This is a list where parents can share personal recommendations and reviews for the best special needs summer camps around the Chicago area.
If you're looking for the right camps for autism, ADHD or other developmental, learning or physical special needs, we hope you'll find the perfect fit for your family on this list. These favorites offer fun for kids with all abilities while building independence, social skills and friendships.
Do you have experience with any special needs camps near Chicago and the suburbs? Please share your reviews below to help fellow parents!
Chicago Children's Theatre Camp Red Kite
Camp Red Kite is a summer theatre camp tailored specifically to the unique interests and needs of children on the autism spectrum. The program is led by a team of artists, and special education teachers dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment. Their aim is to encourage self expression, social engagement, creative exploration, and above all, fun! Camp culminates in a final showcase and potluck lunch to share the Camp Red Kite experience with family and friends.
Brookfield Zoo Summer Camp
At Brookfield Zoo, campers will explore animals and the natural world in a fun, engaging, age appropriate setting. Activities include nature hikes, animal observations and encounters, games and crafts. The Zoo is dedicated to making camp the best experience for campers with special needs. They have a dedicated Inclusion Specialist on staff who works with parents and staff to provide a customized and inclusive camp experience for kids.
Center for Enriched Living Summer Camp
The Center for Enriched Living exists so that people with developmental disabilities can be fully included in the community, achieve personal success, and enjoy a good quality of life. CEL’s Summer Camp provides campers, teens and young adults with the opportunity to have their best summer yet! Campers can enjoy building skills, increasing self-confidence and making lifelong friends.
Camp Hope
Camp Hope is a recreational and residential summer camp in the Chicago area for teenagers and young adults who are challenged by developmental disabilities. Camp Hope offers typical summer camp activities such as swimming, dancing, singing, arts and crafts, adaptive sports, cookouts, a magic show, and a carnival. Camp Hope offers one-on-one care for each camper.
Walcamp Camp Agape Program
Walcamp is a Christian camp offering programs for campers of all abilities, including both integrated and dedicated programs for campers with developmental disabilities. They offer both day camp and overnight options.
Camp Odayin
Camp Odayin: Camp Odayin provides life changing camp experiences to children with heart disease and their families.
Primary photo: Janko Ferlič on Unsplash
Upparent collects community-submitted recommendations and reviews, and any ideas that are shared reflect the opinions of individual contributors.
