About Camp Little Giant in Makanda, IL

Celebrating its 65th anniversary this year, Camp Little Giant has been a beacon of inclusivity since 1952. It was the first camp in the nation designed specifically to serve campers with disabilities, and was the first camp to be accredited by the American Camp Association. The camp's mission of providing a safe and enriching environment for campers has set the standard for special needs camps across the country, and has even paved the way for the Special Olympics. Camp Little Giant is dedicated to giving campers with disabilities a true camp experience. It offers traditional activities such as outdoor recreation, swimming, arts & crafts, and music & drama, and all activities are adapted to meet the needs of campers with disabilities. Through its commitment to inclusion, Camp Little Giant has been a leader in providing campers with disabilities an opportunity to enjoy all the benefits of a traditional camp experience. For 65 years, Camp Little Giant has been at the forefront of special needs camps, paving the way for the Special Olympics, and bringing joy and inclusivity to campers of all abilities.

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What kind of kids we support

  • On the spectrum
  • Coed
  • Kids
  • Tweens

Amenities

  • Handicap accessible
  • Electricity in sleeping area
  • Sleeping cabins
  • Infirmary
  • Sports Court/Field

Programs at Camp Little Giant in Makanda, IL

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DYNA CAMP

Camp tailored for campers diagnosed with ADHD ages 8-12. Dyna Camp is designed for children and teenagers with ADHD who do not need the level of support offered at special needs overnight camps yet need a different experience than a large traditional overnight camp can offer. This camp has a Sunday PM Drop Off - Friday PM Pick Up. This camp is not a medical/treatment/therapy-based camp. Program models traditional summer camp activities with special attention given to individual needs throughout the week.

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LILLYPADS

Lillypads is tailored to the special needs of children who struggle in social spheres or need a little more attention than a traditional camp may offer. Whether diagnosed with Autism Spectrum, generalized anxiety, ADHD, or social anxiety, the Lilypads section of Camp Little Giant fosters friendship development, gently guides personal development and nurtures social growth in all campers. This camp does not require a diagnosis to attend! This camp is also for campers who just may not be ready for a camp with 50+ campers with high staff ratios! This camp has a Sunday Drop Off - Friday PM Pick Up. This camp is not a medical/treatment/therapy-based camp. Our program models traditional summer camp activities with special attention given to individual needs throughout the week.

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DYNAMIC DUOS!

Dynamic Duos! adults is catered to adults with developmental, cognitive or physical disabilities and their college/adult aged peers. Campers participate side by side with their camp “buddy” in traditional summer camp activities including hiking, swimming, kayaking, arts and crafts, rock climbing, ropes course and team building. Camp “buddies” will be paired with your camper for the camp week. They will be a bunk mate, meal mate, activity mate and helping hand to their buddy with a disability.

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Location and contact information

1206 Touch of Nature Road, Makanda, IL, 62958