Arkansas Encampment Information

Operation Diamond Forge - Summer 2026

The Arkansas Wing Summer Encampment, Operation DIAMOND FORGE (ODF), is scheduled for June 17 to June 26 at Camp Robinson in North Little Rock, Arkansas. We will be touring the Little Rock Air Force Base and Camp Robinson during the encampment week, and we have some exciting tours and activities at both military installations. 

Location: Camp Robinson (North Little Rock), Arkansas

Dates: June 17th - June 26th - 2026

• July 17: All staff will report on Wednesday, 17 June, starting at noon, for Required Staff Training (RST) on the 17th and 18th

• June 19: Students will report on Friday, 19 June, for Reception at Arkansas Wing Headquarters

• June 26: Encampment Graduation will be on Friday, 26 June 2026 - Details of when and where TBD

Student Registration

Encampment Overview

Encampment planning depends heavily on anticipated attendance, so we ask that cadets discuss availability with their parents and submit the registration form as soon as possible.

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What Happens at Encampment?

Encampment is designed to challenge you and help you grow.

You will be pushed—physically, mentally, and personally—in a supportive team environment that helps you discover what you’re capable of. Are you self-disciplined? Can you lead others? Can you work effectively as part of a team? These are questions encampment staff will help you explore through hands-on training, activities, and real-world experiences.

Encampment is not a classroom experience—it’s immersive. Past encampments have included tours and unique opportunities such as C-130 and Black Hawk aircraft flights, giving cadets unforgettable exposure to military aviation and operational environments.

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Why Encampment Matters (for Cadets and Parents)

Encampment is one of the most impactful experiences in the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program. Cadets gain confidence, maturity, independence, and leadership skills that carry forward into school, future CAP activities, and life beyond the program.

Just as importantly, encampment is one of the most affordable structured summer leadership experiences available today.

The total student cost for the week is $315, which covers training, lodging, meals, and activities. In a time when many summer programs cost thousands of dollars, encampment offers exceptional value while delivering meaningful personal development.

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Our Goals at Encampment

Our goal is to inspire cadets to:

• Develop leadership skills

• Learn about aviation, space, and technology

• Commit to regular physical fitness

• Live the CAP Core Values

As cadets of the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary, cadets train in leadership and character development, physical fitness, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), while also being exposed to potential career paths in aviation, space, technology, and military service.

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Would you like to staff this encampment - Cadet or Senior?   

• Cadet staff roles are designed for experienced cadets who are ready to accept greater responsibility, develop advanced leadership skills, and serve as role models within a structured, professional environment.

• Serving on cadet staff provides experienced cadets the opportunity to apply leadership skills in a real-world training environment while mentoring and guiding younger cadets through the encampment experience.

• Encampment depends on dedicated senior member volunteers who provide leadership, supervision, and mentorship that make a safe, professional, and meaningful cadet experience possible.

• Senior members who volunteer at encampment play a critical role in shaping cadet leadership development while serving in flexible roles that match their experience and availability.

Cadets with encampment credit can apply for staff positions at the link below.   Staff cost is $205.

Seniors available to help staff, please register at the link below.  Seniors' cost is $0.

Cadet Staff Application   

**Encampment Cadet Staff Positions Descriptions - Click HERE

Senior Members