Those connections often continue long after camp ends through friendships, support networks, and future ANPAD events
Camp Traditions Continue
Saturday evening brought even more excitement as campers voted on next year's camp theme before gathering for our energetic Metabolic BINGO Glow Party and the always entertaining Lip Sync Battle, where campers, siblings, parents, and volunteers showed off their creativity and sense of humor.
Sunday morning featured our annual group photo, educational sessions, outdoor adventures, and one last opportunity to enjoy camp before gathering for lunch and saying goodbye until next year.
Thank You to Our Volunteers
Camp Knot a Phe would not be possible without an incredible team of volunteers.
From registration and decorating to activity leaders, kitchen support, medical staff, photographers, workshop presenters, and cleanup crews, hundreds of volunteer hours made this weekend possible.
Your generosity, energy, and dedication created a safe, welcoming environment where every camper could thrive.
Thank you Chef Kent and ASU Culinary Volunteers
A heartfelt thank you to Chef Kent and his incredible culinary team from ASU for providing such an outstanding selection of delicious low-protein meals throughout Camp Knot a Phe. Your creativity, dedication, and attention to detail made every meal something our families could truly enjoy and look forward to. Preparing safe, nutritious, and flavorful low-protein food for so many campers is no small task, and your team exceeded expectations every step of the way. Thank you for the countless hours of planning, preparation, and service that helped make this camp experience so memorable. Your generosity and commitment to the PKU community are deeply appreciated, and we are grateful for the care and compassion you showed to every camper and family. Download the recipes below.
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Vendors
We are deeply grateful to the sponsors, exhibitors, and industry partners whose support helps make Camp Knot a Phe possible year after year.
Your commitment to the PKU and metabolic disorder community allows families to experience education, recreation, connection, and hope in an environment built specifically for them.
Until Next Year…
As camp came to a close, hugs were exchanged, new friendships had formed, and memories were made that will last a lifetime.
Whether it was conquering the high ropes course, learning about emerging treatments, laughing during the Lip Sync Battle, or simply talking with another family who understands the journey, every moment reminded us why Camp Knot a Phe continues to be such an important tradition.
Thank you to every camper, family, volunteer, sponsor, presenter, and vendor who made Camp Knot a Phe 2026: Survive the Jungle such an incredible success.
We can't wait to see everyone again next year for another unforgettable adventure!