Nestled in the scenic heart of Texas, Camp CAMP (Children’s Association for Maximum Potential) Center Point serves as a beacon of joy and development for children and adults with special needs. Located near the iconic Guadalupe River in Center Point, Texas, this camp is surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Texas Hill Country, providing a perfect backdrop for both adventure and relaxation.

Camp CAMP began its journey over 40 years ago with a simple yet powerful mission: to strengthen and inspire individuals with special needs – and their families – to achieve their maximum potential. As an organization deeply rooted in this philosophy, Camp CAMP facilitates an environment where campers not only engage in fun activities but also cultivate skills, friendships, and a deeper sense of independence.

Catering to a diverse group of boys and girls from ages 5 to adulthood, Camp CAMP offers a variety of programs that address the needs of individuals with a wide range of disabilities. Whether it’s through summer sessions, respite weekends, or family retreats, each program is designed to offer enriching experiences that adapt to the unique abilities of each camper.

At Camp CAMP, they believe in creating extraordinary experiences within a nurturing community, empowering their campers to embrace their abilities and explore their potential in a supportive, fun-filled environment. Join us in making a difference—one camp session at a time.

Programs Offered by Camp CAMP

At Camp CAMP, each program is thoughtfully designed to cater to the unique needs and interests of their campers. Here’s an overview of the enriching experiences they offer:

Summer Camp Sessions

Length: Their summer camp sessions are versatile, ranging from one-week stays to full summer options, allowing families to choose the best fit for their schedule and the camper’s comfort level.
Activities: Campers can dive into a broad array of activities including arts and crafts, swimming, horseback riding, and nature exploration. Each activity is adapted to meet the abilities of all participants, ensuring everyone has a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Their arts program encourages creativity through painting, music, drama, and more. Each session is designed to help campers express themselves artistically while developing new skills and confidence.
Sports: Focused on fun and teamwork, their sports programs include adapted sports like wheelchair basketball, archery, and more, promoting physical health and sportsmanship.
Science: Campers curious about the world around them can engage in hands-on science activities. These sessions are crafted to be accessible, combining education and fun in a supportive environment.

Respite Weekends

Length: These weekend getaways provide short, impactful bursts of fun and relaxation for campers, typically running from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon.
Purpose: Designed to give parents and caregivers a brief respite, these weekends offer campers a mix of recreation and socialization, ensuring a refreshing break filled with engaging activities.

Family Retreats

Length: Occurring several times a year, these retreats allow entire families to experience camp together over a weekend.
Focus: Family retreats strengthen family bonds through shared activities and provide a supportive network for parents and siblings of individuals with special needs.

Typical Daily Schedule

Morning: Campers start the day with a nourishing breakfast followed by morning activities tailored to their interests and abilities.
Afternoon: After lunch, there’s a rest period followed by more activities. These might include specialized programs like art workshops or science experiments.
Evening: Dinners are a time for everyone to gather and share their day’s experiences. Post-dinner, campers enjoy more relaxed activities such as campfires, storytelling, or star-gazing before heading to bed.

At Camp CAMP, every program is infused with the ethos of empowerment, joy, and community, ensuring that each camper’s experience is not only fun but also enriching and transformative.

Accommodations in Camp CAMP

Camp CAMP is dedicated to ensuring that every camper has a comfortable and accommodating stay, with facilities designed to meet the needs of individuals with special needs. Here’s what campers and families can expect in terms of accommodations:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their primary accommodation consists of well-equipped cabins that are designed to be both accessible and cozy. Each cabin is climate-controlled, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. They are also equipped with safety features to accommodate campers with various needs.
Capacity: Cabins are spacious, allowing for campers and their caregivers or staff to have adequate space. Campers are grouped by age and program to foster a community feel and ensure everyone has peers nearby.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp CAMP provides three well-balanced meals per day, along with snacks to keep energy levels up. All meals are prepared on-site by their culinary staff who are trained in food safety and dietary accommodations.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the diverse needs of their campers, they offer meal options that cater to various dietary restrictions including gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and vegetarian options. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to discuss any specific dietary needs with their staff prior to arrival to ensure all needs are met comprehensively.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Accessibility: All bathroom and shower facilities at Camp CAMP are fully accessible, and designed to accommodate campers with mobility challenges. Features include grab bars, wide doorways, and roll-in showers.
Privacy and Support: Facilities are constructed with privacy in mind, while also allowing room for caregivers to assist if necessary. Staff members are always available to provide additional support and ensure that every camper’s hygiene needs are met with dignity and respect.

Their goal at Camp CAMP is to provide a safe, comfortable environment where all campers can focus on having fun, learning, and growing. They strive to ensure that every aspect of their camp—from the sleeping quarters to the dining hall—is welcoming, inclusive, and adapted to meet the needs of all their participants.

Activities in Camp CAMP

Camp CAMP offers a broad spectrum of activities designed to engage campers of all abilities, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate, learn new skills, and enjoy their time. Here’s a closer look at the activities and special opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Supervised by trained lifeguards, their swimming activities are adapted to ensure safety and enjoyment for all, including those with physical limitations.
Hiking: Accessible trails around the camp allow all campers to explore the natural beauty of Texas Hill Country.
Crafts: A variety of arts and crafts projects are available, allowing campers to express their creativity through painting, sculpture, and more.
Music and Drama: Summer camps can participate in music sessions and drama clubs, culminating in performances that build confidence and teamwork.
Sports: They offer adapted sports such as wheelchair basketball, soccer, and more, designed to be inclusive and fun while promoting physical fitness.
Nature Studies: Educational programs that explore the local flora and fauna, teaching campers about the environment through hands-on activities.
Horseback Riding: Provided at a specially adapted equestrian center, this activity helps in developing balance, coordination, and the unique therapeutic benefits of animal interaction.

Special Events or Traditions

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include singing, storytelling, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and tradition.
Theme Days: Special theme days like “Superhero Day” or “Pirate Day” add a fun twist to activities, encouraging campers to dress up and engage creatively.
End-of-Session Carnival: A carnival with games, prizes, and festive foods marks the end of each session, celebrating the achievements and experiences of all campers.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop skills in mentoring younger campers and managing camp activities.
Independence Skills: Activities are structured to encourage self-reliance and independence within a safe and supportive environment.
Social Skills: Through group activities and shared living arrangements, campers naturally enhance their social interactions and communication skills.

At Camp CAMP, each activity and event is more than just a pastime—it’s a chance to learn, grow, and make lasting friendships. They are committed to providing an environment that not only entertains but also enriches, ensuring that every camper leaves with new skills, confidence, and cherished memories.

The staff of Camp CAMP

At Camp CAMP, they are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers. This commitment is reflected in their rigorous staff selection and training processes. Here’s an overview of their staffing structure and standards:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Ratio: Camp CAMP maintains a high staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and optimal care for each camper. Typically, the ratio is one staff member for every two campers.
Special Needs Consideration: For campers requiring more intensive care, the ratio is adjusted to ensure adequate support, often one-to-one, depending on the individual needs.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Recruitment: Staff are recruited based on their skills, experience, and passion for working with children and adults with special needs. Many of their staff members are professionals in special education, therapy, and healthcare.
Background Checks: All potential hires undergo thorough background checks, including criminal records and references, to ensure the safety and integrity of their camp environment.
Qualifications: They seek staff with relevant qualifications—such as degrees in special education, psychology, or related fields—and practical experience in caregiving or specialized services.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Additional certifications, such as Lifeguarding or Crisis Prevention and Intervention (CPI), are required for roles that specifically need them.
Ongoing Training: Camp CAMP conducts extensive pre-camp training sessions covering camper care, emergency procedures, communication skills, and program-specific training. This training is complemented by ongoing in-service training throughout the camp season.
Specialized Training: Staff working directly with campers who have more severe disabilities receive specialized training tailored to the needs of those individuals, ensuring they are adept in handling specific medical, physical, or behavioral needs.

Supportive Environment

Continuous Improvement: They regularly evaluate their training programs and staff performance to continuously improve the support and care they provide. Feedback from campers, families, and staff members is a critical part of this process.

At Camp CAMP, their staff are not just caregivers and facilitators—they are an integral part of the camp family, dedicated to creating a camp experience that fosters independence, joy, and growth. They ensure that every staff member is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and compassion required to meet the diverse needs of their campers and contribute to a memorable and transformative camp experience.

Safety and Health in Camp CAMP

At Camp CAMP, the safety and health of their campers and staff are their top priorities. They have comprehensive protocols and facilities in place to ensure that everyone experiences a secure and supportive environment.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills to ensure that both staff and campers are familiar with safety procedures.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity is governed by specific safety rules, designed to prevent accidents and injuries. For example, swimming activities are closely monitored by certified lifeguards, and all sports equipment is adapted and checked regularly.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with controlled access points and is monitored to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on site.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp CAMP houses a fully-equipped health center staffed by qualified healthcare professionals including nurses and, during peak sessions, a visiting doctor.
24/7 Availability: Their medical staff is available around the clock to address any health issues that might arise, providing routine and emergency care.
Medication Management: The health center staff is responsible for managing and administering all camper medications according to physician instructions, ensuring adherence to strict protocols for storage and distribution.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: They have a well-defined emergency response plan that includes protocols for handling various types of emergencies, from medical issues to natural disasters. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated.
Training in Emergency Protocols: All staff members receive training in emergency response, ensuring they know how to act swiftly and efficiently to secure the safety of all campers.
Communication with Families: In the event of an emergency, Camp CAMP has a clear communication plan to keep families informed. They ensure that emergency contact information for each camper is up-to-date and accessible.

Partnership with Local Authorities

Collaboration with Local Emergency Services: They maintain strong relationships with local police, fire departments, and hospitals to ensure a quick response time in case of an off-site emergency that requires additional resources.
Transportation Arrangements: In case a camper needs to be transported to a local hospital, they have arrangements in place with local ambulance services to ensure prompt and efficient transportation.

At Camp CAMP, their commitment to safety and health is integral to their mission. They strive to create an environment where campers can enjoy their activities with the assurance that their well-being is safeguarded at all times. This dedication to health and safety is reflected in every aspect of their camp operations, from staff training to the design of their facilities and activities.

Cost and Registration in Camp CAMP

Understanding the financial aspects of attending Camp CAMP is important for families as they plan their participation. They strive to make camp accessible for all, offering a transparent cost structure and various financial support options.

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attendance at Camp CAMP covers all aspects of the camp experience including lodging, meals, medical care, program materials, and all activities. Prices vary depending on the length of the session and the specific needs of the camper.
Additional Costs: There may be additional costs for certain optional activities or special events. They provide a detailed breakdown of any extra fees during the registration process to ensure families can plan accordingly.

The full fee to attend a summer camp session at Camp CAMP in Center Point, TX is $2,500.

Registration Process and Deadlines

How to Register: Registration for Camp CAMP can be completed online. The process includes filling out detailed forms about the camper’s medical history, dietary needs, and any special accommodations required.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months before the start of each session and they encourage early registration as spaces fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing that families have different financial capabilities, Camp CAMP offers flexible payment plans. Families can choose to pay in installments over several months leading up to the camp session.
Refunds and Cancellations: They offer a tiered refund policy. Full refunds are available up to a certain date, which decreases as the camp date approaches. In the event of a cancellation due to medical reasons, special considerations are made.
Cancellation Due to Camp CAMP: Should it be necessary for Camp CAMP to cancel a session, such as due to public health concerns, full refunds will be issued or families may choose to apply their payment to a future session.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability of Scholarships: Camp CAMP is committed to inclusivity and provides scholarships to families based on financial need. These scholarships can cover a significant portion of the camp fees.
Application Process: Families interested in scholarships must fill out a financial aid application and provide documentation supporting their financial status. The application process is confidential and designed to be respectful and dignified.
Additional Support: They also offer guidance on external sources of financial aid and fundraising opportunities that families can pursue to help cover camp costs.

At Camp CAMP, they believe that financial barriers should not prevent anyone from experiencing the joys and benefits of camp. Their goal is to assist families in every possible way to ensure that all eligible campers have the opportunity to join us for a memorable and impactful summer.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp CAMP

Preparing for a stay at Camp CAMP is an exciting time for both campers and their families. To ensure everyone is ready and informed, they provide a detailed packing list, clear guidelines on rules and policies, and helpful tips for first-time campers and parents.

Packing List

Clothing: Enough comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing for the duration of the stay, including swimwear, hats, and sturdy shoes for outdoor activities.
Bedding and Toiletries: Bedding for a twin bed (sheets, blanket, pillow), and personal toiletry items.
Medications: Clearly labeled medications with dosage instructions. All medications must be turned over to the camp medical staff upon arrival.
Sun and Insect Protection: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Special Equipment: Any specific items related to the camper’s needs, such as special eating utensils or communication devices, should be brought along with instructions for use.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To ensure all campers are fully engaged in the camp experience, the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles is restricted. Devices needed for health or educational purposes are allowed with prior approval.
Visitation: For the safety and security of all campers, visitation during camp sessions is limited to designated times and must be pre-approved by the camp administration. Families will receive information on how to schedule visits.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow camp rules, show respect to staff and peers, and participate actively in scheduled activities. Parents are encouraged to discuss these expectations with their children before arrival.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Orientation: Participate in pre-camp orientations if available. These sessions are a great opportunity to meet camp staff, ask questions, and help your camper feel more prepared.
Communication: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the fun activities and new friends to be made. Encourage your camper to express any concerns or questions they might have.
Independence: Even if it’s just a short stay, camp is a great time for campers to practice some independence in a safe and supportive environment. Discuss and practice some skills they might need, like organizing belongings or choosing what to wear.
Emotional Preparation: It’s normal for both campers and parents to feel a bit anxious about being apart, especially for the first time. Talk about these feelings and plan to stay in touch through letters or scheduled calls if permitted.

By carefully preparing and following these guidelines, parents can help ensure that their camper has a successful and enjoyable experience at Camp CAMP. Their staff is always available to assist with any questions or concerns to make this transition as smooth as possible.

At Camp CAMP Center Point, TX, they believe that every individual deserves the chance to experience joy, make lasting friendships, and develop new skills in a supportive and nurturing environment. Their camp offers a unique blend of fun, learning, and personal growth, all set in the stunning natural beauty of Texas Hill Country. With a wide range of activities, dedicated staff, and comprehensive safety protocols, they ensure that every camper has a memorable and impactful experience.

They are committed to inclusivity and accessibility, making sure that campers from all backgrounds and with various needs can enjoy everything Camp CAMP has to offer. Their robust financial aid and scholarship programs further their mission to provide these opportunities to as many individuals as possible.