Special Needs Summer Camps
General/Multiple Disability
Camp Burnt Gin – Aerie Experiences – Camp Spearhead – Super Summer Camp – Becoming Super Stars – Glenforest Schools Summer Camps – Camps Sunshine - Columbia – Camp Hope – Pattison's Academy Summer Camp – PAALS Doggone Days Camp – Victory Junction – Courage Camps – Camp Hand to Hands – MDA Summer Camps – Teen Buddies – Sportsational – Camp Adam Fisher – Camp Can Do – Irmo/Chapin Recreation Commission – Social Language Academy – SOAR Camps – Bridges at the Therapy Place – Camp Sun Fun – All Star Gymnastics
Asthma
Camp Breathe Easy
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Camp Puzzle Palooza – Camp Good Times – Camp T.A.L.K – ESP Camp – Camp Caglewood –
AASC Summer Camp – Camp Lakey Gap – SC Autism Society Summer Events
Vision and/or Hearing Impairment
Rocky Bottom Retreat Summer Camp – Camp Leo – Camp Lion's Den – Camp Sertoma – SCSDB William W. All Adventure Camp – Bay Cliff Summer Therapy Camp – SCSDB Outreach Services – Camp Wonderhands – Summer Teen Program
Brain Injury
Camp To Be Independent
Cancer and Blood Disorders
Camp Courage – Camp Kemo– Camp Debbie Lou – Camp Happy Days
AAC/Communication
Camp Chatterbox – Camp Communicate
Mental Health
Camp ARC
Summer Camps in SC
General/Multiple Disability
Camp Burnt Gin
Date: Early June to late July, 2012
Where: Wedgefield, SC (Sumter County)
Cost: No charge
Participants: Four six day sessions for children 7 – 15 years old, two six day sessions for teenagers 16 – 20 years old, and a four day session for young adults, 21 – 25 years old.
Description: Camp Burnt Gin is a residential summer camping program. Activities include arts and crafts, nature study, drama, dance, sports, games, swimming and boating. All activities are adapted so that every child can participate. CBG offers children who have special needs the chance to meet new friends, learn recreational skills, improve their self esteem and independence.
Camp Burnt Gin is accredited by the American Camp Association.
Contact:For more information contact the Camp Director, Marie Aimone (803-898-0455 or aimonemi@dhec.sc.gov) or go to the camp's website: www.scdhec.gov/campburntgin
Aerie Experiences
Date: June - July, 2012
Where: Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee
Cost: Contact for details
Participants: Children, ages 8-17, diagnosed with Neurobiological Disorders, Aspergers, Learning Disabilities, Nonverbal Learning Disabilities, High Functioning Autism, Pervasive Developmental Delays and/or ADHD.
Description: The summer camp is designed to offer wilderness and outdoor camp experiences to the “nontraditional” camper. Campers will spend eight days and seven nights exploring the south east’s scenic wilderness and their own infinite potentials.
Special Offerings:
- Equine Expedition - Campers will experience life on a working horse ranch, explore the Cumberland Plateau, and take a three day trail ride through Big South Fork National Park. Limit 12 campers, ages 13+
- Llama Trek Expedition I - A truly unique experience! Campers will hike, camp and explore Pisgah National Forest with a new best friend by their side - their own personal llama. Their llama will carry each camper's supplies in exchange for the camper's constant companionship and daily care. Limit 7 campers, ages 8-13
- Coastal Expedition - Campers will kayak, camp and discover the wonders of Sapilo Island and the Satilla River, exploring the forested uplands, the vast salt marshes and the complex beach and dunes systems. Limit 12 campers, ages 13+
- Llama Trek Expedition II - A truly unique experience! Campers will hike, camp and explore Pisgah National Forest with a new best friend by their side - their own personal llama. Their llama will carry each camper's supplies in exchange for the camper's constant companionship and daily care. Limit 7 campers, ages 8-13
Contact:
Matthew Weneta
mdweneta@aerieexperiences.com
404-285-0467
Website: www.aerieexperiences.com
Camp Spearhead
Date: Various 5 day camps running from May - July, 2012
Where: Pleasant Ridge Camp & Retreat Center, Marietta, SC
Cost: $310/week – within District residents; $345/week – Greenville County residents; $385/week – residents of other counties; $650/week – residents of other States
Participants: Ages 8 years old & up; Children & adults with disabilities; Camp Spearhead reserves the right to determine eligibility of potential campers. Eligibility is determined through application forms and, if necessary, through interviews with potential camper and parent, guardian, or caregiver.
Description: Camp Spearhead, founded in 1968 and located in the foothills of upstate SC, is a residential special needs camp for children (8 and up) and adults with special needs. Each summer Spearhead serves nearly 600 campers over the course of the eight week season. During the school-year Spearhead offers continued social and recreational opportunities through the popular Weekend Program.
Website: http://greenvillerec.com/activities-and-programs/camp-spearhead-temp
Super Summer Camp
Date: Jun. 4–8, 11–15, 18–22, Jul. 9–13, 16-10
Where: Irmo, with trips to Greenville, Florence, Charleston, and Charlotte
Cost: $125 (refundable) / $143 (non-refundable) per week
Participants: Children with special needs between the ages of 8 and 21 who are moderately independent in all activites of daily living.
Description: The camp consists of indoor and outdoor activities such as crafts and games. There will be two field trips per week and a visit to a local park every Friday for a picnic. Camp includes two field trips per week and a picnic at a local park every Friday. Bring a bag lunch each day. Morning and afternoon snacks are provided. Staff to child ratio is 1:5. If closer supervision is needed for your child, a personal assistant will need to be provided for attendance.
Contact: Julie Edmond, Therapeutic Recreation Coodinator
Becoming Super Stars
Date: Session 1 - June 6 to 27, 2012; Session 2 - July 11 to August 1, 2012
Where: Columbia, SC
Cost: $55 per session if under 5 or $65 if over 5
Participants: Children Pre-K to 17
Description: Becoming Super Stars is two sessions of five week, 45 minute music therapy groups that will focus on positive group music making, social skills, musicianship, songwriting, and self expression. Participants will learn not only about music, but themselves and their peers. Social opportunities will include group drumming, songwriting, and a variety of musical activites designed to enable learning of and practice of social skills. Topics will include, but are not limited to: personal identity, bullying, peer pressure, parents and siblings, and coping skills.
Contact: Key Changes Music Therapy website
Glenforest School Summer Camps
The mission of Glenforest School is to provide educational opportunities for students in Grades 1 through 12 who are experiencing difficulties in other educational settings due to learning differences. They have several camps throughout the summer. You can read about them below or download the Glenforest School Summer Camps flyer (PDF).
Contact: Glenforest School website
Angry Birds LIVE!!
Date: June 11 – 15th / 1pm – 4pm / (before & after‐care available)
Where: Glenforest School, 1041 Harbor Drive, West Columbia, SC
Cost: $300
Participants: Students in grades 6 - 12
Description: Angry Birds LIVE!! The High-Flying Physics Camp offers students the unique experience of seeing the popular Angry Birds game come to life, while
at the same time gaining an understanding of the fascinating math and physics
phenomena that lie behind the game. Students will collectively design build an
apparatus to launch their very own Angry Birds at those pesky pigs! Through this
thrilling new hands-on summer experience students will exercise and develop math and science skills while having tons of fun! This fun and engaging, education-
driven summer program is ideal for students who learn “traditionally" as well as for
students who learn differently or with unique learning needs.
Download Angry Birds LIVE!! camp flyer (PDF)
Camp Skillz
Date: June
11 –
28th
/
9am –
1pm
/
(Mon - Thurs)
Where: Glenforest
School,
1041
Harbor
Drive,
West
Columbia,
SC
Cost: $300
Participants: Students
ages
5 –
16
(see below)
Description: Camp Skillz is an inclusive day camp for students ages 5 to 16 seeking social skills and social interaction skills development. Skillz
is
ideal
for
kids
with
Autism
Spectrum
disorders
or
other
unique
learning
needs,
including
Asperger’s,
ADHD/ADD,
dyslexia
and
other
LDs. “Skillz”
provides
a
variety
of
fun,
practical
ways
for
students
who
are
challenged
by
social
skills
to
enjoy
experiencing
independence,
group
interaction
and
increased
self‐esteem.
It
provides
direct
social
skills
instruction
for
real-life
social
situations
within
a
safe
and
secure
environment.
The
program
takes
place
on
Mondays
and
Wednesdays
all
summer
long
and
features
a
variety
of
off‐site
field
trips
and
diverse
assortment
of
activities
focused
on
improving
social
skills.
Download Camp Skillz flyer (PDF)
Reading Discovery Camp
Date: June 18 – 22nd / 1pm – 4pm / (before & after-care available)
Where: Glenforest School - 1041 Harbor Drive, West Columbia, SC
Cost: $250
Participants: Students in grades 2-6
Description: Reading Discovery Camp allows students to become better readers through fun, exciting and interactive exploration between the pages of their favorite books. Students will practice reading skills and experience reading through personalized book and story choices, special guests, puppets, and games. In addition, campers will enjoy the unique chance of animating a story of their very own using iPads! This fun and engaging, education-driven summer program is ideal for students who learn “traditionally” as well as for students who learn differently or with unique learning needs.
Download Reading Discovery Camp flyer (PDF)
Math, Laughs & Video Games
Date: June 25 – 29 / 1pm – 4pm / (before & after‐care available)
Where: Glenforest School - 1041 Harbor Drive, West Columbia, SC
Cost: $250
Participants: Students in grades 6-12
Description: Math, Laughs & Video Games Camp explores the world of math through
an electrifying assortment of popular video games and consoles. Did you know there is a
world of math knowledge in every video game?? Students will join in exploring a new and
different videogame console each day of camp! At Math, Laughs & Video Games Camp
new math topics will be introduced throughout the program in addition to supporting
math fundamentals; at the same time, campers will be having so much fun they may not
even realize how much they are actually learning! This fun and engaging, education-driven
summer program is ideal for students who learn "traditionally" as well as for students who
learn differently or with unique learning needs.
Download Math, Laughs & Video Games camp flyer (PDF)
Camp Sunshine
Date: June 11 - 29 and July 2 - 20, 2012
Where: Denny Terrace Community Center,
6429 Bishop Ave., Columbia, SC
Cost: $250 per session or $450 for both
Participants: Children and young adults with disabilities
Description: Camp Sunshine is available in two, three–week sessions for from 8:45 AM to 2:45 PM every weekday during the summer. Activities provided by the staff of the Richland County Recreation Commission’s Adaptive Recreation Department include arts and crafts, drama, basketball, soccer, and usually a weekly field trip.
Contact: Andrew Scott, Adaptive Recreation Manager - (803)754-6720 Ext. 203 or 214
Camp Hope
Date: Four sessions (three one-week camps, one two-week camp) throughout the summer, each accepting a different age group. The one-week camps begin June 17, June 24, and July 1, and the two-week camp is from July 15-27. See Clemson Outdoor Lab Dates and Rates page for more details.
Where: Clemson Outdoor Lab, 415 Charlie White Trail, Pendleton, SC
Cost: Minumum $385 for SC residentes, $530 for residents of other states. See Clemson Outdoor Lab Dates and Rates page for more details.
Participants: Individuals age 8 and over with developmental disabilities
Description: Jaycee Camp Hope is a statewide residential camp for mentally challenged citizens. Its purposes are to give the camper helpful experiences in an outdoor environment, develop the ability to work and play as a group, and provide new experiences unique to a camp setting. The SC Junior Chamber of Commerce has provided financial support for every camper attending Jaycee Camp Hope since 1969. Individuals participating in Camp Hope are ages 8 and older. Campers are grouped according to age, level of functioning, and previous camp and social experience.
Contact: cuolcamps-L@clemson.edu
Pattison’s Academy Summer Day Camp
Date:4 weeks from June 18 - July 13, 2012; Mon - Fri, 9:00am - 3:00pm
Where: 2014 Bees Ferry Road, North Charleston, SC (Grace on the Ashley Baptist Church)
Cost: $150 Weekly. Costs include snacks, field trips, crafts and therapy services (as long as therapists are able to bill Medicaid or private insurance.) Pattison’s has never turned a child away because of a family’s inability to pay. Additional funding resources may be available.
Participants: Children ages 1-15 years old who have multiple and\or severe disabilities (Physical impairments, visual, hearing, cognitive impairments). Note: They cannot accept children whose primary diagnosis is autism or behavioral disorders because they will not have the staffing to provided the constant one on one supervision that many of these children deserve.
Description: Pattison's Academy Summer Camp provides therapy, enrichment and FUN for the children and a nice break for the care givers of these children. In 2009, 44 children from around the Lowcountry participated in very active days of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and field trips for 5 weeks.
Contact: Patterson's Academy Summer Day Camp website or 843-849-6707
PAALS Doggone Days of Summer Camp
Date: July 9-13, 2012
Time: 8:30am - 3:30pm
Where: Edventure Children's Museum, Columbia, SC
Cost: $275 ($225 before May 1)
Participants: Ages 11-14 years old (11- 19 for youth with disabilities)
Description: Learn the basics of service dog training, how to help people in the community, and work side by side with other youth and individuals with disabilites, all while pairing up to train a service dog candidate.
Contact: Jen Rogers at (803)788-7063
Website: PAALS website
Camp Hand to Hands
Date: August 6-10, 2012
Time: Contact for exact times
Where: MUSC, Charleston, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
Description: Camp Hand to Hands is an intensive rehabilitation program started at the Medical University of South Carolina in 2001 and has provided therapy for over 60 children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. The MUSC constraint approach uses a resting hand splint and puppet as the soft restraint on the stronger, unaffected upper extremity.
Website: Camp Hand to Hands website
MDA Summer Camps
Date, Time, Location: Contact the local MDA for details, as it varies by state
Cost: Free
Participants: Children with muscular dystrophy.
Description: Since 1955, MDA has built bridges and knocked down barriers for youngsters with muscular dystrophy and related diseases by providing a week-long summer camp. MDA supports nearly 80 summer camps across the country. MDA camps is offer a wide range of activities specially designed for young people who have limited mobility or use wheelchairs. Although structured, camp programs are conducted in a relaxed atmosphere that gives campers an unmatched opportunity to develop lifelong friendships, share interests and build self-confidence.
Website: MDA Summer Camp website
Teen Buddies
Date: July 16 - 20, 2012
Time: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Where: R.L. Jones Center, 391 Egypt Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC
Cost: $140 resident/$154 non-resident
Participants: Middle and high school students with and without disabilities
Description: TEEN BUDDIES will be offered as a summer camp focusing on teens with differing abilities and handicapping conditions. Teens requiring one-on-one assistance will be required to provide his/her own helper to assist them this year (helper must pay his/her own way). We also welcome teens without disabilities to join us. Swimming, games, daily field trips, and friendships will encircle all teens involved. Teens need to bring a bag lunch, change of clothing, swimsuit, and towel daily.
Website: Mt. Pleasant Recreation Department Summer Camps 2012 Guide (PDF)
Sportsational
Date: Feb 8, 2012 (elementary);
Feb 15, 2012 (middle/high)
Time: 10:00am - 1:00pm
Where: James Island Recreation Comples, James Island, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Students of special needs classrooms
Description: Sportsational is for students of special needs classrooms to spend the day participating in different sport activities such as basketball, tennis, small games, gymnastics, and jump castles. City of Charleston Police and Fire fighters teach us about safety and we end the day with pizza and awards.
Website: City of Charleston Therapeutic Recreation Events webpage
Camp Adam Fisher
Date: June 3 - 9, 2012
Where: Camp Bob Cooper, Summerton, SC
Cost: $595 (+$100 late fee)
Participants: Children with diabetes ages 6-17
Description: Camp Adam Fisher is an annual summer born in 1968 out of a father's
wish for his daughter. They offer all the experiences, lessons benefits of summer camp to children with diabetes, while teaching them how to live longer and healthier lives. They do so in a safe, well-monitored
environment where professional attention can be afforded to each camper's individual needs.
NOTE: Application deadline of May 9, 2012
Website: Camp Adam Fisher webpage
Camp 'Can Do'
Date: June 29 - July 3, 2012
Where: MUSC, Charleston, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Children ages 6-17 who have been treated for serious burn injuries.
Description: Camp ‘Can’ Do provides a safe, supportive, fun outdoor environment and a variety of social, recreational, and educational activities for campers. Camp activities may include fishing, swimming, boating and canoeing, games, ropes courses, arts and crafts, entertainment, a dance party, field trips, firefighter relay games, and much more. Camp ‘Can’ Do provides opportunities for personal growth, increased self-esteem, and development of leadership skills.
Website: Camp 'Can Do' webpage
Irmo/Chapin Recreation Commission Activities
The Irmo/Chaping Recreation Commission has many events and throughout the summer for special needs individuals. Some are listed here. You can find the full list on the Irmo/Chapin Acitivity Calendar.
Outer Limits
Dates:
Fri., May 11, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Sat., Jun. 2, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Age: Adults
Price: $23 Refundable/$36 Non-Refundable
Location: Seven Oaks Park
Description: Outer Limits is a program that is designed to foster social skills, increase leisure opportunities and create friendships in a social setting for adults with disabilities. In May, we will be going to Shealy's BBQ which is known nationwide as South Carolina's premiere BarB Que Restaurant. In june, we are off to Rush's followed by a Blowfish baseball game against Martinsville.
The Sweet Life
Dates:
Fri., Apr. 27, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Fri., Jun. 8, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Fri., May 18, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Age: 16-Adult
Price: $12R/$1NR
Location: See description
Description: If you have a sweet tooth an enjoy desserts, come with us as we visit a variety of sweet shops in the Columbia area. The Sweet Life is a program designed for young adults with disabilities and to get together with their peers and enjoy a dessert. After the sweet shop stop, then we will take a leisurely stroll. The cost of the program includes transportation, cost of dessert and drink. In April, we will go to Marble Slab and then walk the dam. In May, we will try Brusters and stroll through Saluda Shoals Park. In June, we will sip a Rita's and walk around Sandhills outdoor mall.
Camp YOUniversity
Dates: Mon.-Thurs., Jun. 25, 10:00 a.m.-2:00p.m.
Age: Adults
Price: $65 Refundable/$78 Non-Refundable
Location: See description
Description: Camp YOUniversity is designed for young adults with special needs. Join us for a week of Civil War History. On Monday, we will tour SC State House and have lunch at Mellow Mushroom. On Tuesday, we will explore the Confederate Museum with lunch at Chick filA. Then Wednesday, we will travel to Rose Hill Plantation and will we stop for lunch at Subway. Thursday, our last day of camp we will journey to River's
Bridge SHS with lunch at McDonald's.
Social Language Academy
Dates: July 10 - August 9, 2012
Where: Carolina Speech and Language Center, 221 Stallsville Road, Summerville, SC
Cost: $1,250 for 5-week session
$100 Deposit is Due by May 18, 2012
Participants: Children age 6 - teens with speech and language issues.
Description: The Social Language Academy uses a small group setting (6-8 campers each) and takes place each Tuesday and Thursday. Each session lasts for an hour and a half. It aims to facilitate verbal skills with one-on-one support, build social networks through small group activities and interaction with peers, and provide a service bridge through the summer months.
Contact: Social Language Academy flyer
SOAR Camps
Dates: Various camps from June 9 to August 1, 2012
Where: SOAR North Carolina Base Camp, Balsam, NC
Cost: Varies by program.
Participants: Youth to adults with LD/ADHD. Varies by program. See SOAR Summer Course Availability for details.
Description: Success Oriented Achievement Realized features success-oriented, high adventure program for preteens, teens and adults with Learning Disabilities (LD) and Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (AD/HD). Emphasis is placed on developing self-confidence, social skills, problem-solving techniques, a willingness to attempt new challenges and the motivation which comes through successful goal orientation.
Contact: SOAR website
Bridges at the Therapy Place
Dates: Five 2-week sessions from June 4 - August 10, 2012
Where: The Therapy Place,
3620 Covenant Road, Columbia, SC
Cost: $300 per session
Participants: Children ages 2-8 who require physical, occupational, or speech therapy
Description: Bridges at The Therapy Place is a holistic therapeutic approach to child development. It employs the skills and expertise of physical, occupational, and speech therapists, as well as educators, parents, and other staff. The main goal of Bridges is to encourage independence, cognitive development, and socialization. In also uses a transdisciplinary approach to meet the individual needs of the whole child.
Contact: Bridges at the Therapy Place website
Camp Sun Fun
Dates: July 2 - 13, 2012
Where: Kershaw County Recreation Department Gym, 1042 W. DeKalb St., Kershaw, SC
Cost: $40 for one week session, $75 for two week
Pre-registration Required by June 15, 2012
Participants: Ages 6-21 with developmental disabilities
Description: Each year the Recreation Department and the United Way of Kershaw County sponsors a day-camp for the developmentally disabled ages 6 to 21. Activities include arts and crafts, nature study, active and passive games, swimming, dance and rhythm, field trips and more. Free lunches are provided by the United Way and the USDA Summer Food Program. Anyone interested in participating, call the Recreation Department for more details.
Contact: Kershaw County Recreation Department Summer Camps webpage
All Star Gymnastics
Dates: June 2, July 14, and August 18, 2012
Where: All Star Gymnastics, 4046-D Fernandina Rd., Columbia, SC
Cost: $5 per session
Participants: Children ages 4 and up with special needs
Description: All Star Gymnastics' aim is to encourage the individual student, regardless of athletic ability, to set goals and develop life skills that lead to personal success. They promote self-confidence and healthy development in a wholesome enviroment to produce a well rounded child. The special needs sessions will be on Saturdays from 12:15pm-1:30 pm. You must RSVP by Wednesday to secure your child a spot for the upcoming Saturday. They cannot take children unless they have a spot reserved due to safety and staff numbers.
Contact: All Star Gymnastics special needs classes webpage
Asthma
Date: June 18-22, 2012
Where: College of Charleston, Charleston, SC
Cost: $50
Participants: Children ages 8 to 11 who are on daily asthma medication and under a doctor's care are eligible to attend.
Description: Camp Breathe Easy (formerly Camp Puff 'n Stuff) provides asthmatic children with an opportunity to experience camp activities they may otherwise be denied due to their condition. It was designed specifically for children with asthma. Through educational activities, campers learn to understand and manage their illness while improving their self esteem.
Contact: Camp Breathe Easy website
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Date: June 4th to 8th, 2012
Where: Cedar Creek Church, Aiken, SC
Cost: $15 per camper/sibling
Participants: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families
Description: Camp Puzzle Palooza is a multi-faceted event for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Classes are lead by certified teachers and volunteers. Activities include a themed story, arts/crafts, obstacle course, age-appropriate instruction, and facilitated playtime. We will incorporate hands-on learning for an experience that is fun and has real-world meaning. There is also a “Mom’s Brunch” during camp hours.
Contact: Camp Puzzle Palooza website
Date: Mondays - Thursdays; 8:30am - 3:00pm, weeks of June 11th, 18th, 25th, 2012
Where: Hunley Park Elementary School, Charleston, SC
Cost: $300 for campers ($175 for their peers); half-day program for 3 and 4-year-old campers is $175; All Teen Adventure Camp campers are $375
Participants: Campers with autism and friends ages 3-19
Description: Camp Good Times provides the only camp in the Lowcountry devoted exclusively to children with autism and their friends. Our counselors are trained in the field and design programs to promote socialization, opportunities for children to explore their community during planned outings, and for two weeks a year - just be kids.
Typical camp activities include swimming, field trips, sports, arts and crafts, dancing, singing, playing instruments and talent shows. A recreation specialist is on staff to plan outdoor activities. Each year Camp Good Times offers a "sensory room" equipped with a platform swing, body sox, beanbags, a bounce pillow, ball pit, tactile walking path, and other soothing items for campers to enjoy. All programs are specially designed to promote socialization and to explore interaction within the community.
Contact: Camp Good Times website
Date: Session 1 - June 19, 21, 26, and 28; Session 2 - July 3, 5, 10, and 12
Where: Willow Ridge Church, Lexington, SC
Cost: $100 per session (campers who sign up for both get a $25 discount)
Participants: Children ages 10 and up primarily with a diagnosis of Asperger's or PDD-NOS, but diagnoses other than an Autism Spectrum Disorder such as ADHD are admissable.
Description: Camp Teaching Advocacy and Life-skills to Kids (TALK) is an inclusive social skills day camp for kids. One day each week is designated as a field trip day for going out into the community to try new things and practice social skills. The other day each week focuses on guest speakers from around the community, social learning, and team building activities. The staff includes teachers, therapists, and parents of children from across the spectrum. We also have a large junior staff who act as peer mentors/junior counselors from area high schools.
Contact: Camp TALK site
Date: June 6 - 9, 2012
Where: Lake Marion in Summerton, SC
Cost: $680 for one camper.
Participants: Children with ASD and their siblings, ages 7 ‐17. Children with ASD are accepted with or without sibling enrollment. Every effort is made to accommodate the unique needs of each child we serve.
Description: Based at Camp Bob Cooper on Lake Marion in Summerton, the AASC Summer Camp is a partnership between the Autism Academy of South Carolina (AASC) and Clemson University's Youth Learning Institute. It offers enhanced life experiences, personal development, and a time of respite for parents and caregivers. Activities are designed to promote independence and confidence, as well as inspire social skills development through carefully planned, developmentally appropriate experiences.
Contact: 2012 AASC Summer Camp flyer (PDF)
Date: Seven week-long camps in 2012 for children of varying ages (and one week for adults 18+).
Date details on the Camp Lakey Gap site.
Where: Christmount Assembly in Black Mountain, North Carolina
Cost: $1,650 for one camper.
Participants: Children with a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder or a related communication disorder. Must also have manageable behavior and health care needs, to the level of the staff's training. Guardians must live, be vacationing, or have an emergency contact in an 8 hour radius of Black Mountain, North Carolina.
Description: During a week at Camp Lakey Gap (with 1:1 and 1:2 staff support), people with autism develop strong social skills and self esteem by experiencing success with peers, being empowered to take leadership roles, successfully trying new things, and being supported in a positive and loving environment.
Contact: Camp Lakey Gap website
Spectrum Family Camp
Date: Four weekends in May, August, October, and November.
Date details on the Spectrum Camp site.
Where: YMCA Camp Greenville, Cedar Mountain, NC
Cost: $310 (includes 4 people)
Participants: Children with a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder.
Description: Spectrum Family Camp offers families with children on the autism spectrum a fun and safe environment, with well-trained staff that truly understand kids on the spectrum. Traditional camp activities include: archery, hiking, crafts, riflery, canoeing (May, August), swimming (August), fishing, songs and campfires. Each family will have a private bathroom (option to share for a reduced price) and sleeping area in a heated cabin. The camp will t ake care of the details like sensory friendly activities, picture charts for easier transitions, and menus designed to accommodate diets (GF/CF or Feingold? Covered!) upon advanced request.
Contact: Spectrum Family Camp website
Vision and/or Hearing Impairment
Rocky Bottom Retreat Summer Camp
Date: Various dates throughout the summer - Call to schedule
Where: Sunset, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Legally blind children ages 6 through 15.
Description: Children are taught skills to cope with blindness and that it is respectable to be blind. Utilizing blind counselors to act as role models, Rocky Bottom Retreat and Conference Center of the Blind provides all the experiences of any Retreat including swimming, mountain hiking, arts & crafts, cookouts, fishing and field trips. Limited transportation is also available.
Contact: Rocky Bottom Retreat website
Date: July 15 - 21, 2012
Where: Hilton Head, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Children ages 7-16 who are legally blind
Description: Camp Leo provides a camping experience where participants live and play together in a dormitory setting. It provides the children an opportunity for recreational activities not available at home as well as learning experiences (crafts, nature walks, dances, etc.). The camp is sponsosred by the Hilton Head and Sun City Lion's Clubs of Scouth Carolina and many local businesses and individuals.
Contact: Camp Leo overview and contact info
Date: July 8 - 14, 2012
Where: Clemson Outdoor Lab, 415 Charlie White Trail, Pendleton, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Children with visual impairments, ages 7 - 17
Description: Serving the visually handicapped children of South Carolina, this program is sponsored by the Mid-Day Lions Club of Anderson, SC and the South Carolina Lions, Inc. Any child with a visual impairment between the ages of 7 and 17 may attend. Because of the dedication and support of SC Lions Clubs, there is no fee for attendance.
Contact: cuolcamps-L@clemson.edu
Website: http://www.sclions.org/programs/camp-lions-den.html
Date: Dates to be decided; check Camp Sertoma website
Where: Clemson Outdoor Lab, 415 Charlie White Trail, Pendleton, SC
Cost: Free, but chosen by club members
Participants: Ages 7 – 13 years old who are underprivileged or have speech/hearing impairments
Description: Sponsored by the Sertoma clubs of South Carolina, this program serves children between the ages of 7-13 who are either underprivileged or who have speech/hearing impairments. Children are placed in groups with seven other children according to age and previous camp experience with two counselors. The program offers opportunities for fun, skills development and education in an outdoor environment. Because of the support of Sertoma Clubs across the state, there is no fee to attend.
Application: Children are first selected from various schools by the Sertoma Clubs spread across the state. Applicants to the camp are put on a list. If there are cancellations or openings after this selection, then those on the list are offered the chance to attend.
Contact: Camp Sertoma website
SCSDB William W. All Adventure Camp
Date: June 17-23, 2012
Where: Spartanburg, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Children between 6 and 14 with either a hearing or vision loss that affects learning (there are separate camps for hearing loss and vision loss). They must also be a Sourth Carolina resistent, toilet-trained, have the physical, mental and behavioral capabilities to benefit from the programs offered during the camp, and not have attended SCSDB during the 2011-2012 school year.
Description: The Adventure Camp is divided into separate camps for hearing loss and vision loss. Each camp has special activities for their respective campers, like Braille lessons for the visually impaired and special cochlear implant activities for those with hearing loss. In addition, both camps offer field trips,confidence-building activities, independent living skills activities, skits/camp songs, swimming, horseback riding, and scuba diving.
DEADLINE: May 28, 2012
Contact: SC School for the Deaf and Blind Summer Camps website
Date: July 22 - 27, 2012
Where: Camp Kinard, Batesburg-Leesville, SC
Cost: Free (thanks to scholarships)
Participants: Ages 7 – 15 years old who are deaf or hard of hearing
Description: Camp Wonder Hands is a six-day, overnight camp located at Camp Kinard Lutheran Conference Center in the Batesburg-Leesville community of Lexington County South Carolina. This camp offers enriching activities and interaction with positive deaf and hard-of-hearing adult and college aged role models from our community. The Camp Wonder Hands summer camp is unique in that it is the first, and at present, the only opportunity of its kind for deaf and hard-of-hearing children in the Midlands
Contact: Camp Wonderhands website
Date: June 10 - 29, 2012
Where: SC Commission for the Blind, Columbia, SC
Cost: Contact for details
Participants: Teens 16years old with sever visual impairments
Description: The Summer Teen Program is designed to provide meaningful work experience and vocational exploration to teens. It also reinforces and expands adjustments to blindness skills and facilitates positive attitudes toward blindness while providing recreational, leisure and cultural experiences.
Contact: SC Commission for the Blind website
SC School for the Deaf and Blind Outreach Services
While not a summer camp, the School for the Deaf and Blind does offer special programs during the summer for children who are sensory disabled. You can find more details and contact information on the SCSDB Outreach Services page.
Cancer and Blood Disorders
Date: Various weekends through the summer; contact Camp Courage for more info
Where: Pleasant Ridge Camp and Retreat Center, 4232 Highway 11,
Marietta, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Children and teens with cancer or blood disorders
Description: At Camp Courage, campers are free to play, laugh, explore, and grow in a normal developmentally appropriate way. Trained counselors and volunteers help to nurture the campers' self-confidence and provide therapeutic opportunities for individual development. The camp provides a number of traditional outdoor activities such as swimming, canoeing, wall climbing, and more. Staff of the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Center, a facility of the Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center's Children's Hospital, provides 24 hour medical supervision while children are at camp.
Website: Camp Courage webpage
Date: June 11 - 16, 2012
Where: Kinard Conference Center,
Leesville, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Children who have or have had cancer between the ages of 5 and 18 years and siblings of children with cancer between the ages of 7 and 16 years, who receive their therapy at the Children's Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders of Children’s Hospital
Description: Camp Kemo is a weeklong summer camp for patients with cancer, ages 5–18, and their siblings. Staffed by physicians, nurses and volunteers, Camp Kemo allows campers to swim, boat, hike, and simply be children. The fun times at Camp Kemo lay important groundwork for future treatment as participants learn to trust, respect and relate to one another.
Website: Camp Kemo webpage
Date: Two sessions - June 14-17, 2012 and June 21-24, 2012
Where: Beulah Land Plantation in Latta, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Families with children diagnosed with cancer between ages 4-14.
FAMILIES ARE SELECTED ONLY BY REFERRAL FROM A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
Description: Camp Debbie Lou is nestled in the scenic eastern coastal region of South Carolina. The low-country ranch sits on 150 acres in Latta, South Carolina and serves as a retreat for families needing to kick up their heels, share some laughter, and relax by a lakeside gazebo. Kids and parents can spin their wheels on the custom-designed go-cart track, splash around in bumper boats, or take a relaxing walk on the nature trails. There's something for everyone to enjoy including archery, horseshoes, crafts, and games.
Website: Camp Debbie Lou webpage
Date: July 1 - 7, 2012
Where: Camp Bob Cooper, Summerton, SC
Cost: Free
Participants: Children with cancer and siblings who are between the ages of 4-16 or age 17 if they have never attended Camp Happy Days in the past.
Description: Camp Happy Days is an action-packed week filled with more head-spinning, heart-pounding fun than a child could ever imagine. Each day children have access to waterfront activities like parasailing, swimming, boating, tubing, and fishing, as well as special program areas like woodworking, arts and crafts, painting, sewing, baking, ceramics, a giant climbing wall, high ropes adventure course and team building challenges. At night they will take part in theme dances, a talent show, professional entertainment, and classic camp experiences.
Website: Camp Happy Days webpage
Mental Health
Date: Week-long sessions throughout the Summer
Where: Boyd Hill Recreation Center, 1165 Constitution Blvd., Rock Hill, SC
Cost: $15 per one‐week session
Participants: Children and adults with mental disabilities
Description: Camp Arc is a week‐long day camp predominately for children and adults with special needs. Sessions run throughout the summer. This is a mainstreamed camp where children with and without disabilities will enjoy a variety of activities. Sessions include: Children’s Camp, Children with Multiple Handicaps and Adult Camp. Registration is first‐come, first-served. A special event and a t‐shirt are included in the cost.
Contact: Rock Hill Tourism webpage on Camp Arc
Summer Camps outside of South Carolina
Extra Special People (ESP) Summer Camp
Date: Seven week-long camps from June 4 - July 27, 2012
Where: Watkinsville, GA
Cost:
- $65 - One-time registration and summer camp activity fee
- $200 - Each week of day camp ($100 if 100 Parent Involvement Credits are earned by 4/15/11)
- $250 - “No Kids Allowed” for ages 16+ (Week 3)
- $250 - Residential Week at Camp Twin Lakes (Week 6)
Participants: All individuals with a diagnosed developmental disability, starting at age 4.
Description: A seven week program that provides continuous learning as well as social and recreational opportunities for young people with disabilities. Camp runs 9:00am- 3:00pm. Before/after care can be arranged with individual staff for extra charges. Day camp is split into 4 units by age: Youngest, Younger-Middle, Older-Middle, and Oldest units.
Contact: Extra Special People Summer Camp website
Victory JunctionDate: Various themed weeks from June 10 - August 15, 2012 for the Summer with separately scheduled weekends. See the full Victory Junction schedule for more details.
Where: Randleman, NC
Cost: Free
Participants: Children between 6 and 16 with a diagnosis in accordance with one of the many accepted conditions. The camp also has a page with eligibility requirements.
Description: Victory Junction enriches the lives of children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses by providing life-changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun, and empowering, in a safe and medically-sound environment. Located in Randleman, NC, Victory Junction is built upon 84 beautiful acres donated by Richard and Lynda Petty. Themed around NASCAR racing, the camp is echoes the sights, sounds, and feel of a real racetrack.
Contact: The Victory Junction Contact page has a number of different e-mail addresses parents can use, each addressing a different concern. There is also a toll-free number: 877-VJG-CAMP
Camp CaglewoodDate: Various weekend camps starting June 8, 2012
Where: Flowery Branch, GA
Cost: All summer programs are $200
Participants: Children and adults diagnosed with developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder, PDD, Down Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy.
Description: Caglewood is a Special Needs Camping Program that serves individuals with developmental disabilities through active programming that provides enhanced life experiences, personal development, and respite opportunities. They have several weekend camps available for the summer:
- Amicalola Falls
June 8-10, 2012
Campers will head to Amicalola Falls State Park on Friday afternoon and sleep in the campground on friday night. Saturday will bring a 5 mile hike along the AT approach trail to the Len Foote Inn or Hike Inn. The inn is a sustainably designed Georgia State Park facility nestled in the Chattahoochee National Forest. there we will enjoy hot showers, fresh linens and home-cooked meals. - White Water Rafting
July 27-29, 2012
North Carolina's shimmering Nantahala River offers river rafting through family-friendly rapids that are mild but exciting. The Nantahala features eight miles of practice on easy Class II rapids before splashing through the exciting Class III whitewater of Nantahala Falls.
Contact: Camp Caglewood website
Bay Cliff Summer Therapy CampDate: A seven week-long program starting June 16, 2012
Where: Big Bay, MI
Cost: E-mail Bay Cliff for price as it changes every year
Participants: Children, age 3-17, who move, speak, hear and/or see in a way that is different from their peers, due to a physical impairment, health issue or communication impairment.
Description: Bay Cliff provides a therapy-rich environment for children with physical impairments. Each camper receives an individualized plan, based on their needs, of one or more of the therapies listed below:
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech Theraphy
- Hearing
- Vision
- Music Therapy
- Recreation Therapy
Contact: Bay Cliff Summer Therapy Camp website
Camp To Be IndependentDate: July 15 - 20, 2012
Where: Camp Twin Lakes, Rutledge, GA
Cost: Free
Participants: Children and adults ages 8 – 21 with traumatic brain injury. The camp usually hosts between 35 and 40 kids.
Description: Camp TBI offers parents/caregivers a respite while their children enjoy the fully accessible facilities at Camp Twin Lakes. Children will enjoy fishing, archery, arts and crafts, a zip line, bicycling, swimming, dancing, karaoke and talent nights in the care of counselors provided by the Medical College of Georgia Occupational Therapy School.
Contact: Camp To Be Indpendent website
Camp ChatterboxDate: August 19 - 25, 2012
Where: Outdoor Center at Happiness is Camping, 62 Sunset Lake Road, Hardwick, NJ
Cost: The cost of attending Camp Chatterbox is $1,000 for a child and parent. This includes a $550 Therapy fee and a $450 Camp fee. There is a full breakdown of Camp Chatterbox cost for extra family member or campers plus discounts for early registration.
Participants: Children ages 5-15 who are nonspeaking or severely speech impaired and functionally use synthesized Augmentative & Alternative Communication devices
Description: Camp Chatterbox, founded by Joan Bruno in 1992, is an intensive therapy camp for children, ages 5 -15, who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices and a training program for their parents. It is sponsored by the Children's Specialized Hospital in Mountainside, NJ.
Contact: Camp Chatterbox website
Camp CommunicateDate: Friday, August 24 to Sunday, August 26, 2012
Where: Pine Tree Camp, Rome, ME
Cost: Contact Linda Bonnar-Ivery for the current Camp Communicate price
Participants: Ages 8-20; use a high tech communication device; be accompanied by a caregiver. There are two programs, one for ages 8-14 and another for ages 15-20. Each program has a limit of 10 participants.
Description: Camp Communicate is an innovative weekend designed specifically for non-verbal children who use computerized devices, known as augmentative communication, to communicate. Each camper attends Camp Communicate along with a parent/caregiver. Parents will have the opportunity to attend workshops and share information and strategies in a supportive environment. Learning opportunities for parents will support more effective augmentative communication device use at home and will foster more proficient use in school.
Contact: Camp Communicate website
Courage CampsDate: Various from June 17 - August 5
Where: Maple Lake, MN
Cost: Varies. Camp offers scholarships for campers who need financial assistance. Qualified applicants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Participants: Varies depending on camp; See website for more information
Description: There are a very large variety of camps for people with disabilities organized by the Courage Camps. Below are only a couple of them. Please visit the website for a wealth of camps provided. Since 1955, Courage Camps offer safe, accessible, natural environments where children and adults with physical disabilities, sensory and language impairments, and other disabilities or illnesses discover abilities they never knew they had or they thought they had lost. Campers make new friends, and are often introduced to sports or hobbies they develop further at home or at school.
Contact: Courage Camps website
Some of the camps offered:
- Literacy Session
June 17 - 22, 2012 – Ages 12 to 18This unique session is for campers who are struggling readers. Campers’ reading skills range from beginning readers to reading several years behind grade level. In addition to enjoying the many fun recreational activities offered, campers work daily with educational specialists on literacy-related activities. The session is under the direction of national literacy experts Drs. David Koppenhaver and Karen Erickson. Informal descriptive reports of literacy assessments and interventions are provided to families and campers to take back to their home schools. Campers attending this session should be independent in their personal care needs and have a means of communication, which may include an AAC (augmentative communication) system.
Fee: $850 - Youth Session
July 23 - 27, 2012 – Ages 7 to 12Designed for campers with a physical disability or visual impairment, this session provides opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities ranging from swimming and horseback riding to sailing and crafts. As part of this experience, youth increase self-confidence, learn responsibility and develop essential leadership skills.
Fee: $850 -
Teen Session
July 23 - 27, 2012 – Ages 13 to 17This session is designed for teens with a physical disability or visual impairment. Enjoy a fun-filled week of traditional camp activities such as sailing, fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, digital photography, nature and environmental studies, arts and crafts, and overnight camping. In addition to having fun, campers learn social and leadership skills and gain independence in a safe environment. Campers select activities based on their individual interests.
Fee: $850 -
Communication Disorders
July 29 - Aug. 3, 2012 – Ages 7 to 14Help your child maintain valuable speech skills over the long summer break. Geared for youngsters who have a primary diagnosis of a speech, language or hearing disorder. Counselors and program staff reinforce camper language and communication skills throughout the day in activities ranging from swimming and boating to horseback riding and crafts.
Fee: $850 -
Cabin Fever Family Camp
Mar 29 - Apr 1, 2012By now you may be through with winter, but it may not be through with you! Get out of the house and come to Camp Courage for some end of winter fun. If there is still snow on the ground, we will go sliding, skiing or snow shoeing. If there is no snow on the ground, we will enjoy being outside, flying kites and hiking in the cool spring air. Either way, it will be FUN! The indoor pool and gymnasium will be open no matter the weather and activities will be adapted to fit your interests and abilities.
Fee: $60 per person per night -
Howdy Pardner! Family Camp
June 21 - 24, 2012This family camp session is for all you horse lovers! We are going to ride ‘em, groom ‘em, maybe even try to rope ‘em … giddy up cowpokes! In addition to horses, we will enjoy all of the other fun family camp activities. YeeHaw!
Fee: $60 per person per night - Fishing & Fun Family Camp
June 28 - July 1, 2012Do you love to fish? So do we! Come and join us as we offer the option to go fishing in the morning, fishing in the afternoon, and fishing in the evening. Those of you who live with fishing fanatics but don’t share the same enthusiasm about fishing may choose to participate in traditional family camp activities. The final night of camp we will have a big Fish Fry!
Fee: $60 per person per night - Power Soccer Family Camp
August 11-16, 2012Join us for six days of power soccer training and camp fun. Top power soccer coaches and players from across the United States teach you the latest drills and training methods to make you the best power soccer player ever! If you are a first timer or a current player, come and learn the latest techniques and drills from the experts! Families are welcome to participate.
Fee: $60 per person per night - Camp Discovery 1 & 2
Co-sponsored with the Autism Society of Minnesota at Camp Courage
Session 1: June 24 - 29, 2012
Session 2 July 10 - 15, 2012Two, five day sessions for children with Asperger’s Syndrome. For more information and an application, call the Autism Society of Minnesota at (651)647-1083.
- Oncology/Blood Disorder Session
Co-sponsored by Children’s Hospitals and Clinics - Minneapolis and The Miracles of Mitch Foundation
July 17 - 21, 2012Campers, ages 7 to 17, who have or had leukemia or other blood disorders, brain tumors and other forms of cancer, or get to know their peers in a safe, healthy, recreational setting. Siblings can participate in a special program that focuses on living with a brother or sister with cancer. Activities range from crafts and nature study to photography, swimming, horseback riding and more. Link to Oncology/Blood Disorders/Siblings Camp Application.
- Hemophilia Session
Co-sponsored by the Hemophilia Foundation of Minnesota and Dakotas
August 5 - 10, 2012Geared for children who have hemophilia and other related bleeding disorders. Campers take advantage of the safe facilities and great outdoor settings to explore their interests. Applications can be requested from the Courage Center Camps office at 763.520.0504 or camping@couragecenter.org
Links
To search for more special needs camps, you can try this site:
Very Special Camps - http://www.veryspecialcamps.com/