Disability Camps: What to Consider

There are hundreds of incredible overnight camps that let kids be kids regardless of their ability. Thinking of sending your child or teen with a disability, chronic illness, or special need to overnight camp but not sure where to start? Here are some important details to consider before you start searching.

Ready to start exploring camps? Our fast, modern camp search lets you filter camps by specific disabilities or needs!

Types of Disability Camps

Dedicated disability camps

• Geared entirely around accommodating campers with a specific disability
• Most campers attending have a disability or condition
• Facilities, activities, and programming are fully accessible
• Knowledgeable staff with experience in that disability or condition
• Most disabilities or conditions are supported

Inclusion programs

• Found at general population camps where campers with disabilities are integrated and included in the main program alongside their able-bodied peers
• Most campers attending DO NOT have a disability or condition
• Additional accommodations are made (housing, staffing)
• Only mild to moderate disabilities or conditions are typically supported

Separate sessions

• A separate session (typical one week) exclusively for accommodating a specific disability or condition
• Most campers attending have a disability or condition
• Allows the camp to tweak their programming and make adjustments to support these campers

Other Considerations

• Many disability camps are entirely free and no cost to families
• Some camps allow siblings or friends to attend alongside campers with disabilities
• Some camps run a “sibling session” for siblings only to have a week just for them