Building friendships, personal growth, learning, and making memories are just some of the benefits of attending summer camp. However, we know that finding summer camps where our families can experience these benefits can be challenging.
Earlier this fall, we (the DSAGC) began talking to local families about their camp experiences. Some families shared wonderful experiences while others shared challenges. Next, we met with local camps to learn about their struggles and strengths. Along the way we learned Hamilton County Development Disabilities Services also desired to help summer camps be accessible for all campers. Through our connections, we were invited to present at the ACA (American Camp Association) southwest cluster. Here, we had the opportunity to share information about campers with Down syndrome and our initial plan to provide support. We’ve created a more detailed camper information form for families to share with camps, a Down syndrome resource binder for camps to have on hand, as well as a staff training video that can be shared with summer camp employees.
We know outreach efforts take time, so we hope to reach more camps each year! In the future, we anticipate hearing more success stories where all campers experience growth and the magic of summer camp. Please take a look at some of the resources we’ve complied and reach out if you have any questions.
You can use this tool to share information about your camper's preferred communication, challenges, needs, strengths, and more. Download the Form
As you begin planning the programming and activities that will make your summer camp successful, we invite you to consider disability inclusion as a top priority. Learn more
CAMP RESOURCES: Find tips and advice to help summer camp staff make their camps accessible and inclusive places for young campers of all abilities. View Resources
Shared from Hamilton County DDS
For children with developmental disabilities, financial support to attend camp may be available. Learn more about Family Support Services and Waiver Services. Learn more
We've collected detailed information about specific camps such as camper requirements, staffing ratios, staff training, safety/security, parent communication, and more!
Gorman Heritage Farm (day camp)
Evendale, Ohio
https://www.gormanfarm.org/summer-day-camp/
Additional Information
Mayerson JCC of Cincinnati (day camp)
Amberly, Ohio
https://mayersonjcc.org/programs/camp-at-the-j/
Additional Information
Skyhawks Sports Camps
numerous locations around the tristate
https://www.skyhawks.com/
Additional Information
Stepping Stones (day and overnight camp)
Batavia and Cincinnati, Ohio
Jeannie Ludwig- (513) 965-5108
https://steppingstonesohio.org/stepping-stones-summer/
Additional Information
YMCA Camp Campbell Gard (overnight camp with day camp/hybrid option available in program for campers with developmental disabilities)
Hamilton, Ohio
https://www.ccgymca.org/
Additional Information
Criteria of Service
Application for Campers with Developmental Disabilities
YMCA Camp Creekwood (day camp)
Blue Ash, Ohio
https://myy.org/programs/camp/day-camp/
Additional Information
YMCA Camp Ernst (day and overnight camp)
Burlington, Kentucky
https://myycamp.org/
Additional Information
YMCA Camp Outback (day camp)
Burlington, Kentucky
https://myy.org/programs/camp/day-camp/
Additional Information
YMCA Camp Pride (day camp)
Cincinnati, Ohio - M.E. Lyons
https://myy.org/programs/camp/day-camp/
Additional Information
YMCA Thunder Rock (day camp)
Cincinnati, Ohio (Gamble-Nippert)
https://myy.org/programs/camp/day-camp/
Additional Information
YMCA Timber Trail (day camp)
Batavia, Ohio
https://myy.org/programs/camp/day-camp/
Additional Information
The Buddy Walk is the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati’s largest fundraising and awareness event of the year, attracting over 13,000 participants and raising half of our annual revenue. Over 380 teams, from across the 12 counties we serve, come together to celebrate our loved ones with Down syndrome. Learn more
