Our program provides opportunities to develop an appreciation of nature, live cooperatively with others, share in the responsibilities of group living, develop new leisure interests, experience traditional camp activities and have fun! General sessions provide a traditional camp experience for children and teenagers, while the resort-like settings at all five locations offer a relaxing and refreshing atmosphere for adult guests. Guests determine their own activity interests and level of participation. Siblings and friends are also welcome to attend. We have structured our prices based on care ratios. Our staff to camper ratios often differ from daily living care ratios. Please visit www.truefriends.org or speak with camp staff to determine the best care ratio for you. Please see below for a description of the different programs/sessions. Dates and cost for each can be found in the session area. Camp Otter 1:1 NEW! Providing an environment that brings out gifts within individuals who have a high care needs. Our 1:1 staffing fosters the nurturing setting that enhances campers’ unique qualities and talents. Focusing on their contribution to the camp community builds self-worth and social comfort. Campers who need 1:1 support due to behavioral or physical needs can choose Camp Otter. Horsing Around Any session with “Horsing Around” in the title offers traditional camp PLUS equine experiences. Learn horsemanship, horse history (from the wild west to the pony express), fun saddle skills and a taste of what Therapeutic Horseback Riding(THR) is like. In riding or connecting with a horse, participants gain physical, mental, social and emotional skill development in a unique setting, plus get an unforgettable experience. Camp Independence Designed for higher ability campers who can be supported at a 1:3+ ratio. Siblings are invited to all sessions. Participants are independent in daily living and social skills with few behavioral challenges. This inclusive camp is for youth with or without disabilities seeking to grow skills in: Independence, self-esteem, peer-relationship building, social comfort, adventure, exploration and decision-making. In this graduated program, youth and teens are responsible for achieving individual daily objectives based on their personal growth goals. Campers work both individually and as a team to earn “camp money” on credit cards that they can use to “purchase” outings and special treats. Staff are trained to build skills in campers ages 5-18. Autism Sensory Splash 1:1 Geared towards individuals who benefit from short, frequent programs, with a high-level of transition support between activities. Campers’ days are filled with visual supports, sensory breaks, and highly-structured activity periods. One-to-one staffing provides flexibility to campers so they can make activity choices that meet their individual tastes, and take breaks as needed. Campers who benefit from this program include those experiencing disabilities associated with autism spectrum disorders, sensory processing disorders, profound cognitive disabilities, and anyone who enjoys a high level of structure, visual supports and staffing flexibility. Destination Smiles Down Syndrome For kids, teens, and adults. Enjoy outdoor experiences with new friends! Campers live in cabins with peers of a similar age, and will participate in camp activities that foster friendship-building within the Down Syndrome community.A youth mentorship program will help welcome young, new campers by pairing them with an older teen to help them learn the ropes of camp. Sibling Youth Camp A fully-inclusive program for kids ages 5-18. Campers and their siblings and friends enjoy a wide variety of programs such as outdoor recreational games, swimming, archery, fishing, boating, camping, creative arts, talent shows and climbing activities. Staff members guide cabin groups through activities that help campers learn and thrive in peer living settings while practicing social interactions in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Adult Getaway Retreat Designed for campers with low care needs who can complete daily living skills. Participants enjoy more free time and plan their own camp vacation by choosing activities that challenge and interest them. Each camp is located on a lake packed with aquatic fun and is full of hiking trails for exploring. Make sure to get enough rest in our modern cabins to do it all again the next day! Adult Getaway Retreat Art Extravaganza This new session was developed as a spin off the traditional Adult Getaway Retreat, with a focus in art.Featured activities include: ceramics, digital art, pencil drawing, sculpture, printmaking, textiles, jewelry making, basket weaving and photography. Campers will build patience with an extended project and express life challenges and successes with creative media and fine art.