Siblings

Though Special Camps is not a family camp, some of our campers do attend with a sibling or parent who serves as a volunteer camp counselor, nurse or staff member.

Special Camps (est. in 1995), provides opportunities
for kids and adults with intellectual disabilities to experience new activities, form friendships, increase independence and build self esteem in week long, overnight camps. Hosted by a 100% volunteer team, Special Camps offers a camp for kids and a separate camp for adults in June each summer. Dates are Sunday - Friday.
Activities include archery, sports, crafts, games, music, fishing, canoes and paddle boats, woodworking, swimming in a lake and a heated pool, talent shows and a low / high ropes course with balancing challenges as well as a climbing wall and a giant zip line. Parties every evening include campfire songs with s'mores, dances, hayrides, bingo and more.

Financial Assistance Available

Though we charge $400 for the week, our actual costs are closer to $700. We are subsidized by generous donations from the Knights of Columbus, our volunteers, and others. Scholarships are available to those in need.

We will rent Camp Red Leaf this year. They will provide most of the meals for camp. As such, they are able to accommodate most dietary needs for those with allergies or more limited dietary preferences.

Special Camps (est. in 1995), provides opportunities
for kids and adults with intellectual disabilities to experience new activities, form friendships, increase independence and build self esteem in week long, overnight camps.

Camp encourages the development of social skills through interactive activities alongside a teen volunteer in a structured setting, under adult supervision. Evening parties include hayrides, bingo, campfire songs with s'mores, dancing and more.
Special Camps is run by volunteers. Most of the adult leaders have been with us for more than 20 years. Volunteers must pass both personal and police background checks. All volunteers receive training. At camp, volunteers develop leadership skills while gaining insight into the lives of special needs individuals. Volunteers have unique opportunity to learn from the campers, that they come to play and live along side. These interactions often lead to both personal and professional growth.
Special Camps provides weeklong respite to families and caregivers. Raising a child with special needs can be a very rewarding experience, but may also provide life-long care and financial challenges. That's why Special Camps provides scholarships for any camper in need. Campers who are able, pay $400 for their one week stay at camp.