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Many of our Maine Special Needs Camps offer Winter & Winter Break Special Needs Programs, Activities, Workshops & Classes starting in December, 2024.
Be sure to check the "Year-Round Programs and Other Camp Info" headings of each camp listing for specifics, or give any Special Needs Camp you're interested in a call to check on Winter & Winter Break dates, times and availability.
Many of our Special Needs Camps will be hosting Winter & Winter Break Reunions for their previous campers, and Winter & Winter Break Open Houses for interested new campers and families. Each camp is different, and some offer activities for the entire family.
Contact the camp(s) directly to see if there are any Camp Reunion or Open House Plans for December, 2024.
Looking for a Great Maine Special Needs Day Camp? Look at each camp's TYPE OF CAMP description. Many of our Best Maine Day Special Needs Camps also list their exact hours, and if they offer before and after camp activities.
Many of our Best Maine Summer Special Needs Camps also offer Year Round Special Needs Camp Programs, Classes, and Activities. You should contact the camps you are interested in to see if they offer Fall, Winter and/or Spring Special Needs Programs, too.
Searching for Maine Special Needs Camp Jobs? Many of our Best Special Needs Camps are now listing their 2025 Winter & Winter Break Camp Jobs, too. Look for the heading "Summer Camp Jobs" in each camp listing. You can also check any camp's website for their "Work at Camp" or "Winter & Winter Break Employment Opportunities" pages.
View ALL ME Camps with Winter & Winter Break Work & Leadership Training Opportunities.
Visit Our Maine Golf and Tennis Academy Camp Kennebec Website
207-465-3226
fun[AT]golfcamp.com
35 Golf Academy Drive
Belgrade, Maine 04917
CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our Maine Golf and Tennis Academy Camp Kennebec Video
CAMPER AGES: 8= 17
TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Day Camp.
CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: Handicap accessible
CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Dance, Theater, Musical Theater, Music/Band, Fine Arts/Crafts, Video/Filmmaking/Photography, Basketball, Weightloss, Soccer, Golf, Swimming, Tennis, Waterfront/Aquatics, Sailing, Team Sports, Math, Science, Adventure, and more. Junior Golf, Junior Tennis, Waterfront, Tournaments, Sports, & Leadership.
CAMP LOCATION: 1 hours north of Portland, Maine in the Belgrade Lakes Region of Maine and in the heart of Great Golf Course, Rivers, Tennis Tournaments and Golf Tournaments
▌Read More about Maine Golf and Tennis Academy Camp Kennebec
CAMP FACILITIES: 30 cabins for boys and girls, complete and uniquely designed junior golf and tennis training facility with 6 holes, 9 courts, three different surfaces, 300 yard covered driving range, full waterfront, pontoon boat, ski boats, canoes, kayaks, waterskiing, basketball, soccer, theater, music etc.
CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Golf, Tennis and Camp. The best of both worlds. Certified PGA and USGA Recognized facility, LPGA Foundation Recognized as "one of the countries top Junior Golf Program, Sports Illustrated names us BEST Golf and BEST Tennis Camp in America.
CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Leadership program.
CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Partial Scholarships available
FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Family camp and handicap accessible
OTHER CAMP INFO: You Will Love What We Do Here and You Will Improve - Guaranteed.
CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please see website for details, at Our Camp Website Link: golfcamp.com
Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Maine Golf and Tennis Academy Camp Kennebec
Please note that our list of 2024 Maine Special Needs Camps also includes information on Maine Special Needs Camp Scholarships, Financial Aid, and other 'Campership' or Financial Assistance. Look within each camp's description for the CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE heading.
Visit Our Camp Wego Website
352-445-2044
352-249-6783
info[AT]campwego.com
Florida Locations
OTHER CAMP LOCATIONS:
Florida, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
CAMPER AGES: 14-65
TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Travel Tours Camp
CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.
BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Camp Wego offers high-quality tours for teen and adults with special needs year around. Our travel programs are unforgettable adventures. We are not your ordinary travel Camp! On our exciting, supervised educational travel programs, individuals learn new skills, make lifelong friends and explore extraordinary cultures in United States and abroad.
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: Camp Wego is a Travel camp serving teens and adult with special needs ages 14-65. We are a small travel special needs camp that travel in the United States and abroad. We are able to provide low staffing ratios, 1 to 4. (1:1 if needed) We have highly credentialed and experienced staff so each individuals needs are met. We add new and innovative travel and activities each year.
Our travel is designed to enhance social, friendship, culture, and other vital life skills that promote independence. Camp Wego helps travelers make new friends while traveling in a safe, fun and educational environment.
We offer high-quality supervised tours for teens and adults with special needs year around. Our travel programs are specialized for individuals with Developmental Disabilities, Autism, Learning Disabilities, ADHD and Asperger's syndrome.
Individuals must be ambulatory and be able to take care of personal hygiene needs.
CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Swimming, Team Sports, Adventure, Travel, and more. Travel, Travel Abroad, Cruises, Camping, Sightseeing, Theme Parks, Culture
CAMP LOCATION: Our year-round office is located in Florida. Our trips depart and operate from many of domestic and international locations. Our staff training is held every year in Florida.
CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Camp Wego is fully committed to developing life and social skills for individuals with special needs ages 14 and up. We believe that our travel trips are a great way to experience independence, improve social skills, and increase self-esteem in a secure, safe and also an exciting environment. Our primary goals are to help travelers build self-esteem, develop better social skills and self-expression, make and maintain friendships, improve fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and sensory integration.
YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Camp Wego travels year around.
OTHER CAMP INFO: No Financial aid offered.
CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Most trips cost $1000 and up
For complete info visit Our Camp Website Link: www.campwego.com
Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Camp Wego
Some Maine Special Needs Camps offer BOTH Day and Overnight Camp options. Be sure to check each camp's description under "TYPE OF CAMP" for complete information, and exact hours.
Some Maine Special Needs Day Camps also offer Extended Camp Hours for Early Camper Drop-Off and Pick Up. If you need these services, you should contact the camp to confirm availability.
Visit Our Maine Arts Camp Website
561-865-4330
maineartscamprick[AT]gmail.com
4000 Mayflower Hill Drive
Colby College
Waterville, Maine 04901
WINTER (OFF-SEASON) OFFICE ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 812076
Boca Raton, FL 33481
CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our Maine Arts Camp Video
CAMPER AGES: 9-16
TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway.
CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: We are a small, inclusive camp community of 75-100 campers and 30-35 staff so there is lots of personal attention, given by teachers and experienced professionals.
CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Dance, Theater, Musical Theater, Music/Band, Fine Arts/Crafts, Video/Filmmaking/Photography, Tennis, Science, Technology, Academics, and more. Culinary Arts, Robotics & Rocketry, Creative Writing, Individual Sports (not Team Sports), Film Photography, Film Making.
CAMP LOCATION: We are located 1.25 hours north of Portland, Maine and 3 hours from Boston.
▌Read More about Maine Arts Camp
CAMP FACILITIES: Maine Arts Camp is located on the campus of Colby College, an arts based liberal arts college in Waterville, Maine. Campers live in college dorms. The college has studios for the arts, film making, film photography, & dance, an on campus theater, a full commercial kitchen for our culinary program, tennis courts, a lake for kayaking/canoeing and more!
CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Maine Arts Camp is a small camp community, geared toward creative kids and teens. Our camp is an accepting and inclusive place where we discourage any type of cliques & bullying. Campers make friends with like-minded campers, have fun with typical camp evening activities, camp songs and camp fires, while receiving high level instruction from experienced teachers and professionals in their fields. Whether campers like the visual arts, performing arts, culinary arts, film making, film photography or just are looking for a non-competitive and accepting camp community, Maine Arts Camp is a place where they can fit in. With no team sports, Color War or any type of competition, campers can grow & gain independence in a community that meets their needs.
CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: For returning 16 year old campers, we have a Senior Camper program.
OTHER CAMP INFO: We emphasize process over product, so the individual needs of each camper come before trying to put on an intricate show. With professional instruction, campers can learn skills & try new activities without the pressure they find elsewhere in life.
CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Rates & dates can be found at Our Camp Website Link: www.maineartscamp.com
We offer two 2 week sessions. Each 2 week session has a beginning and an end. Campers can attend anywhere from 2-4 weeks, with camp running during the month of July.
Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Maine Arts Camp
Visit Our Computer Kids Club Website
302-438-1318
computerkidsclub[AT]aol.com
Delaware
P.O. Box 246
Bear, Delaware 19701
CAMPER AGES: Ages 5-12
TYPE OF CAMP: Day Camp. Online. M-F 8:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m. OR 12:45-4:00 p.m.
CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.
BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: HALF-DAY Computer Camp in Delaware for Ages 5-12. Students use computer arts to design a POKEMON or UNICORN city and a RUBIK's cube! TYPING, CODING with MINECRAFT, MOANA, STARWARS & More. Engineering & Math activities. Build a Rover & Rocketship and learn the GOOGLE programs.
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: Special Needs are welcome.
CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Video/Filmmaking/Photography, Computers, Math, Science, Technology, Academics, and more.
CAMP LOCATION: Camps will be held at All Saints Catholic School, 907 New Road, Wilmington, DE or Newark, Delaware location which is pending.
▌Read More about Computer Kids Club
CAMP FACILITIES: The camps will be held in New Castle County schools in their computer lab.
YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: This program can also be delivered through our TUTORING service by appointment during the summer.
CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
$235.00 for Monday-Friday Camp
Choose the A.M. OR P.M. camp for this fee
SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Seeking part-time technology coaches to assist with the summer camp hours.Â
Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Computer Kids Club
Visit Our Ignite Learning Academy Virtual Summer Camp Website
480-660-6474
info[AT]ignitelearningacademy.com
Virtual - Online
CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our Ignite Learning Academy Virtual Summer Camp Video
CAMPER AGES: 3-17, depending on camp
TYPE OF CAMP: Online. M-Th, 2 hours/day
CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.
BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Summer camps are a great way to have fun, socialize, create, and explore! With new themes each week, there's sure to be a camp that excites your child! Weekly camp themes include cooking, art, LEGO, science, wizards & magic, around the world, coding, and many more! All camps take place via Zoom and one registration covers all children in the same household!
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: Children with special needs are welcome to attend!
CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Fine Arts/Crafts, Computers, Math, Science, Technology, and more. See Specialty Camp Info Below
▌Read More about Ignite Learning Academy Virtual Summer Camp
CAMP PROGRAM INFO: All camps are run by Ignite Learning Academy, a fully accredited online private school serving students in preschool through grade 12. Camp leaders include faculty, administration, and external experts in the areas they will be teaching.
Around the World Camp
Art Camp: Arts & Crafts with Found Objects
Art Camp: Drawing
Art Camp: Painting
Cooking Camp
DIY/Pinterest Camp
Hawaiian Hullabaloo Camp
JavaScript Coding Camp
Leading Ladies Camp
LEGO Camp
Mad Science Camp
Outdoor Explorers Camp
Scratch Coding Camp
Wizards & Magic Camp
Storytime & Craft Camp
CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.ignitelearningacademy.com to view the dates associated with each individual camp.
Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Ignite Learning Academy Virtual Summer Camp
Visit Our JCC Camp Kingswood Website
Summer - 207-647-5078
Winter - 617-558-6531
info[AT]jccgb.org
104 Wildwood Road
Bridgton, Maine 04009
WINTER (OFF-SEASON) OFFICE ADDRESS:
Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston
333 Nahanton Street
Newton, MA 02459
CAMPER AGES: Entering grades 3-11
TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway.
CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.
AFFILIATION(S): Jewish. Kingswood campers and staff come from all over the world with different backgrounds and levels of Jewish observance.
BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Kingswood provides campers with an unforgettable, fun summer overnight camp experience. Campers develop independence, gain self-confidence, build individual skills and learn to work as teams, all while nurturing lifelong friendships and strengthening their Jewish identities. Flexible enrollment - 2, 3.5, 5.5 and 7-week sessions available. Campers choose their own electives on a weekly basis.
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: Zohar special needs program is a fully integrated camp experience for campers under the supervision of specially trained staff. Open to boys and girls ages 10-17 with developmental disabilities, high functioning spectrum disorders, and neurological and learning challenges. Counselor to camper ratio is 1:2. A family interview is required.
Zohar special needs vocational program provides Zohar campers ages 17-21 the opportunity to build independent living and work skills in the safe confines of Kingswood. Campers have job shadowing opportunities with supportive coaching along with the continuation of group social dynamics. The goal is to have campers succeed in their areas of interest and develop transferable skills.
CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Dance, Theater, Musical Theater, Music/Band, Fine Arts/Crafts, Video/Filmmaking/Photography, Basketball, Baseball, Soccer, Gymnastics, Swimming, Tennis, Waterfront/Aquatics, Sailing, Team Sports, Adventure, Wilderness/Nature, and more. Adventure Course; High & Low Ropes Courses, Day & Overnight Camping Trips, Fishing, Hiking, & Outdoor Living Skills
CAMP LOCATION: One hundred acres in southern Maine make JCC Camp Kingswood the perfect setting for overnight camp! In this beautiful lakefront environment, Kingswood campers and experienced staff create a fun, positive, and diverse community where Jewish values and exciting activities in sports, outdoor/adventure, water sports and visual and performing arts are the core of the program.
▌Read More about JCC Camp Kingswood
CAMP FACILITIES: Kingswood's modern, well-maintained facilities include:
Sheldon A. Cohen Athletic Complex with rock climbing wall and zip line, high and low ropes courses, tennis and basketball courts, soccer and lacrosse fields, baseball field complete with our own Green Monster (like Fenway Park) and beach volleyball courts. We also have a fully equipped waterfront with water trampoline, water slide, water skiing, wake boarding, fishing and boating as well as an arts and crafts and ceramics center, multi-purpose recreation halls, bunks with restrooms, health and wellness center and newly renovated dining hall with kosher kitchen.
CAMP PROGRAM INFO: JCC Camp Kingswood offers a broad spectrum of activities supplemented by specialty camp offerings that vary year to year. Campers are encouraged to develop interests and to try new activities. The woods in which we live and play together bring special awareness and appreciation of nature into all that we do - including our many long-standing traditions, special activities and events to celebrate them!
Camp is a special place with infinite opportunities to have meaningful positive impact on each other's lives. The magic of camp and the key to a great summer is in hiring quality staff. Our staff are incredibly important to us and we take great pride in the selection and training of each staff member. We look for individuals that will work hard to create a safe and caring environment, while at the same time bringing an incredible amount of energy and enthusiasm to camp.
Our staff is made up of individuals from all over the world. We have coaches, teachers, social workers, outdoor educators, Jewish educators, medical professionals, song leaders, athletes, artists, actors, swimmers, water skiers, and many more specialists. The staff is made up of professionals, parents, graduate students, college students, and recent/soon to be high school graduates.
Leslie Zide, Director
Director Leslie Zide has more than a decade of experience in JCC camping where she previously held the positions of Assistant Director at JCC Kingswood Camp and Assistant Director at JCC Grossman Camp. In addition, Leslie was also the Family Program and Community Coordinator for the JCC in the South Area where she was instrumental in developing innovative family programs and engaging families in Jewish life. Leslie brings energy, enthusiasm and creativity to everything she undertakes. She can't wait to see returning campers, welcome new campers and create an amazing camp experience this summer!
Eric Bloomberg, Caretaker
Eric Bloomberg is responsible for Kingswood's facilities and grounds. Over the past decade, he has overseen many significant projects, including major renovations and new construction, that have enhanced the Kingswood experience. During the summer, Eric assists the theatre staff in building sets and teaches a class in building for older campers.
CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: The Kingswood CIT program prepares campers entering grade 11 to be future counselors.
CIT Trip to Israel is an optional three week experience for Kingswood CITs organized in conjunction with BBYO. This trip takes place during first session and provides a once in a lifetime experience for CITs to connect with the history, people, and natural beauty of Israel. After the trip, CITS return to camp for second session to continue their training.
CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: The JCC, together with Combined Jewish Philanthropies and generous individual and foundation donors, offers some financial assistance for campers on the basis of financial need only. Assistance is awarded on a first come, first served basis. For more information and to have a confidential conversation, please contact the Camp Director at 617-558-6531.
FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Kingswood Family Camp is a fun filled weekend with your family at camp. Includes meals and lodging, a spiritually inclusive family Shabbat experience, and all the activities you can handle: campfires, lake swimming and boating, hikes, and your favorite sports.
CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
The Kingswood summer program is flexible. Families can choose to enroll campers for 2, 3.5, 5.5 or 7 weeks. There is a day/overnight camp option offered in collaboration with JCC Grossman Camp or JCC Kaleidoscope Creative Arts & Science Camp. Transportation to and from camp is available for all sessions.
SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Kingswood is looking to fill additional camp positions including:
Specialists: Arts and Crafts, Drama, Music, Ropes, Sewing, Videography, Lifeguards/Boating and Photography
Special Needs Staff
Bunk Counselors
Administrative Staff -- Unit Heads
Please check Our Camp Website Link: www.kingswood.org for more information.
Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
JCC Camp Kingswood
Visit Our Oceanwood Website
207.934.9655
office[AT]oceanwood.org
17 Royal Street
Ocean Park, Maine 04063
CAMPER AGES: 5-16
TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway. Day Camp.
CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.
AFFILIATION(S): Christian.
BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Oceanwood is located in coastal Southern Maine and offers day camp, overnight camp, family camps, and camps for individuals with disabilities.
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: Junior OceanBay Adventure is designed for youth aged 10-17 and our Woodside, OceanBay, and OceanBay Adventure are designed for adults 18 years and older. Each program is specifically designed to address the physical and emotional needs of our campers and all of our camp activities are modified to ability levels appropriate to each camper. Our trained and licensed medical staff reside on property all summer.
CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Theater, Fine Arts/Crafts, Basketball, Soccer, Horses/Equestrian, Swimming, Waterfront/Aquatics, Volleyball, Team Sports, and more. Disc Golf
Archery
CAMP LOCATION: We are located 20 minutes south of Portland, Maine and 90 minutes north of Boston, Massachusetts.
CAMP FACILITIES: We have year-round cabins, rustic cabins, as well as a year-round accessible dormitory building. We are located in a beach community and have an in ground pool on-site, as well as an archery range, equestrian center, and theater building.
CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: We have a 2 year Leadership Development Training Program for youth entering the 10th or 11th grade. Please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.oceanwood.org to view the application.
CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Scholarships are available upon request.
YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: We host year-round retreats, environmental education programs, and run our Equestrian Program year-round!
SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.oceanwood.org for summer employment opportunities!
Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Oceanwood
Visit Our Taconnet on Great Pond Website
1-800-588-7024
anne[AT]taconnetongreatpond.com
info[AT]taconnetongreatpond.com
Joyce Island
Rome, Maine 04963
WINTER (OFF-SEASON) OFFICE ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 238
Belgrade Lakes, ME 04918
CAMPER AGES: 0-100
TYPE OF CAMP: All inclusive overnight family camp
CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: Taconnet is a family camp on an island on Great Pond, in the Belgrade Lakes region. Families will stay in beautiful 3-4 bedroom cottages on the water all with docks and unmotorized watercraft. All families enjoy American plan dining daily and can choose from a variety of family activities. Wonderful place to unwind and reconnect with your loved ones.
CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Fine Arts/Crafts, Golf, Swimming, Tennis, Waterfront/Aquatics, Sailing, Adventure, and more.
CAMP LOCATION: We are 30-35 minutes from both Augusta and Waterville. Taconnet is located on Joyce Island, on Great Pond, which is part of the Belgrade Lakes region.
▌Read More about Taconnet on Great Pond
CAMP FACILITIES: Taconnet has 15 beautiful family cottages, some with multiple cottages for larges family groups. Each cottage is located on the water and has a dock to enjoy the beauty of Great Pond. Families will enjoy an all-American dining plan at our dining hall. Many activities are available for families including our three Har-true tennis courts, fishing, swimming, yoga, children's craft activities.
CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Taconnet has been operating as a family camp for 140 years. It originated as a retreat for teachers and their families from metropolitan areas looking to escape to city and to reconnect. Taconnet has continued to evolve but remains an escape from the busy world to reconnect with family.
FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Please see our website
OTHER CAMP INFO: Wacky talent show weekly
Children's craft program
Hiking
Tennis
Fishing
Swimming
Sailing
Stand up Paddle Board
Canoeing
Kayaking
Games, puzzles, books
motorize watercraft (rentals available at Marina)
Please see our website for more info.
CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please see our website
Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Taconnet on Great Pond
Visit Our Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan Website
207-619-4772
camp[AT]bangory.org
101 Camp Jordan Way
Ellsworth, Maine 04605
WINTER (OFF-SEASON) OFFICE ADDRESS:
The Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan
Bangor YMCA
17 Second Street
Bangor, ME 04401
CAMPER AGES: 8-19
TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway.
CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.
AFFILIATION(S): The Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan is owned and operated by the Bangor YMCA and adheres to all YMCA best practices. We are also accredit
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: The Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan runs a one-week program for families of children affected by cancer. This week provides a Sleep Away Camp experience for the whole family. For more information please call 07-619-4772 or email mrobshaw[AT]bangory.org.
CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Dance, Theater, Fine Arts/Crafts, Video/Filmmaking/Photography, Basketball, Football, Cheerleading, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Waterfront/Aquatics, Sailing, Team Sports, Adventure, Travel, Wilderness/Nature, and more.
CAMP LOCATION: Maine is synonymous with camping and wilderness, and our Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan is the perfect combination of both. The Wilderness Center sits in the heart of Eastern Maine’s pristine lake district, just 18 miles from Bangor with a world renowned medical facility and an airport with daily flights along the East Coast. Half way between Bangor and Bar Harbor, our Wilderness Center is within reach of five star restaurants, beautiful small town boutiques, Acadia National Park’s breathtaking ocean view hiking, countless rock climbing cliffs, and more.
▌Read More about Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan
CAMP FACILITIES: Our Wilderness Center provides a secluded nature retreat with all the amenities for a comfortable stay. Our 200 acre campus sits along a quarter mile of lakefront. We are the only summer camp on 2,700 acre Branch Lake. The 5,000 square foot King Dining Hall sits in the center of camp. This bright new facility is equipped with a full professional kitchen and can comfortably seat up to 230 people. The Dining Hall overlooks our lakefront grove area along with Triangle Lodge, our historic meeting hall. Our modern infirmary provides all needs for camp health care, as well as heated living quarters and an apartment for seasonal use.
Most guests and campers stay in our fifteen cabins, all of which have electricity and sleep up to sixteen people. Campers utilize our two bathhouses with six toilets and showers in each. With hiking trails, campsites, sports fields, an outdoor chapel, a state of the art ropes course, and over thirty boats, our facility is the perfect location for all groups.
CAMP PROGRAM INFO: The Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan offers three primary summer programs: Sleep Away Camp for boys and girls ages 8-15, Adventure Seekers Trips for boys and girls ages 8-18, and Leaders School for teens in Middle School and High School. All program details can be found in our downloadable program guide at Our Camp Website Link: www.campjordan.org.
SLEEP AWAY CAMP
Sleep Away Camp is the perfect introduction for children ages 8 to 15 into the Wilderness Center’s summer camp programming. Keenly aware of the different stages of youth development, our program provides age appropriate activities to foster self-exploration, challenge, and achievement. Our Sleep Away program serves a highly diverse camper population, giving campers an opportunity to live and connect with children from various countries and cultures. At Sleep Away Camp, children embark on a personal quest, enjoying activities of their choice from water sports, our adventure ropes course, crafts, performing arts, target shooting, field sports, and more.
ADVENTURE SEEKERS
The Adventure Seekers Program is a wilderness expedition program for campers looking for an exciting, elevated camp experience. Expeditions may include mountain biking, rock climbing, backpacking, spelunking, paddling, whitewater rafting, wilderness survival and more. Adventure Seekers will explore the best of the Maine and New Hampshire wildernesses on trips specially designed for different ages and abilities. All trips are led by Wilderness First Responders and Outdoor Specialists. The trips have been developed by Jeremy Robichaud, our Director of Adventure Recreation. He is a Registered Maine Guide, a Wilderness EMT, a Nationally Registered EMT, a Level II Project Adventure Instructor, and an instructor for SOLO Wilderness Medical School. Jeremy is a professional rock climbing guide and instructor, who is licensed by both the American Mountain Guide Association and the Professional Climbing Instructors Association.
LEADERS SCHOOL
Through group problem-solving competitions, intense physical challenges, unique traditions, and guided reflection, Leaders School helps shape teens into leaders. This is a pedal-to-the-metal week of excitement, formulated by experts in the field of experiential learning and group development. Leaders are pushed to their limits, encouraged to “slay their dragons”, and make connections from their Leaders School experience to their everyday lives. Graduates of this program become charged with a greater sense of self-worth, purpose, and obligation to improve the world around them.
Leaders School relies upon a perpetually-changing but time-tested model of outdoor adventure-education to push kids to explore their physical and mental limits, all the while maintaining a fun and supportive atmosphere that emphasizes “Challenge by Choice”. The two one-week programs are divided by age group between middle school and high school, and are primarily run at the Bangor Y’s Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan. At the core of the Leaders programming, however, are its “Challenge Days” expeditions that take campers all over the state. Young leaders can paddle canoes or kayaks along Moosehead Lake and the Penobscot or St. Croix rivers, sea kayak in Casco Bay, mountain bike through Acadia National Park, go rock climbing in Clifton, or hike Mt. Bigelow or Katahdin. Through introspection and experiential learning in a safe but challenging outdoor environment, leaders learn about themselves while gaining an appreciation for Maine’s natural treasures.
While at Leaders School, teens are challenged by Low and High Ropes Course elements to strengthen self image and build team skills. In addition to more standard classes such as archery, riflery and orienteering, leaders can also participate in Traveling Minstrels (music), Teen Talk (discussions about issues that affect youth), and Energy Infusion Theatre (performing arts). Campers build communication skills, develop teamwork, learn the dynamics of a group, discover themselves and shape goals for the future. The Bangor YMCA Leaders School program has graduated more than 4,200 young leaders in its 41 year history. The relationships and skills they build at Leaders School remain a part of their lives forever.
THE BANGOR YMCA WILDERNESS CENTER AT CAMP JORDAN offers so many choices all summer long, and the common thread is that every program will bring incredible growth, skills, friendship, and fun. Set on a 200 acre campus along the shores of Branch Lake in the beautiful Maine wilderness, our Sleep Away Camp, Adventure Seekers, and Leaders School give boys, girls, and teens of all ages and interests a sense of adventure, belonging, and purpose. These programs allow a child to progress and grow each year in our specially designed age appropriate adventures. Our goal is to partner with parents throughout their child’s life.
The Bangor YMCA’s Wilderness Center provides an idyllic group of resources in which to explore opportunities for personal growth and the enhancement of outdoor skills. The bedrock of our philosophy focuses on the value of experiential learning and encourages self-discovery through the wonders of the Maine environment.
The Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan has been fostering friendships, changing lives, and creating leaders for 106 years. We have established traditions and purposeful programming that encourages character building and leadership skills through the core values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility. Everyone is encouraged to take these life lessons home and contribute to their own families and communities.
Our programs are formulated to reflect the appropriate challenges of each stage of child development. As youth grow and gain a sense of comfort within our programs, they are encouraged to try new activities and new programs to gain a sense of challenge and mastery. Often children who begin with our Sleep Away Camp rise through the ranks, challenging themselves physically on Adventure Seekers expeditions as they grow older, moving on to our LIT and CIT programs, and capping each summer as a teenager with the Leaders School experience. Our programs for older teens bridge the gap between finding one’s personal strength and being a responsible member of a home community. Our Wilderness Center’s camper diversity brings this conversation globally and fosters discussions among tomorrow’s leaders from around the world.
The cabin group is the heart of our program, and we have recently made our cabin groups smaller to foster a closer bond between counselors and cabin-mates. Cabins eat together during each meal, participate in cabin challenges together, and spend “embers”, a time of reflection, sharing their day around a candle every night before bed. Veteran campers think of camp as their second home, a place where they feel appreciated, accepted for who they are, and at peace with themselves. It is our goal that every child develops this sense of connection with our community and our program.
ACCREDITATION: We are accredited by the American Camp Association, ensuring that we hold ourselves to the highest industry standards. The camp complies with all regulations of the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.
At the Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan, we pride ourselves on providing a staff that live out the YMCA core values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility. Every staff person receives extensive training, preparing them to provide the best possible physical and emotional environment for your child. All counselors are First Aid and CPR certified, and we employ two live-in health professionals and have an MD on call for reference to ensure that every camper’s medical needs are met at all times. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker visits us regularly to communicate with staff about their campers’ experiences and challenges.
CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: LEADERS SCHOOL
The Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan's Leaders School is one of the most profound leadership development programs in the Northeast.
Through group problem-solving competitions, intense physical challenges, unique traditions, and guided reflection, Leaders School helps shape teens into leaders. This is a pedal-to-the-metal week of excitement, formulated by experts in the field of experiential learning and group development. Leaders are pushed to their limits, encouraged to “slay their dragons”, and make connections from their Leaders School experience to their everyday lives. Graduates of this program become charged with a greater sense of self-worth, purpose, and obligation to improve the world around them.
Leaders School relies upon a perpetually-changing but time-tested model of outdoor adventure-education to push kids to explore their physical and mental limits, all the while maintaining a fun and supportive atmosphere that emphasizes “Challenge by Choice”. The two one-week programs are divided by age group between middle school and high school, and are primarily run at the Bangor Y’s Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan. At the core of the Leaders programming, however, are its “Challenge Days” expeditions that take campers all over the state. Young leaders can paddle canoes or kayaks along Moosehead Lake and the Penobscot or St. Croix rivers, sea kayak in Casco Bay, mountain bike through Acadia National Park, go rock climbing in Clifton, or hike Mt. Bigelow or Katahdin. Through introspection and experiential learning in a safe but challenging outdoor environment, leaders learn about themselves while gaining an appreciation for Maine’s natural treasures.
While at Leaders School, teens are challenged by Low and High Ropes Course elements to strengthen self image and build team skills. In addition to more standard classes such as archery, riflery and orienteering, leaders can also participate in Traveling Minstrels (music), Teen Talk (discussions about issues that affect youth), and Energy Infusion Theatre (performing arts). Campers build communication skills, develop teamwork, learn the dynamics of a group, discover themselves and shape goals for the future. The Bangor YMCA Leaders School program has graduated more than 4,200 young leaders in its 41 year history. The relationships and skills they build at Leaders School remain a part of their lives forever.
LIT/CIT
The Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan's LIT and CIT programs culminate the Sleep Away Camp experience. They provide teens with a strong set of skills they can use as future camp counselors and leaders in their communities. Our teen leadership development programs are some of the most comprehensive of their kind. Sixteen year olds begin with a two-week LIT program, which focuses on skill acquisition, team-building, personal development, goal setting, and community service. The CIT program is geared toward 17 year olds who aspire to work in childcare and continue as a leader at camp. During this three week program, participants learn the skills needed to care for children in a camp setting, develop interpersonal relationships, and work alongside members of the camp staff. Additionally, CITs will earn certifications in CPR and First Aid.
Many LIT and CIT participants were former campers who return to become volunteers and staff members, thus providing the legacy of energy and talent that has preserved more than 106 years of Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan tradition.
CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Scholarships are available to Maine families. All families must apply by May 1, 2014.
YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: The Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan facilitates corporate retreats, offers corporate, private, and wedding facility rentals, and guides a plethora of outdoor adventure programs for adults and youth through the year. More information can be found at Our Camp Website Link: www.bangory.org.
CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Dates & Fees are most easily viewed at the following web adress: Our Camp Website Link: www.bangory.org.
SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
We are currently seeking Adventure Seekers Trip Leaders (must be 21+ to apply), a Waterfront Director (must be 21+ to apply), Sous Chefs & Prep Cooks (must be 18+ to apply), and a Health Officer (RN, LNP, PA, DO, MD, EMT 2+).
All inquiries can be sent to mrobshaw[AT]bangory.org.
Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Bangor YMCA Wilderness Center at Camp Jordan
Visit Our Acting Manitou Website
201.857.5208
steve[AT]actingmanitou.com
mailbox[AT]actingmanitou.com
7 Camp Eastwood Circle
Oakland, Maine 04963
WINTER (OFF-SEASON) OFFICE ADDRESS:
Acting Manitou 80 Railroad Ave Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660
CAMP VIDEO LINK:
Watch Our Acting Manitou Video
CAMPER AGES: 11-17
TYPE OF CAMP: Overnight/Sleepaway.
CAMPER GENDER(S): Coed Campers.
BRIEF CAMP DESCRIPTION: Acting Manitou is an intensive overnight summer theater camp in Maine for acting students ages 11-17. Experience Maine, theater training and performance and a lifelong community of friends and fellow artists.
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPERS: inclusive
CAMP INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES OFFERED:
Dance, Theater, Musical Theater, Music/Band, Fine Arts/Crafts, and more.
CAMP LOCATION: Acting Manitou is in residence at the beautiful performing arts campsite, Camp Eastwood just outside of Waterville, Maine, ninety minutes north of Portland. Camp Eastwood neighbors our old home, Camp Manitou. Eastwood represents one of the finest performing arts camp venues in the great state of Maine. Acting Manitou is proud to call Camp Eastwood home! Visit our web-site to take a virtual tour of camp: Our Camp Website Link: www.actingmanitou.com
▌Read More about Acting Manitou
CAMP FACILITIES: We have 12 beautiful camper cabins, outdoor pool, one mainstage 200 seat state of the art thrust theater, one outdoor amphitheater performance space, 3 professional quality rehearsal rooms, one outdoor rehearsal gazebo and a comfortable, well-maintained health center.
CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Our mission is to produce high caliber theatrical performances in a nurturing, ensemble-based environment that supports each camper's individual artistry. Our campers put on fantastic shows, with people they grow to care very much about and respect even more. Every camper is an important piece of the production. We believe in compassion for others and passion for theater. We offer campers three weeks 'unplugged', where they can make great theater surrounded by nature, in the beautiful state of Maine. We seek to create an artistic haven for our campers and staff, free of external pressures.
Campers at Acting Manitou grow as both people and performers, developing confidence in themselves and important skills of collaboration and communication.
Acting Manitou was founded in 2003 by Tim Brownell and Steve Borowka. At the time, Tim and Steve were both teaching artists working for The McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton, NJ. During the summer, Steve worked as Theater Director for Camp Manitou, a boy's sports camp, while Tim split time directing for The Imagination Stage in Washington DC and running Middle Ground Theater, the day camp that he founded in Middlebury, Vermont. In the summer of 2003, Tim and Steve joined forces to found Acting Manitou and took up residence at the end of the summer at Camp Manitou.
During the first summer of operation, the program had 11 campers most of whom came from Vermont. The following summer the program doubled in size to 22, then 30 campers the summer after that. Its fourth summer of operation doubled again to 60 campers and its fifth summer, the last at Camp Manitou, enrolled 80 campers and produced five shows.
In the summer of 2008, Acting Manitou took up residence next door to Camp Manitou, at a brand-new performing arts campsite called Camp Eastwood. In planning the design of the new campsite's theater, Tim and Steve created a versatile and intimate thrust stage, capable of putting audience members in close contact with the performers, as well as offering directors a variety of opportunities for flexible staging. 2016 marks Acting Manitou's fourteenth summer of operation, having produced ten shows in 2015, with 140 campers and 40 staff.
These days, the actors perform for standing room only crowds of family, friends, and local residents of the Waterville community. The Acting Manitou mission: Be inspired Support and inspire others Challenge yourself creatively Be a good friend to all Work tirelessly on your performance Take care of yourself and others Commune with nature Fall in love with your play Make lifelong friends And take joy in all you do.
CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: CIT program for campers entering 12th grade in high school. CIT campers participate in regular camp activities, including shows, and receives mentorship from staff as they prepare for college theater auditions.
CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Scholarships available through the Acting Manitou Scholarships Foundation
OTHER CAMP INFO: The Acting Manitou mission: Be inspired Support and inspire others Challenge yourself creatively Be a good friend to all Work tirelessly on your performance Take care of yourself and others Commune with nature Fall in love with your play Make lifelong friends And take joy in all you do.
CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Our Camp Website Link: www.actingmanitou.com
Print (or view) Camp Profile for:
Acting Manitou
Greater Portland Branch
VISIT WEBSITE
70 Forest Avenue
Portland, ME 04101
207-874-1111
Casco Bay Branch
VISIT WEBSITE
14 Old S Freeport Rd
Freeport, ME 04032
207-865-9600
Northern York County
VISIT WEBSITE
3 Pomerleau St
Biddeford, ME 04005
207-283-0100
Pineland Branch
VISIT WEBSITE
25 Campus Dr Ste 100
New Gloucester, ME 04260
207-688-2255
Bangor Service Center
(207) 989-7474
359 Perry Rd Ste B
Bangor, ME
South Portland Service Center
(207) 772-1177
138 Gannett Drive
South Portland, ME
Visit Our Website for more info.
MORE MAINE SUMMER SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPS ARE COMING SOON. YOU CAN CHOOSE ANOTHER STATE FROM THE LIST BELOW.
MAINE SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP OWNERS & DIRECTORS: If you would like to submit your camp for listing in our 2024 Best Maine Summer Special Needs Camps Directory, please click on the "SUBMIT YOUR CAMP" link above.
MAINE SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP PARENTS & CAMPERS: If you are looking to find info on how to choose the best summer camp to attend this summer, please check out our 2024 GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE BEST SUMMER SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP for some great camp research tips and lots of important 2024 summer camp info.
In addition to our 2024 Maine Summer Special Needs Camps Directory we have also created quite a few SPECIAL INTEREST CAMP DIRECTORIES, and have included brief descriptions of these and links to their dedicated websites on the 2024 CAMP GUIDE page.
You can go directly to any of our other 2024 Special Interest Camp Directories from the list in the black bar at the bottom of this page.
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