INFO AT A GLANCE

Welcome to Camp Idlewild of Florida!

At Camp Idlewild, every camper is accepted and valued for who they are—celebrated for their unique qualities and differences. Our programs are thoughtfully designed with the understanding that each child has their own set of interests, strengths, and challenges.

We’re excited to offer Weekend Camps from September through April, providing campers with unforgettable experiences filled with fun, friendship, and adventure. While campers are having the time of their lives, parents and caregivers can enjoy the gift of respite and peace of mind.

Just so you know, applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and space is limited for each session. Once all spots are filled, registration for that session will close—so be sure to apply early!

SUMMER AND WEEKEND CAMPS
Our camps are open to campers ages 6–17 with varying disabilities and special needs. We also offer sessions for young adults ages 18–30. Camp Idlewild focuses on providing fun, engaging activities that foster independence, meet individual needs, and promote personal growth—all in a supportive and welcoming environment.

WHO DO WE SERVE?
Our programs are designed for children and young adults with the following “super powers”:

• Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger’s Syndrome)

• Sensory Processing Disorders

• Down Syndrome

• Developmental Delays

• ADD/ADHD

At Camp Idlewild, we celebrate each camper’s unique strengths while helping them build confidence, skills, and friendships that last a lifetime.

CAMP FEES

Notes for Parents:

• Registration fees are part of the total camp cost.

• A 1.5% credit card processing fee is automatically applied to all payments.

• Please review our Cancellation and Refund Policy for full details.

SPECIAL DIETS

We welcome families to bring their own prepared meals for campers who require individualized meals that differ from our standard menu.

For campers with special dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free, dairy-free, diabetic), Camp Idlewild Food Service can provide alternative menu options, which require separate preparation and plating. This service incurs an additional fee:

• Weekend Camp Sessions: $25.00

• Summer Camp Sessions: $75.00

CAMPER ELIGIBILITY POLICY

Camp Idlewild (CIW) is committed to serving all qualified individuals with disabilities who meet the essential eligibility requirements outlined below. These criteria help ensure:

• The safety of participating campers

• That campers can receive the maximum benefit from the program they attend

All applications are conditionally accepted. CIW reserves the right to:

• Accept or deny applications

• Defer admission either prior to or during attendance

This may occur if:

• The initial application is found to be inaccurate

• The camper’s health has significantly declined

• The camper does not meet the applicable eligibility criteria

Any deferrals or revocation of admission must be approved by Camp Management.

ESSENTIAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR CAMP ADMISSION

To ensure a safe and positive experience for all campers, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Age or Ability:

   • Be of the appropriate age or ability for the session requested.

2. Disability Requirements:

   • Have a developmental or mental disability. (Specialty sessions, such as sibling camps, may waive this requirement—please contact the camp office.)

   • Wheelchair users should contact the camp office to discuss accessibility.

3. Group Living Skills:

   • Be able to adapt to a group living routine within 24 hours of check-in without disrupting others.

   • Dorm-style sleeping accommodations are provided; no private rooms are available. Campers are expected to respect quiet hours during overnight rest.

   • Follow staff directions and maintain a respectful environment for all campers.

4. Independent Living Skills:

   • Possess basic self-care skills, including self-feeding, showering, dressing, and toileting.

   • Be continent and able to maintain a regular bowel routine.

   • Campers are supported at a 5:1 camper-to-counselor ratio. We are currently unable to provide 1:1 assistance in a group setting. Parents concerned about this ratio should contact us to discuss possible accommodations.

5. Behavioral Requirements:

   • Must not engage in abusive behavior toward self or others, including hitting, biting, scratching, spitting, kicking, excessive swearing or yelling, verbal degradation, inappropriate touching, or other harmful behaviors.

6. Medical Requirements:

   • Cannot have a medical condition that poses a substantial risk of complications or requires specialized medical treatment, such as intravenous infusions, tube feeding, or communicable diseases.

   • Must be able to eat and drink adequately for nutritional support.

   • Must be willing to take personal medications under the supervision of camp medical personnel.

CAMP PROGRAM & ACTIVITIES

Each camp session at Camp Idlewild has a unique theme and carefully planned activities designed to meet the needs of all campers, including those with physical, emotional, or developmental challenges. By maintaining a low camper-to-staff ratio, our counselors can focus on each camper’s strengths, interests, and potential.

Activities include, but are not limited to:

• Arts & Crafts

• Swimming & Canoeing

• Fishing & Hiking

• Yoga & Drum Circles

• Talent Shows & Performances

• Nature Walks & Gardening

• Cooking & Campfire Experiences

• Sports, Games, and Dances

• Drama, Skits, and much more!

At Camp Idlewild, we are committed to inclusion, fun, and personal growth, ensuring every camper has the opportunity to participate and thrive.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

If this is your first time visiting our registration site, please start by creating a new account under the Sign-Up section.

If you are a returning parent or caregiver, you can sign in using your existing account.

For more information about Camp Idlewild and our programs, please visit: www.campidlewildofflorida.com