If you still haven’t signed your kid up for an amputee-themed summer camp, don’t wait much longer. All the programs listed below are sleepaway camps with national reach, and most have been accepting applications since January. They all still had slots available as Amplitude went to press in early February.
In addition, local organizations across the country offer day camps for kids with limb difference and other disabilities. There also are numerous camp opportunities for adult amputees. Search for these programs in Amplitude’s online Community Resource Directory, using the keyword “camp.”
Camp Phoenix
Sponsored by Blaze Sports, the camp allows kids with limb difference and other disabilities to try adaptive sports, build leadership skills, and develop new friendships.
Dates: June 2-7
Location: Winder, GA
Cost: $400
Ages: 7-18
Sign up: blazesports.org/youth/camp-phoenix
Camp No Limits
Now in its 21st year, this nationwide program accommodates limb-different kids and their families. It features activities designed by prosthetists, PTs, and OTs that support young amputees’ independence and build their confidence.
Dates: Ten weekends between May and September
Locations: Nine states
Cost: $500 per person
Ages: Varies by session
Sign up: nolimitsfoundation.org/camps
Nubability Camps
Founded in 2011, Nubability has expanded its programming to include a range of sport-specific camps focused on skiing, baseball, basketball, fishing, shooting, and outdoor recreation. Family members welcome.
Dates: Five weekends between May and September
Locations: Arizona, Illinois, Montana, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania
Cost: $400
Ages: 4-17
Sign up: nubability.org/camps
Adventure Amputee Camp
Now in its 30th year, AAC helps kids with limb difference stretch their potential and their imagination. Activities range from physical challenges (such as river rafting and rope climbing) to relaxing pastimes (swimming, bicycling, crafts).
Dates: 2nd week in July
Location: Bryson City, NC
Cost: None
Ages: 8-17
Sign up: adventureamputeecamp.org/summer-camp-1
USA Patriots Kids Camp
Held annually by the USA Patriots amputee softball team, this one-of-a-kind program provides first-rate softball coaching and competition for kids with limb difference.
Dates: July 7-14
Location: Fond du Lac, WI
Cost: None
Ages: 8-12
Sign up: usapatriotsathletics.org/kidscamp/
Shriner’s Un-Limb-ited Activity Camp
Open only to Shriner’s patients from all over the country, this exciting camp features a 90-mile whitewater rafting trip on the Green River, through canyons first mapped by amputee explorer John Wesley Powell.
Dates: July 14-20
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Cost: All expenses paid
Ages: 12-17
Sign up: Email MLowell@shrinenet.org
Amputee Coalition Youth Camp
Formerly known as Paddy Rossbach, this annual get-together helps young amputees connect with each other, build confidence, develop leadership skills, and diminish their sense of isolation. Activities run the gamut from sports to creative arts, STEM projects, wilderness recreation, and more.
Dates: TBD
Location: TBD
Cost: Free
Ages: 10-17
Sign up: amputee-coalition.org/events-programs/youth-camp/