8 Special Needs Summer Camps Near Philadelphia

Hope Springs Equestrian Therapy is a non-profit organization providing therapeutic horseback riding to children and adults with disabilities such as Autism, visual and hearing impairments, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and developmental challenges. They offer Summer Camps for students to bond with their therapeutic partner--their horse. They will be able to ride, groom, tack and participate in special activities to create new friendships, build confidence and self-esteem. Campers also take part in arts and crafts while strengthening life skills.

VFES Day & Overnight Camps are held at the area's premier Camp Kweebec, a 200-acre property, and are designed for youth and young adults with special needs such as Autism, developmental disabilities, speech disorders and social challenges. The camps encompass traditional activities such as sports, arts and crafts, swimming, fishing, cooking, nature education and more. The offer small group instruction, daily programming, on-site behavior support and experienced staff.

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.

The Social Enrichment Center, a facility designed to meet the needs of special young students in the community, offers Summer Camp that focuses on social skills, behavior management and academics for students with special needs. The campers will experience group activities, games, math and literary concepts, interactive play and sensory-based activities. The program also offers specialty enrichment services such as reading, tutoring, occupational therapy, back to school readiness and speech support.

Hill Top Prep School serves students with disabilities and challenges such as autism and learning differences through a rich, individualized curriculum. Hill Top Summer Adventures offers traditional camp features such as swimming, STEM activities, athletic programs, cooking, outdoor programs and field trips to enhance and enlighten the students through education, social interaction and fun experiences.

Variety enriches the lives of children and young adults with disabilities through educational and social programs throughout the Delaware Valley. They offer Day Camp to encourage independence and self confidence through activities such as sports, arts and crafts, music, computers, nature and more. The Overnight Camp Program features sports and traditional activities to foster social and daily living skills. The Extended School Year (ESY) Program offers therapy, social and recreation programs.

JCC Camps at Medford offers Open Hearts/Open Doors, an inclusionary day camp for campers with disabilities. Accommodations are available to ensure campers can fully participate alongside their like-aged peers; most campers receive one-on-one assistance from a trained advocate.

The Inclusion Program at Liberty Lake Day Camp ensures that special needs campers enjoy summer day camp alongside their same-age/gender peers, enjoying activities that include swimming, boating, laser tag, mini-golf, STEM activities like beekeeping and rocketry, and much more. Daily themes keep every day exciting! Campers requiring one-on-one assistance can acquire an advocate through a variety of ways.