All health topics

A guide to your options

Weight Loss Camps

Explore weight loss camps, fitness retreats, and programs you can attend from home. Find a format that fits your life, compare what it costs, and know what to ask before you commit.

Find your starting point

Compare programs and costs

Start with the kind of support you want and the time you have available.

Understand the options

A camp, a retreat, or ongoing support?

The name is only a starting point. Compare where you stay, how the day is structured, and who provides support.

For parents & caregivers

Exploring options for a child or teen?

Start with your child’s needs, interests, and comfort. Discuss program suitability with their pediatrician, and ask how the family will be involved.

Before you book

Four things to ask every program

Use the same questions with each provider so the answers are easier to compare.

What does the total price include?
Ask about accommodation, meals, assessments, sessions, travel, extra fees, and the cancellation policy.
Who will work with me?
Ask who leads exercise, nutrition, and clinical care, what their qualifications are, and how the program adapts to individual needs.
What would a typical week look like?
Request a sample schedule, group sizes, activity choices, and the balance of individual and group support.
What happens when the program ends?
Ask about follow-up appointments, ongoing support, additional costs, and how progress is assessed over time.

For more on evaluating a program, see NIDDK’s guide to choosing a weight-loss program.

Keep exploring

More from this topic

Perspectives on camp life, food, motivation, and everyday habits.