This is a list where parents can share personal recommendations and reviews for the best special needs summer camps around NYC.
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 New York? Please share your reviews below to help fellow parents!
JCC of Staten Island Marvin’s Camp
Marvin's Camp for Children with Special Needs provides an enriching, educational, and fun outlet for children with a variety of challenges. Campers will swim twice daily and receive instruction in sports activities, a challenge course, music, arts and crafts, dancing, outdoor cooking, drum circle, and Israeli culture. Off-site trips can include Sesame Place, Bounce U, and Medieval Times. Door-to-door transportation is available.
Extreme Kids & Crew Summer Camp
Extreme Kids & Crew Camp is for children with developmental disabilities to socialize and play in a small group of up to nine children. Days are filled with adventures and fun mixed with a level of predictability so children feel comfortable. Sessions will focus on art, music, movement, and play in the fully equipped sensory gym.
Get directions
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum All Access Maker Camp
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum offers camp for children with developmental disabilities. Campers explore the museum, engage in design challenges, and meet experts in the field. While experimenting with materials and technology, campers are practicing problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.
Camp Ramapo
Camp Ramapo is a traditional summer camp for kids who are on the autism spectrum or those who have social, emotional, or learning challenges. Activities include swimming, hiking, boating, fishing, and caring for animals under the direction of a one-to-one camper-to-staff ratio. Situated on 250 acres in Rhinebeck, Camp Ramapo helps children live within a group, form friendships, and improve communication.
Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck
Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck is sleepaway camp for physically and mentally challenged children and young adults of Long Island and beyond. Campers of all abilities take part in activities including swimming, hiking, sports, music, camp fires, and more on this 37-acre site situated on the shores of Kaler’s Pond in Center Moriches. Sessions are set up by age group.
Southampton Fresh Air Home
Office SFAH: Southampton Fresh Air Home (SFAH) is a residential center offering summer and off-season programing for youth (8-18) with physical disabilities. Campers who transition out of our program attend life-skill programs that promote independent living.
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.
