Guide to Summer Camps Outside of FCPS
Resources for the Community
The resources listed here are provided for informational purposes only. They do not reflect recommendations or endorsements by Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) or the FCPS Family Resource Center.
Summer Camps
Here is a pdf of the content below.
- 703-222-4664
- Grades 1-6
- Rec-PAC operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six-week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children.
- Participants will have an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities such as: fun and fitness, indoor and outdoor games, team sports, nature, crafts, storytelling, sports festivals, talent shows, and supervised play sessions. Each location has a ratio of 1 staff person to 18 participants.
- 703-593-4777
- Ages 5 – 11
- Campers create, build, and observe a variety of projects to explore science. 30 locations around the DC area. Call for accommodations for children with special needs.
- 703-324-4600
- Ages 12-18
- Offers an engaging, healthy, and affordable recreation program for youth ages 12 to 18 to learn, play, and serve. Activities include team sports, games, arts and crafts, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programming, service projects, cultural field trips, and much more! Free nutritious lunches and snacks are served.
Value in Prevention (V.I.P.) Camp
V.I.P. Camp is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, guaranteeing a quality program for your child.
- 703-324-8571
- Summer camps are designed for families needing full-day activities or those interested in just a few hours of hands-on activities.
- 703-591-3689
- Provides programs that will allow children to grow and develop intellectually, physically, culturally, and socially. Campers will have the benefit of learning from role models while spending quality time.
Institute for the Arts (IFTA): Camps and Institutes
Students Currently in grades 6-11
- The Institute for the Arts (IFTA) is a two or three-week summer enrichment program for students in middle school and high school. Students select from nearly 60 classes in Art, Dance, Health and PE9 * Music and Theatre
- * High school students can select Health and PE 9. This course satisfies graduation requirements. They must register for the three-week program.
- Grades K-5
- A weekly exploratory camp designed to allow students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, business, and marketing areas. The camp is open to students in grades K-5 during the 2023-24 school year. Students must be at least six years old by the first day of camp.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) Summer Academy
- Students Currently in grades 6-11
- CTE Summer Academy (CSA) is a weekly enrichment program that allows students to Dive deeper into Career and Technical Education (CTE)program areas. Develop new or existing skills. Begin career exploration. Students can personalize their experience by choosing which CTE classes they will take!
Elementary Institute for the Arts (E-IFTA)
- E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary-aged students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four classes every day related to dance, music, theatre, and visual art.
- They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create classes that are fun and engaging.
- 703-539-2602
- An array of camps throughout Northern Virginia that fits every personality, including Sports/PE, Science, STEM, Arts and Crafts, Performance, and more.
- Falls Church, VA
- 703-399-3600
- Kindergarten - 18+
- Empower Kids camps will include all the traditional camp experiences of cooperative games, craft projects, and outdoor play, PLUS gymnastics, ninja, mindfulness, social-emotional learning, and STEAM.
- Alexandria, VA
Northern Virginia Community College Summer Programs
- 703-323-3000
- Camps are focused on hands-on, project-based learning that provides students with opportunities to begin exploring STEM fields and to chart a course for future STEM education and workforce opportunities. The STEM camp tracks include Coding, Robotics, Cybersecurity, Fabrication, Rocketry, and more.
- 703-790-0123
- Offers a variety of camps. Full-day, half-day, and day trips.
- 703-790-1953
- They offer various art camps for ages 3- 13.
- 703-323-0880
- Camp Achva and Camp Kesher provide fun and formative summer experiences for school-age children in grades K–10.
- 540-471-1659
- Ages 6 – Adult
- A summer day camp program for individuals with special needs and at-risk youth. Offers a place for children to improve social skills, stay active and have fun. The camp is offered for families at no cost so that children with medical, physical, behavioral, and other special needs, as well as at-risk youth, can enjoy the excitement of the camp, and build lifetime friendships with other children with a similar background.
- Waynesboro, VA
Summer Camp STEM Space Center
- 626-234-1628
- Summer camp STEM education activities with a space theme to explore, imagine, and design.
- Rising 6th-9th grades and more
- George Mason University
- Mason hosts a variety of academic, visual, and performing arts, sports, and recreation camps and youth programs with a wide array of topics and themes.
- K-12
- George Mason University
- 804-665-1272
- 804-358-1874
- Ages 6-Adult
- Provides traditional day and overnight summer camp activities for individuals with disabilities to participate in diverse activities with the help of trained staff.
- Richmond, VA
Treatment and Learning Center Summer Programs TLC
- 301-424-5200
- Ages 2.5 – 18
- TLC’s Speech-Language and Occupational Therapy Summer Camps serve young children with speech-language and occupational therapy needs ages 2.5 to 7. Our Learning Enrichment program through the Katherine Thomas School serves students with language, learning, and sensory-motor disabilities and/or high-functioning autism K-8 in the lower/middle school and grades 9-12 in the high school. This camp serves children who need help with or need sensory integration, occupational therapy, speech/language, learning enrichment, and handwriting.
- Rockville, Maryland
Fitness for Health Therapeutic Services & Training Center
- 301-231-7138
- Ages 4-10
- Social Team Building for children with Social Challenges ages 4-10, is an integrated movement and social thinking program.
- Rockville, MD
- 540-471-1659
- Ages 6 – Adult
- A summer day camp program for individuals with special needs and at-risk youth. Offers a place for children to improve social skills, stay active and have fun. The camp is offered for families at no cost so that children with medical, physical, behavioral, and other special needs, as well as at-risk youth, can enjoy the excitement of the camp, and build lifetime friendships with other children with similar backgrounds.
- Waynesboro, VA
LCF KIDS - Get Moving! Get Social! Therapeutic Summer Camp
- 703-909-7971
- Therapeutic, fitness, and social skills camp for children with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, motor delay, learning disabilities, and social skills needs. Building children’s self-esteem, self-confidence, and physical ability through sports and social activities. Focuses on improving communication skills, teamwork, cooperation, and social skills. Siblings without disabilities are welcome as well.
- Falls Church and Ashburn, VA
Pozez Jewish Community Center Day Camps
- 703-322-0880
- Camp Achva provides experiences for children in grades K–10. Following a traditional day camp model, they create a safe & inclusive space for campers and staff to learn & grow through building friendships with each other, engaging in meaningful programming, and embracing camp traditions infused with Jewish culture.
- Camp Kesher is an opportunity for teens (rising 11th & 12th graders), young adults, and adults offered by the Inclusion and Disability Services Department at the Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia. This pilot program allows campers to make new friends and gain confidence through success in fun activities such as art, sports and games, music, yoga, theme days, and much more in a caring, friendly, and supportive environment. Each week, there are a variety of field trips planned for exploration and experiencing all that Greater DC has to offer.
- Fairfax, VA
- 404-285-0467
- Aerie’s programs provide experiences that integrate and promote the overall individual treatment plan of each camper. Aerie focuses on children, individuals, and families navigating Asperger's, High Functioning Autism, Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Neurobiological Disorders, and other special needs. Camps: Coastal Expedition, Paddle Camp, Arts & Adventure, Animal Farm (Zoo) and Carnival, Scuba Camp, and others.
- 571-293-2311
- Develop fun programs for children with disabilities
- Leesburg, Virginia
- 540-947-2972
- 800-865-0092
- Camp Virginia Jaycee is a year-round residential outdoor recreation and educational facility for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Children and adults with special needs can be helped physically, mentally, and emotionally by an outdoor education and recreation experience.
- Blue Ridge, VA
- 703-449-8989
- This full-day program for rising 1st through 7th graders features opportunities in outdoor adventures, performing arts, sports and recreation, visual arts, science, technology, engineering, math exploration, and much more!
- 703-222-4664
- All Ages
- This is Fairfax County’s listing of all summer programs. However, they provide a significant amount of adaptive programs for children and adults.
- Multiple locations in Fairfax County
- 703-324-8563
- All Rec-PAC programs are inclusive, however, targeted sites are designed to provide kids with disabilities the opportunity to engage in a variety of recreation activities with peers without disabilities in large group situations.
- 703-324-5532
- Therapeutic Recreation offers summer camp experiences for individuals (ages 5-22) with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, physical disabilities, emotional disabilities, learning disabilities, and/or attention deficit disorders. The summer will be packed full of special events, art activities, sensory play, games, sports, outdoor play, music activities, and more.
Camp Pocono Trails for kids, teens, and young adults
- 1-800-365-0556
- Camp Pocono Trails helps teens struggling with issues like impulse control, social Issues, anxiety, technology addiction, trauma, video game addiction, autism spectrum, low self-esteem, school refusal, social isolation, family conflict, addictive behaviors, poor communication skills, ADHD, and depression. Camp Pocono Trails helps campers with one or more of the following focus areas: weight loss& weight management, fitness& sports skills, Nutrition& culinary skills, video game habit reversal, social media overuse/misuse, self-esteem building, social skills building, and self-regulation skills.
- Reeders, PA
- 804-358-1874
- Ages 6-Adult
- Provides traditional day and overnight summer camp activities for individuals with disabilities to participate in diverse activities with the help of trained staff.
- Richmond, VA
Treatment and Learning Center Summer Programs TLC
- 301-424-5202
- Ages 2.5 – 18
- TLC’s Speech-Language and Occupational Therapy Summer Camps serve young children with speech-language and occupational therapy needs ages 2.5 to 7. Our Learning Enrichment program through the Katherine Thomas School serves students with language, learning, and sensory-motor disabilities and/or high-functioning autism K-8 in the lower/middle school and grades 9-12 in the high school. This camp serves children who need help with or need sensory integration, occupational therapy, speech/language, learning enrichment, and handwriting.
- Rockville, Maryland
- 540-471-1659
- Ages 6 – Adult
- A summer day camp program for individuals with special needs and at-risk youth. Offers a place for children to improve social skills, stay active, and have fun. The camp is offered for families at no cost so that children with medical, physical, behavioral, and other special needs, as well as at-risk youth, can enjoy the excitement of the camp, and build lifetime friendships with other children with similar backgrounds.
- Waynesboro, VA
LCF KIDS - Get Moving! Get Social! Therapeutic Summer Camp
- 703-909-7971
- Therapeutic, fitness, and social skills camp for children with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, motor delay, learning disabilities, and social skills needs. Building children’s self-esteem, self-confidence, and physical ability through sports and social activities. Focuses on improving communication skills, teamwork, cooperation, and social skills. Siblings without disabilities are welcome as well.
- Falls Church and Ashburn, VA
Pozez Jewish Community Center Day Camps
- 703-322-0880
- Camp Achva provides experiences for children in grades K–10. Following a traditional day camp model, they create a safe & inclusive space for campers and staff to learn & grow through building friendships with each other, engaging in meaningful programming, and embracing camp traditions infused with Jewish culture.
- Camp Kesher is an opportunity for teens (rising 11th & 12th graders), young adults, and adults offered by the Inclusion and Disability Services Department at the Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia. This pilot program allows campers to make new friends, and gain confidence through success in fun activities such as art, sports and games, music, yoga, theme days, and much more in a caring, friendly, and supportive environment. Each week, there are a variety of field trips planned for exploration and experiencing all that Greater DC has to offer.
- Fairfax, VA
- 404-285-0467
- Aerie’s programs provide experiences that integrate and promote the overall individual treatment plan of each camper. Aerie focuses on children, individuals, and families navigating Asperger's, High Functioning Autism, Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Neurobiological Disorders, and other special needs. Camps: Coastal Expedition, Paddle Camp, Arts & Adventure, and others.
- 571- 293-2311
- Develop fun programs for teens with disabilities.
- Leesburg, Virginia
- 732-737-8279
- Camp Virginia Jaycee is a year-round residential outdoor recreation and educational facility for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Children and adults with special needs can be helped physically, mentally, and emotionally by an outdoor education and recreation experience.
- Blue Ridge, VA
- 703-449-8989
- This full-day program for rising 1st through 7th graders features opportunities in outdoor adventures, performing arts, sports and recreation, visual arts, science, technology, engineering, math exploration, and much more!
- 703-222-4664
- All Ages
- This is Fairfax County’s listing of all summer programs. However, they provide a significant number of adaptive programs for children and adults.
- Multiple locations in Fairfax County
- 703-324-8727
- All Rec-PAC programs are inclusive, however, targeted sites are designed to provide kids with disabilities the opportunity to engage in a variety of recreation activities with peers without disabilities in large group situations.
- 703-324-5532
- All ages
- Therapeutic Recreation offers summer camp experiences for individuals (ages 5-22) with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, physical disabilities, emotional disabilities, learning disabilities, and/or attention deficit disorders. The summer will be packed full of special events, art activities, sensory play, games, sports, outdoor play, music activities, and more.
Camp Pocono Trails for kids, teens, and young adults.
- 1-800-365-0556
- Camp Pocono Trails helps teens struggling with issues like impulse control, social Issues, anxiety, technology addiction, trauma, video game addiction, autism spectrum, low self-esteem, school refusal, social isolation, family conflict, addictive behaviors, poor communication skills, ADHD, and depression. Camp Pocono Trails helps campers with one or more of the following focus areas: weight loss& weight management, fitness& sports skills, Nutrition& culinary skills, video game habit reversal, social media overuse/misuse, self-esteem building, social skills building, and self-regulation skills.
Reeders, PA
- 1-866-680-4744
- Grades 3 – 10
- A three-and-a-half week sleep away camp for kids with Asperger’s Syndrome, high-functioning autism and nonverbal learning disabilities to make friends and grow socially.
- Vermont and Wisconsin
- 617-882-2267
- A camp and college readiness program for high school teens with Asperger’s, or similar ASD (Autism) profile, and ADD/ADHD. Participants practice post-secondary independent living skills, experience adventure, and develop life-long friendships, all while preparing for their transition to college and beyond.
- Grades Kindergarten – rising 9th grade.
- Offers activities designed to foster friendships, self-awareness, exploration, and social success. Many students at Camp Aristotle experience challenges associated with High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, receptive/expressive/pragmatic language challenges, and ADHD. Students at Camp Aristotle may have trouble with peer relationships and/or impulse control. Sometimes, they have previously experienced unhappiness and frustration in camps where their need for tools such as sensory breaks was not respected or understood. Our teachers and staff are specially trained to understand these needs to provide all campers with a fulfilling and bully-free camp experience.
- Baltimore, MD/Fairfax, VA/Silver Spring, MD
- 443-518-7671
- Ages 7 – 13
- A summer recreation program for children with severe emotional and behavioral disorders. The campers come with a variety of difficulties/diagnoses ranging from poor peer and family relations, ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, high-functioning autism, oppositional defiant disorder, and problems with expressing feelings and coping appropriately.
- Columbia, MD
- 703-392-6166
- Day camp specializing in children with autism, designed to meet the developmental needs of the participants. ABA coaches and special education teachers provide support for IEP goals and Virginia Standards of Learning.
- Manassas, VA
- 804-754-0000
- A summer day camp offering social skills programming combined with recreational opportunities to children and young adults ages 13 and up. Each week is focused on a specific skill and is learned through outings, art, music, themed activities, and individual and group projects. We practice skills out in the community three to four days per week. RAIN uses an evidence-based peer-to-peer model in all programs. Peer-to-peer support programs and the inclusion of students with ASD not only contribute to positive outcomes for the campers with ASD but can also impact several outcomes for peers.
- 1-808-697-6313
- Ages 6 – 22
- Traditional residential adventure camp for children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and similar neurodevelopmental disorders. Many different camping experiences are designed to build confidence, problem-solve, and gain responsibility.
- Zirconia, NC
- 404-285-0467
- Aerie’s programs provide experiences that integrate and promote the overall individual treatment plan of each camper. Aerie focuses on children, individuals, and families navigating Asperger's, High Functioning Autism, Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Neurobiological Disorders, and other special needs. Camps: Coastal Expedition, Paddle Camp, Arts & Adventure, Animal Farm (Zoo) and Carnival, Scuba Camp, and others.
- 757-422-2040
- Week-long day camps for students with autism ages 6 and older.
- Virginia Beach, VA 23451
- 757-422-2040
- Learning to ride a bike creates opportunities for children with autism to develop social interaction skills, improve fitness, and boost their self-confidence. Biking is enjoyed almost everywhere at any time of the year by people of all ages and genders. It is also a valuable mode of transportation. FACT partners with iCan Bike to teach individuals with developmental disabilities ages 8 and older how to ride traditional two-wheel bicycles.
Camp Pocono Trails for kids, teens, and young adults
- 1-800-365-0556
- Camp Pocono Trails helps teens struggling with issues like impulse control, social Issues, anxiety, technology addiction, trauma, video game addiction, autism spectrum, low self-esteem, school refusal, social isolation, family conflict, addictive behaviors, poor communication skills, ADHD, and depression.
- Camp Pocono Trails helps campers with one or more of the following focus areas: weight loss& weight management, fitness& sports skills, Nutrition& culinary skills, video game habit reversal, social media overuse/misuse, self-esteem building, social skills building, and self-regulation skills.
- Reeders, PA
- Grades Kindergarten – 12
- Camp for students who have trouble with peer relationships and/or impulse control. Weekly themes are chosen with input from students and activities are carefully designed to foster friendships, self-awareness, exploration, and social success.
- Baltimore, MD/Fairfax, VA/Silver Spring, MD
Camp Aristotle Silver Spring Camp
- Offer activities designed to foster friendships, self-awareness, exploration, and social success. Many students at Camp Aristotle experience challenges associated with High Functioning Autism, receptive and expressive/pragmatic language challenges, and ADHD.
- 404-285-0467
- Aerie’s programs provide experiences that integrate and promote the overall individual treatment plan of each camper. Aerie focuses on children, individuals, and families navigating Asperger's, High Functioning Autism, Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Neurobiological Disorders, and other special needs. Camps: Coastal Expedition, Paddle Camp, Arts & Adventure, Animal Farm (Zoo) and Carnival, Scuba Camp, and others.
- 443-518-7671
- Ages 7 – 13
- A summer recreation program for children with severe emotional and behavioral disorders. The campers come with a variety of difficulties/diagnoses ranging from poor peer and family relations, ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, high-functioning autism, oppositional defiant disorder, and problems with expressing feelings and coping appropriately.
- Columbia, MD
- 570-253-4381
- Ages 8-21
- Travel and Weekender programs provide an opportunity for kids and teens that have significant social learning and executive function deficits. Sleep-away camp features swimming, climbing, arts, theater, and athletics.
- Pocono Mountains, PA
- 215-671-6944
- Ages 7 – 17
- Camp Sequoia is a supportive overnight camp for young men ages 7-17 and young women ages 10-16, focusing on the unique needs of kids with ADHD and those working on social or life development skills.
- 202-965-6600
- Summer program for students with learning disabilities and/or ADHD in grades 1-12 and special sessions in Speech and Language and Occupational Therapy for preschool to 12th grade, designed to help students understand their needs, evaluate their weaknesses, build confidence, and develop techniques for overcoming learning challenges.
- Washington DC
- 1-800-697-6313
- Ages 6 – 22
- Traditional residential adventure camp for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and similar neurodevelopmental disorders. Different camping experiences are designed to build confidence, problem-solve, and gain responsibility.
- Zirconia, North Carolina
- Grades Kindergarten – rising 9th grade.
- Offers activities designed to foster friendships, self-awareness, exploration, and social success. Many students at Camp Aristotle experience challenges associated with High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, receptive/expressive/pragmatic language challenges, and ADHD. Students at Camp Aristotle may have trouble with peer relationships and/or impulse control. Sometimes, they have previously experienced unhappiness and frustration in camps where their need for tools such as sensory breaks was not respected or understood. Our teachers and staff are specially trained to understand these needs to provide all campers with a fulfilling and bully-free camp experience.
- Baltimore, MD/Fairfax, VA/Silver Spring, MD
- 617-882-2267
- A camp and college readiness program for high school teens with Asperger’s, or similar ASD (Autism) profile, and ADD/ADHD. Participants practice post-secondary independent living skills, experience adventure, and develop life-long friendships, all while preparing for their transition to college and beyond.
- 540-471-1659
- Ages 6 – Adult
- A summer day camp program for individuals with special needs and at-risk youth. Offers a place for children to improve social skills, stay active and have fun. The camp is offered for families at no cost so that children with medical, physical, behavioral, and other special needs, as well as at-risk youth, can enjoy the excitement of the camp, and build lifetime friendships with other children with a similar background.
- Waynesboro, VA
Camp Pocono Trails for kids, teens, and young adults.
- 1-800-365-0556
- Camp Pocono Trails helps teens struggling with issues like impulse control, social Issues, anxiety, technology addiction, trauma, video game addiction, autism spectrum, low self-esteem, school refusal, social isolation, family conflict, addictive behaviors, poor communication skills, ADHD, depression. Camp Pocono Trails helps campers with one or more of the following focus areas: weight loss& weight management, fitness& sports skills, Nutrition& culinary skills, video game habit reversal, social media overuse/misuse, self-esteem building, social skills building, and self-regulation skills. Reedrs, PA
Deaf Camps/American Sign Language Camp
- Ages 7 – 19
- Deaf Camp is designed for Deaf and hard-of-hearing campers who communicate primarily in American Sign Language. American Sign Language Camp features ASL immersion opportunities for signers at any level, from beginning to fluent signers. Campers of all religious backgrounds are welcome and may be exempted from religious education and chapel upon request.
- Knoxville, NC
Gallaudet University Summer & Enrichment Programs
- 202-651-5000
- Ages 10 -19
- Summer Youth Camps are designed for middle and high school students up to the age of 19. Our programs provide exciting summer learning and experiential opportunities against the backdrop of a world-class bilingual environment just minutes away from the U.S. Capitol.
- Washington, D.C.
- 434-248-5444
- Ages 9-18
- This day camp will offer Deaf/HH children the environment with staff and programming to augment healthy, satisfying socialization experiences through various activities swimming, fishing, canoeing, archery, nature studies, and craft. Audio equipment provided by the VA Dept of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
- An intensive educational four-week summer program for deaf and hard of hearing high school sophomores and juniors. Campers are referred to as Leaders throughout the program. The camp provides leaders the ability to develop their scholarship, leadership, and citizenship (SLC) qualities outdoors. Leaders experience self-discovery, learn about self-identity, confidence, and self-esteem and understand many things about themselves.
- Silver Spring, MD
- 540-226-9980 (Text only)
- Video Phone: 540-645-5029 (Video Phone)
- Video Phone: 808-376-2226(Video Phone)
- Ages 3-18
- We welcome campers who are Deaf or hard of hearing, ages 3 years old to 18 years old. Hearing siblings are also welcome. Camp hours are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and children will enjoy activities such as crafts, sports, games, fishing, and swimming. Our camp is held each year for one week. Here we swim, hike, fish, and have a variety of activities throughout the day related to our theme for the week. Many of our counselors are former campers that have graduated high school or ASL students from the local colleges. We offer a counselor-in-training program for teens to develop their leadership skills.
- Signs of Fun also aims to assist our parents by giving them options for communication with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Parents are encouraged to sign up for the ASL Class which happens while their children are at camp!
- Ages 7 – 13
- Provides day and overnight camp experiences for deaf/hard of hearing children, and children of deaf adults. Promoting communication access and positive interaction between various groups within the diverse, multicultural, and multilingual deaf community
- Nanjemoy, MD.
- 301- 870-5858
- Ages 6-16
- A week-long residential camping experience for children ages 6-16 who are diagnosed diabetic type 1, and children that are hearing or visually impaired.
- Nanjemoy, MD 20662
- 443-518-7671
- Ages 7 – 13
- A summer recreation program for children with severe emotional and behavioral disorders. The campers come with a variety of difficulties/diagnoses ranging from poor peer and family relations, ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, high-functioning autism, oppositional defiant disorder, and problems with expressing feelings and coping appropriately.
- Columbia, MD
- 540-471-1659
- Ages 6 – Adult
- A summer day camp program for individuals with special needs and at-risk youth. Offers a place for children to improve social skills, stay active and have fun. The camp is offered for families at no cost so that children with medical, physical, behavioral, and other special needs, as well as at-risk youth, can enjoy the excitement of the camp, and build lifetime friendships with other children with similar backgrounds.
- Waynesboro, VA
Camp Pocono Trails for kids, teens, and young adults.
- 1-800-365-0556
- Camp Pocono Trails helps teens struggling with issues like impulse control, social Issues, anxiety, technology addiction, trauma, video game addiction, autism spectrum, low self-esteem, school refusal, social isolation, family conflict, addictive behaviors, poor communication skills, ADHD, and depression. Additionally, the camp helps children with weight loss & weight management, fitness& sports skills, Nutrition& culinary skills, video game habit reversal, social media overuse/misuse, self-esteem building, social skills building, and self-regulation skills.
Reeders, PA
- 804-377-3430
- Free-of-charge programs that include trust-building activities and age-based support groups that break the emotional isolation grief often brings.
- Richmond, VA
- A free camp experience for children & teens who are grieving the death of someone significant/close. Camp Erin combines traditional camp experiences with grief support activities to provide a weekend of hope and healing.
- Two-day camp for children From Kindergarten through teens dealing with the loss of a loved one. Trained professionals and volunteers help children, and their families explore issues related to grief, walking beside them as they take the steps needed to heal.
- 920-988-8759
- Ages 9 – 14 & 15 – 18 for returning campers.
- Free summer camp and leadership program for girls who have experienced the death of a parent. The camp program encourages fun, engagement in traditional summer camp activities, and community building through shared grief. Our Leaders in Training program offers four years of leadership and skill-building, community engagement, and outdoor adventure for grieving teens. We run programming out of Georgia, West Virginia, and Maine.
- 847-250-0799
- Ages 5-13 and families
- Camp Kangaroo is a bereavement camp experience offered free of charge to children in the community who have suffered the death of a loved one. Participants receive grief education and emotional support combined with fun camp activities.
- 253-736-3821
- Camp Kesem serves children who have lost a parent to cancer, have a parent undergoing cancer treatment, or whose parent is a cancer survivor. The camp focus on creating fun experiences that help these children escape even for a short time the challenges of coping with their parent’s cancer diagnosis. Campers find adventure and creativity, build trust in themselves, and create new friendships.
- 800-662-7119
- Easterseals UCP EMPOWER Summer Camp is an 8-week summer camp program for children living with an Intellectual and/or Developmental Disability and their siblings.
- Assistance is available to all campers, while encouraging independence, improving self -esteem and Social Skills, outdoor activities. Summer camp, weekend respites and family camps are available.
- 800-768-6040
- 804-521-1100
- Camp Rainbow Connection is a week-long respite camp held twice in the summer for individuals with intellectual disabilities ages 16 and older.
- Petersburg, VA 23805
- 301-762-2414
- Grades 2 – 12
- Orton-Gillingham based program endorsed by the International Dyslexia Association in the Washington, DC region. The program provides intensive instruction in reading, writing, spelling, study skills, and handwriting and math.
- Rockville, MD/Northern Virginia
- 202-944-2217
- Grades Preschool – 12
- Summer program for students with learning disabilities and/or ADHD in grades 1-9 and special sessions in Speech and Language and Occupational Therapy for preschool to 12th grade, designed to help students understand their needs, evaluate their weaknesses, build confidence, and develop techniques for overcoming learning challenges.
- Washington, D.C.
- 404-285-0467
- Aerie’s programs provide experiences that integrate and promote the overall individual treatment plan of each camper. Aerie focuses on children, individuals, and families navigating Asperger's, High Functioning Autism, Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Neurobiological Disorders, and other special needs. Camps: Coastal Expedition, Paddle Camp, Arts & Adventure, Animal Farm (Zoo) and Carnival, Scuba Camp, and others.
- 1-866-680-4744
- Grades 3 – 10
- A three-and-a-half week sleep away camp for kids with Asperger’s Syndrome, high-functioning autism, and nonverbal learning disabilities to make friends and grow socially.
- Vermont and Wisconsin
- 434-977-3781
- Camp Holiday Trails (CHT) is a year-round nonprofit camp in a natural setting at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Central VA. They provide Camp experience for children and teens aged age 7-17 with medical needs.
- Virtual and Multiple Locations
- 301-599-0180
- Ages 5-18
- Camp Accomplish serve campers with and without disabilities and chronic health conditions. Campers participate in activities from climbing walls to nature trails to therapeutic riding activities.
- Manjemoy, MD
- 202-476-5142
- Residential camps for children with chronic health conditions to provide children with chronic illnesses the opportunities to meet peers, mentors, and counselors with the same conditions and discover that they are not alone in the world.
- 317-679-1860
- Ages 6 – 18
- Champ camp provides a summer camp experience for children and adolescents with tracheostomies and those who require technological respiratory assistance. Campers fully participate in outdoor summer camp activities including swimming, canoeing, climbing, and zip-lining.
- Greenwood, IN
- 540-471-1659
- Ages 6 – Adult
- A summer day camp program for individuals with special needs and at-risk youth. Offers a place for children to improve social skills, stay active and have fun. The camp is offered for families at no cost so that children with medical, physical, behavioral, and other special needs, as well as at-risk youth, can enjoy the excitement of the camp, and build lifetime friendships with other children with a similar background.
- Waynesboro, VA
- 203-878-6744
- The camp offers a variety of activities including swimming, boating, archery, high ropes courses, firefighter games, and arts & crafts for children aged 8-18. No cost to families. The Children’s Burn Camp mostly has volunteer staff comprised primarily of firefighters from fire departments throughout New England, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Victoria, British Columbia, and also a medical team of professionals from leading Burn Centers in the Northeast, along with adult burn survivors, round out our camp staff.
- Union, CT
- 434-263-6566
- Ages 7-17
- A residential camp summer camp for young burn survivors. It is free for children between 7 and 17 and staffed by firefighters, occupational therapists, nurses, adult burn survivors, and volunteers. Activities at the camp include a team -building ropes, sports, arts and crafts, swimming, Camp Olympics, Archery, fishing, canoeing, horseback riding, campfires, a carnival, the camp dancing, and the end-of-the-week variety show.
- Charlottesville, VA
- 304-559-7351
- Ages 7-16
- A week-long summer camp for children with diabetes. Activities include tubing down the Greenbrier River, canoeing, swimming, archery, biking, and more.
- Anthony, WV
- 202-476-5242
- 202-476-3181
- Camp Heartbeat offers children and teens with heart conditions, ages 7-18, six days and five nights of summer fun, education, and social connections in a safe and supervised environment. In addition to fun, the goal of Camp Heartbeat is to reduce the social isolation that is often associated with heart disorders and increase the knowledge and understanding our campers have about their condition. The camp provides opportunities for the kids to work with professional staff and become better self-advocates and self-managers of their condition.
- 301-870-5858
- Ages 6 – 16
- A week-long residential camping experience for children ages 6-16 who are diagnosed diabetic type 1, and children that are hearing or visually impaired. The camp can also accommodate organizations and businesses seeking to coordinate off-site team-building sessions or retreats.
- Nanjemoy, MD
- Full-summer day camp for children with cancer and their siblings, ages 3 1/2 – 16, who are in active or follow-up treatment for cancer. Unlike most oncology sleep-away camps that are offered for 1-2 weeks each summer, Horizon Day Camp-Metro DC allows children to attend camp as often as they can during the summer and has events throughout the year that allow children to enjoy the activities during the day and to continue their medical treatment and enjoy the comfort and safety of their homes at night.
- 1-888-930-2707
- Strong, nurturing environment for children with cancer and their families through its free camps and getaway weekends, emergency financial assistance, and educational scholarships for young adults who have beaten cancer and now want to move on with their life.
- 443-518-7671
- Ages 7 – 13
- A summer recreation program for children with severe emotional and behavioral disorders. The campers come with a variety of difficulties/diagnoses ranging from poor peer and family relations, ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, high-functioning autism, oppositional defiant disorder, and problems with expressing feelings and coping appropriately.
- Columbia, MD
- 540-471-1659
- Ages 6 – Adult
- A summer day camp program for individuals with special needs and at-risk youth. Offers a place for children to improve social skills, stay active and have fun. The camp is offered for families at no cost so that children with medical, physical, behavioral, and other special needs, as well as at-risk youth, can enjoy the excitement of the camp, and build lifetime friendships with other children with a similar background.
- Waynesboro, VA
- At Solstice East, a holistic approach to therapy (one that simultaneously targets the mind, body, and spirit) helps every girl find the version of herself that she truly wants to be. The girls-only program at Solstice East allows adolescent girls to become comfortable with who they are. Guided by our team, struggling girls can truly overcome their issues and begin forming lasting, genuine changes for the better.
- Offers military kids a free week of summer camp where they connect with other kids, just like them. They combine fun-filled activities and targeted resources that support military kids to improve their well-being, build connections, and equip them to thrive in the face of the challenges and adventures that come with military life. Children of active-duty service members and veterans, from all uniformed services, including the National Guard, Reserve, Space Force, the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration may apply.
- The camp's mission is to transform the lives of children of wounded, ill, and fallen military heroes by providing camps, advocacy, and enrichment programs.
- Ages 13-18
- Residential camps for youth with military connections (active duty, guard, reserve, and retired personnel from any branch), age 13-18, to participate in these high adventure camps!
- A variety of camps will be offered in 2023, from May through mid-August. Host states/sites include Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington. Each camp offers a unique outdoor experience that will allow you to build your leadership, self-confidence, and teamwork skills while engaging with the outdoors. Camps have funding available to assist with transportation costs.
- Military families will find links on this page to register for the camps of their choice, along with local contact information. Camps by location.
- 434-985-2811
- 202-476-3181
- Weeklong overnight summer camp for children and teens ages 7 to 17 years old diagnosed with neurofibromatosis. Camp New Friends offers children and teens with neurofibromatosis (ages 7-17) seven days and six nights of summer fun and social connections. The camps also provide parents with respite.
- St. George, VA 22935
Fairfax Falcons Paralympic Sports
- Paralympic sports program for individuals under the age of 22, who have not graduated from high school and who have an irreversible lower extremity disability, such as: paralysis, amputation, radiological evidence of limb shortening, spina bifida, a spinal cord injury, or cerebral palsy.
- Fairfax, VA 22030
- 540-471-1659
- Ages 6 – Adult
- A summer day camp program for individuals with special needs and at-risk youth. Offers a place for children to improve social skills, stay active and have fun. The camp is offered for families at no cost so that children with medical, physical, behavioral, and other special needs, as well as at-risk youth, can enjoy the excitement of the camp, and build lifetime friendships with other children with a similar background.
- Waynesboro, VA
- 804-665-1272
- 804-358-1874
- Ages 6-Adult
- Provides traditional day and overnight summer camp activities for individuals with disabilities to participate in diverse activities with the help of trained staff.
- Richmond, VA
- 571-295-5116
- Support children and young adults with a variety of social and communicative needs, including Autism, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and sensory sensitivities. planning activities and implementing strategies related to social and communication skills, in addition to working on sensory, speech, fine, and gross motor skills as often as possible.
- Falls Church, VA
- 240-447-8013
- Grades Preschool – 8
- Therapeutic interventions (sensory, play, music, social and behavioral) throughout all the daily activities. Programs are intended for children who have mild to moderate deficits in speech, language, play, sensory, and socialization. Children participate in both small and whole-group activities to ensure that their individual goals are met. Speech-language pathologists and special educators provide services in all our classrooms.
- Rockville, MD
- A Place to Be creates community, belonging, and hope through music therapy, performance, and the expressive arts. Their summer camp program is clinically based, run by therapists, and is designed with opportunities for self-expression, addressing resiliency, flexibility, and connection to others. Each summer they custom-create summer camps. From a “Pop Rocks” camp, where individuals can create songs and perform as a band, to nature meets art camps, where the camper has experience with nature as they create. Even film camps are geared toward the camper creating their own story and working with others to explore this innovative art form.
- Middleburg, VA
- 1-866-680-4744
- Grades 3 – 10
- A three-and-a-half week sleep away camp for kids with Asperger’s Syndrome, high-functioning autism, and nonverbal learning disabilities to make friends and grow socially.
- Vermont and Wisconsin
- 610-660-0300
- Grades 11 – 12
- Camp and travel program that prepares teens for life after high school, with an emphasis on social skills, independent living skills, and community service. Designed for teens with Asperger’s Syndrome, high-functioning autism, and nonverbal learning disabilities.
- Appleton, WI
- Grades Kindergarten – 12
- Camp for students who have trouble with peer relationships and/or impulse control. Weekly themes are chosen with input from students and activities designed to foster friendships, self-awareness, exploration, and social success.
- Baltimore, MD/Fairfax, VA/Silver Spring, MD
- 434-589-8950
- Summer program for children who need to work on social, communication, and friendship skills. Camps include traditional camping experiences and another camp is for equestrians. Additionally, they also have a family camp.
- Palmyra, VA
- 215-671-6944
- Ages 7 – 19
- Camp Sequoia is an overnight summer camp for boys ages 7-17 and girls ages 10-16 to experience social skills success in a dynamic and nurturing environment. Camp Sequoia is designed for children and teenagers with ADHD and other similar diagnoses who do not need the level of support offered at special needs overnight camps yet need a different experience than a traditional overnight camp can offer.
- 570-253-4381
- Ages 8 – 21
- Travel and Weekender programs provide an opportunity for kids and teens that have significant social learning and executive function deficits. Sleep-away camp features swimming, climbing, arts, theater, and athletics.
- Pocono Mountains, PA
Social Beginnings Social Skills for Kids
- 855-866-9893
- Campers participate in both recreational activities and structured social skills lessons throughout the day. Educational opportunities extend from fun lessons, and in-house field trips, to outdoor games and adventures.
- Columbia, MD
- 703-941-7757
- Ages 5 – 9
- A therapeutic camp run by an occupational therapist and a speech and language pathologist targets the development of social skills, flexible thinking, self-regulation, motor skills, and building friendships.
- Multiple locations in Fairfax, VA
- 540-471-1659
- Ages 6 – Adult
- A summer day camp program for individuals with special needs and at-risk youth. Offers a place for children to improve social skills, stay active and have fun. The camp is offered for families at no cost so that children with medical, physical, behavioral, and other special needs, as well as at-risk youth, can enjoy the excitement of the camp, and build lifetime friendships with other children with a similar background.
- Waynesboro, VA
Camp Pocono Trails for kids, teens, and young adults.
- 1-800-365-0556
- Camp Pocono Trails helps teens struggling with issues like impulse control, social Issues, anxiety, technology addiction, trauma, video game addiction, autism spectrum, low self-esteem, school refusal, social isolation, family conflict, addictive behaviors, poor communication skills, ADHD, and depression. Additionally, the camp helps children with weight loss & weight management, fitness& sports skills, Nutrition& culinary skills, video game habit reversal, social media overuse/misuse, self-esteem building, social skills building, and self-regulation skills.
- Readers, PA
Summer Time Social Skills Camp
- 703-246-7120
- Social skills help children improve their social behavior and interactions with others. In this week-long camp, children will learn cooperation, turn taking and engage in activities that will promote conversation skills.
- Ages 7-10 with an active IEP.
- Joseph Willard Health Center June 26th–30th, 2023 8:00 am–12:00 pm
- The Speech and Hearing team will host a summer reading program for school-age children (5 – 21 years), who have a diagnosis of dyslexia to help develop language and reading skills. To participate, you must register by April 15, 2024.
- 703-246-7120
Email: [email protected]
- 240-447-8013
- Grades Preschool – 8
- Therapeutic summer program offering daily instruction and focus in the areas of receptive and expressive language, social/peer interactions, play, problem-solving, sports, and academic skills. Full-day and half-day classes are available.
- Rockville, MD
- 703-594-7668
- Ages 4 – 17
- A summer enrichment program that uses their collaborative approach to address articulation, expressive language, receptive language, executive functioning, social skills, and literacy.
- Alexandria, VA
- 703-533-8819
- Ages 4 – 10
- A therapeutic summer camp run by speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists. A daily schedule and theme for each day include time for free play and socialization.
- Arlington, VA
Treatment and Learning Center Summer Programs
- 301-738-9691
- TLC’s Speech-Language and Occupational Therapy Summer Camps serve young children with speech-language and occupational therapy needs ages 2.5 to 7. Our Learning Enrichment program through the Katherine Thomas School serves students with language, learning, and sensory-motor disabilities and/or high-functioning autism K-8 in the lower/middle school and grades 9-12 in the high school.
- Summer Programs staff are certified special education teachers, licensed speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and teacher assistants.
- 202-944-2217
- Grades Preschool – 12
- Summer program for students with learning disabilities and/or ADHD in grades 1-9 and special sessions in Speech and Language and Occupational Therapy for preschool to 12th grade, designed to help students understand their needs, evaluate their weaknesses, build confidence, and develop techniques for overcoming learning challenges. Washington, D.C
- A therapeutic camp run by an occupational therapist and a speech and language pathologist targets the development of social skills, flexible thinking, self-regulation, motor skills, and building friendships.
- Fairfax, VA
- Speech and Hearing Clinic
- All Ages
- Provides assessment and therapy services for all ages by licensed Speech-Language Pathologists. Summer program includes 6 weeks of 1:1 summer speech therapy for school aged children based on established Individual Education Plan (IEP). Group therapy sessions may be available based on child and therapist availability. Accept Medicaid and have income based sliding fee scale for eligible Fairfax County residents.
- Fairfax, Reston, and Mount Vernon.
- 703-246-7120
- Email: [email protected]
- Ages 5 – 17
- Camp Abilities Delaware is an overnight educational sports camp that introduces children who are blind or have low vision to a variety of sports, including cross-country running, field events, golf, 5-a-side, soccer, team building, lacrosse, beep kickball, rugby, football, boating, and dance. The purpose of the camp is to empower children to be physically active, improve their overall health and wellness, encourage them to make food choices that support an active lifestyle and develop their confidence and self-esteem through sports and physical activity. Children receive one-on-one instruction during all physical activities and events.
- Felton, DE
- Ages 7 – 17
- Educational overnight camp for children who are blind or have low vision. Empowers children to be physically active, improve their overall health and wellness, encourages them to make food choices that support an active lifestyle, and develops their confidence and self-esteem through sport and physical activity.
- West Chester, PA
- 828-667-9778 x5802
- Grades 7-10
- An overnight water sports camp for teens who are blind or visually impaired. Activities include swimming, rowing, kayaking, fishing, and splashing. No cost to families.
The Maryland School for The Blind
- 410-444-5000
- Grades 1st-12th
- MSB offers short course programs to students (1st-12th grade) during the summer to promote skill development in the nine areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum. Their short courses are taught by highly trained and highly qualified MSB staff and staff from county vision programs around the state and other organizations that provide services to the blind and low-vision population. Some of these programs may include a small charge. Short courses can be provided on the MSB campus or regionally.
- 571- 549-1270
- Ages3-7
- A variety of camps that enhance language skills, fine and gross motor skills, and social and emotional development through creative play. Each weekly session has a different theme.
- Alexandria, VA
- Ages 2-5
- Offers a variety of fun and educational activities at various locations.
- Glen Allen, VA
- Richmond, VA
- Super Quest camps
- Ages 3-8
- Each week revolves around an interactive learning theme with different, creative lesson plans that will keep your child engaged.
- 202-577-2000
- Ages 3-15
- Campers will grow self-awareness and confidence while learning to play and work well with others. participate in various activities, make new friends, and explore their interests in deliberately small groups.
- Washington, DC
Headfirst Summer Camp
https://www.headfirstcamps.com/program-descriptions/
Located in 2 locations in DC (Cathedral Heights and Palisades), the Junior Day camp offers STEM,
swim lessons, and crafts for Rising Pre-K and younger.
