Camps

Some people’s idea of roughing it is being far enough from home that Domino’s will no longer deliver.  While “rough” is a relative term, there is more to camping than getting out of the city service area.  It’s a way to be close to nature, to simplify, to cut the electronic umbilical cords and conveniences we take for granted.  Getting away might mean car or motor home camping within a designated site.  It might mean getting off the beaten path and deep into the woods.  It might also mean participating in a specific camp program designed for you or your loved one’s special needs.

Where to look?  State and national parks are a good place to start.  As mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act, these parks typically have accessible accommodations, bathrooms and level ground.  Progress toward accessibility continues but you can find many camp areas that are inclusive.  Be prepared and be creative.  To get started, check with your state’s outdoor recreation or state parks agency.  You may need reservations.

If you would like to pursue the organized camp route, check out the calendars and program lists for organizations you are either a member of or are interested in.  Some examples: the Muscular Dystrophy Association offers a camp program and Post-Polio Health International provides camps for vent-dependent children.  Countless camps are available for children and for just about every disability.  There are summer camps, overnight camps and day camps.  Some organizations list by state and even community, others by recreational activity such as: fishing, kayaking, skiing and hunting.  Wherever your search takes you, you will be sure to find plenty of options to choose from.