Camp Challenge provides a unique experience for children over 6 years of age and adults of any age with disabilities and special needs to have the opportunity to actively participate in camping activities, engage in social interaction with peers, and achieve life-changing experiences. From campfires to hiking on the nature trail to playing a variety of sports, campers engage in a variety of enriching outdoor activities in a natural Florida setting.
Located in the small town of Sorrento in East Lake County, Florida, Camp Challenge is open to campers from any location. Campers from any Florida county and out-of-state campers are always welcome! Camp Challenge is located between Mount Dora and Sanford; both towns offer quaint downtown shopping and dining experiences, as well as accommodations caregivers can take advantage of while their camper is enjoying time away at camp. Camp is a much a respite for caregivers as it is an experience for the campers.
Most of the camp’s activities, although geared towards having fun, also teach valuable life skills. Our camp provides a respite to families who need to exhale from the stress of being a full-time caregiver. Campers stay with us overnight, so there is an emphasis on independent living skills for dressing and hygiene; our cabins are specifically designed to allow campers independence while still providing support and supervision. Many of our activities involve and promote socialization, including music, drama, theater groups, karaoke, and dances, eating family-style at most meals, and sharing living space in our cabins. Our farm assists with sensory integration activities as well as water activities and hands-on arts and crafts projects involving different materials evoking sensory responses.
The activities available at camp include many enriching and fun opportunities such as hiking and nature walks, participating in drama and music groups, target range, swimming, sports and games, social events, and much more. For many campers, camp is an annual tradition, with some individuals having attended camp for over 20 years. Camp Challenge serves individuals primarily with physical and/or developmental disabilities. The entire camp facility is fully accessible for those using wheelchairs or with other mobility challenges. We also offer nursing care for individuals who may need to take medications or medical intervention at times during the day. Camp Challenge reaches out to those people with disabilities and special needs and provides them with opportunities to do things they never imagined possible.
