Registration Open for the 2026 Cadet Encampment
Registration is now open for the 2026 National Capital Wing Cadet Encampment, which will be held July 26 to Aug. 2 at Camp Fretterd Military Reservation in Reisterstown, Maryland.
Encampment is one of the cornerstone experiences of the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program. This week-long leadership training activity provides cadets with an immersive environment focused on leadership development, teamwork, discipline, and personal growth. Cadets will participate in leadership instruction, drill and ceremonies, physical training, aerospace education, and team-building activities while working alongside experienced cadet cadre and adult staff.
Completion of encampment is a major milestone in the cadet program and is required before earning the Gen. Billy Mitchell Award.
Cadets interested in attending are encouraged to register early, as space is limited.
Activity Details
Location:
Camp Fretterd Military Reservation
Reisterstown, Maryland
Dates: July 26 to Aug. 2, 2026
Capacity:
- 180 First-time Students
- 40 Cadet Cadre
- 25 Senior Member Staff (adult volunteers)
Tuition:
- First-time Students: $325
- Cadet Cadre: $200
- Senior Member Staff: No fee
Registration Zone
https://www.capnhq.gov/CAP.Experiences.Web/Events/EditEvents?EventID=11205
Applications must be submitted through the Registration Zone. Space is limited, and applications will be processed in the order received. A waitlist may be established if capacity is reached.
Supplemental Information Form
After submitting a Registration Zone application, participants should complete the Encampment Supplemental Information Form as soon as possible.
Supplemental Form: https://forms.gle/AkBFkEZEZhVCiRyc8
Applications may not be reviewed for acceptance until the supplemental form and required documents have been submitted.
Financial Assistance (CEAP)
Cadets who require financial assistance are encouraged to apply for the Cadet Encampment Assistance Program (CEAP). CEAP may cover up to 100% of encampment tuition for eligible cadets.
CEAP applications typically close on April 15, so interested cadets are encouraged to apply early.
Eligibility
First-time students must:
- Be a current Civil Air Patrol cadet in good standing;
- Have completed Achievement 1 (Curry Award) before arrival;
- Meet CAP uniform and grooming standards; and
- Be physically able to participate in training activities.
Cadets who have previously completed encampment may apply to serve as cadet cadre.
Additional reporting instructions, packing lists, and administrative information will be distributed closer to the activity.
Questions
If you have questions, please get in touch with the encampment staff at encampment@natcapwg.cap.gov.
