Camp Texas is an extended orientation camp designed exclusively for new Longhorns! For three days, you will engage in fun, summer camp–style activities to help you learn UT traditions, break out of your shell, and get prepared for your first day on the Forty Acres. Camp Texas is where you will find your community, create meaningful friendships, and make memories that last a lifetime.
Registration opens March 31!
Registration Information
Camp Texas 2025 Dates
Session 1: August 3–5
Session 2: August 5–7
Session 3: August 7–9
Registration Fee
The cost for Camp Texas is $250, which includes three days and two nights of lodging at Camp Buckner, seven meals, transportation to and from campus, a Texas Exes Student Annual Membership, and a burnt-orange Camp Texas T-shirt.
On-campus parking will be available for an additional fee.
Registration fee will increase to $275 on June 2.
Your Texas Exes Student Membership will give you access to yearlong benefits, such as student programming, networking, free T-shirts, discounts, and more!
Cancelling Your Reservation
If you need to cancel your Camp Texas registration for any reason, you must request your refund by Monday, June 2, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. There will be no refunds after this date. Refunds prior to the deadline will receive the registration amount, minus a $65 cancellation fee. You will submit your request using this form (LINK TK). Select Camp Texas from the drop-down list. Please include the camper’s name, UT EID, and session.
Fee Waivers
There are a limited number of spots reserved per session for Camp Texas fee-waiver recipients. To be considered for a Camp Texas fee waiver, you must complete an application.
Apply for a Camp Texas fee waiver
Applications are due by Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.
Filling out a Camp Texas fee waiver application does not guarantee you a spot. If you wish to secure a Camp Texas spot, you must register and make an out-of-pocket payment for your session of choice. If you are selected to receive a fee waiver, your registration fee will be reimbursed.
If you are not selected as a fee waiver recipient, and you wish to cancel your Camp Texas registration, you must do so according to the cancellation policy.
For Chapter/Network Scholarship Recipients:
The Texas Exes has more than 100 chapters and networks worldwide, many of which provide a limited number of scholarships to attend Camp Texas. Check with your local Chapter to inquire about scholarship opportunities.If a Chapter selects you as a recipient, the Texas Exes Scholarships department will contact you with registration information.
NOTE: If you reserve a spot as a Camp Texas fee waiver/chapter/network scholarship recipient and you do not attend your session, or if you fail to cancel by Monday, June 2, 2025, at 11:59 p.m., you will be responsible for paying back the waiver or scholarship amount to the Texas Exes’ Camp Texas program or your awarding chapter/network.
Get Ready for Camp Texas
What to Expect
Small Groups: Camp Texas Campers are divided into groups based on major and will be led by a current Longhorn! These groups provide opportunities to make friends and build a support network with your fellow small group members and Camp Texas Counselors. There are plenty of opportunities to meet other students outside your small group through large group activities, meals, and free time.
Large Group Activities: Start connecting with others at Camp Texas! Find out who is in your major or residence hall through fun group activities.
Camp-Wide Games: Get into a little friendly competition with group tournaments.
Leisure Time: Enjoy some time relaxing with your fellow Longhorns around camp! Check out the pool, basketball courts, sand volleyball, board games, and the famous blob on the pond.
Professor Preview: Meet UT faculty members in a casual setting, and ask them anything.
Act-in-a-Sac: Learn the unique history and traditions of UT by putting on your own skit with fellow Campers.
Texas Tie-Dye Two Step: Here's your chance to get fired up about being the newest Longhorns!
Check Your Email
It is important to remember that official communication regarding Camp Texas will be sent to the email address you provided at registration. This includes confirmation and reminders related to camp. One week prior to your scheduled session, you will receive a reminder email with final important information to help you prepare for camp, including your small group assignment! Check this email regularly to make sure you do not miss important information
Parking
UT Parking and Transportation is offering campers paid parking in the San Jacinto Parking Garage for a fee of $36. If you choose to purchase a parking permit, you must do so online before 10:00 p.m. the night before your session begins. To purchase please complete the following steps:
- Visit https://utparking.clickandpark.com/venues
- Select "University of Texas (Camp Texas)" as your venue at the bottom of the list. If you do not see "University of Texas (Camp Texas)" as an option, please check back later.
- Scroll down to your camp check-in date, and click the "Find Parking" button.
- Follow the instructions to complete your purchase.
Please note: You must print the permit before arriving at the Alumni Center. Make sure you scan it when entering and exiting the San Jacinto Garage—even if the gate arms are in the up position.
Check-in & Check out
All campers will check in at the Alumni Center, located at 2110 San Jacinto on the UT campus, between 10–10:30 a.m. on the first day of their Camp Texas session.
All students will be back in Austin at the Alumni Center by 2:30 p.m. on the last day of their session. All campers must exit the garage or be picked up by 3 p.m.
Things to Do in Austin
We’re so excited your student is joining us at Camp Texas and that you are sticking around to experience what Austin has to offer. We’ve put together a list of our favorite things to do, places to eat, things to see, and other resources you may need while you are here.
Now have some fun, and get to know your student’s new home!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend?
Camp Texas is open to any incoming freshman, transfer student, or PACE student.
Why should I attend Camp Texas if I’m already attending Orientation?
Camp Texas is the only summer camp that teaches you everything you need to know about life on the Forty Acres before you even step foot on campus. The numbers don’t lie: 83% of campers felt that Camp Texas was a great addition to their regular orientation experience, and 77% of campers left Camp Texas feeling more aware of the resources available to them and more confident they would succeed at UT. Plus, our data shows that Camp Texas attendees have higher GPAs and a higher four-year graduation rate than students who didn’t attend.
Do you accommodate students with disabilities?
Camp Texas is available to all incoming students. Please call (512) 840-5632 to talk with our staff about accommodations or any concerns you may have.
If you still have unanswered questions, please email camptexas@texasexes.org.
Registration opens March 31!