Disney surprises Long Beach campers with 'Camp Rock 3' tour bus stop
The Disney celebration highlighted how camping can help kids reach their dreams.
More than a hundred children got an unforgettable surprise Thursday as Disney's "Camp Rock 3" rolled onto their campgrounds.
A coast-to-coast bus tour that began in July made its final stop at Camp Fire Long Beach, just hours before the film's debut on Disney Channel.
The “All Roads Lead to Camp” tour was part of a broader commitment by Disney to highlight the positive impact camping has on youth development and well-being.
A school bus, tagged with musical graffiti and “Camp Rock 3” theming, stopped at eight summer camps across the country, before pulling into Long Beach.
“It’s all about belonging and friendships,” American Camp Foundation board chair Lizabeth Fogel said. “Taking risks and doing new things, and having those experiences to gather with your friends.”
On this final day of camp, campers got the chance to immerse themselves in the Disney Channel sequel, enjoying sing-alongs, making bandanas and taking Polaroid photos aboard the bus.
Like many of the themes explored in the new movie, Camp Coyote campers we spoke with said they were able to build confidence, connection and a sense of belonging this summer.
Jamie Reyes-Montenegro, Camp Fire’s executive director, said camp provides some real magic for children, especially those living in the urban communities of LA.
“It’s a really unique experience for kids, who most have never had the opportunity to really experience nature,” Reyes-Montenegro said.
Earlier this year, Disney teamed up with American Camp Association to give kids the joy of the great outdoors through camp scholarships.
Disney said the initiative reflected its commitment to supporting future generations by providing access and opportunity to kids and families to reach for their dreams.
Since 1925, Camp Fire Long Beach has connected children and families to nature, moving into its five-acre property in 1969.
The camp offers year-around programs, outdoor education, and hands-on experiences during winter, spring and summer breaks.
For more information, visit CampFireLB.org.
