The Painted Turtle is more than a summer camp-it is a life-changing environment for children with serious illnesses and the only multi-disease camp of its kind on the West Coast.  Since opening in 2004, the camp has set out to offer campers and their families a haven for self-discovery, change and growth.  The camp is also home to year-round programs including family weekends, camper reunions, sibling camps and medical research conferences.  Located in the foothills of the Angeles National forest northeast of Los Angeles, the camp resides on nearly 175 acres in a scenic valley complete with tranquil lake.  The Painted Turtle features a recreation and event center, cabin village, arts and crafts, ropes adventure course, organic farm, Shamu-shaped swiming pool and Well Shell medical clinic.