The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte offers a comprehensive suite of specialized camp programs designed exclusively for individuals with Down syndrome, spanning from early childhood through adulthood. Camp Holiday is a vibrant summer day camp serving ages 5-21 with two convenient locations (North and South) and flexible scheduling options (9am-2pm or 9am-4pm). This program features engaging weekly themes and a diverse array of activities including arts & crafts, water play, scienceThe Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte offers a comprehensive suite of specialized camp programs designed exclusively for individuals with Down syndrome, spanning from early childhood through adulthood. Camp Holiday is a vibrant summer day camp serving ages 5-21 with two convenient locations (North and South) and flexible scheduling options (9am-2pm or 9am-4pm). This program features engaging weekly themes and a diverse array of activities including arts & crafts, water play, science experiments, literacy activities, yoga, drama, music, Zumba, and movement classes. For campers ages 14-21, specialized vocational readiness activities help build essential life and work skills. The program maintains an excellent 3:1 counselor-to-camper ratio with certified teachers and trained camp counselors.
Camp Horizon provides a traditional 4-day/3-night overnight camp experience for ages 10-17 at YMCA Camp Harrison in Boomer, NC. This immersive retreat features outdoor adventures including horseback riding, boating, fishing, and swimming, along with arts & crafts activities. Each camper is paired with a dedicated 1:1 volunteer counselor, ensuring personalized attention and support. For adults ages 18 and older, the organization offers seasonal Adult Weekend Retreats (Spring and Fall) at YMCA Camp Thunderbird near Lake Wylie, South Carolina, providing 3-day/2-night overnight experiences designed specifically for adult participants.
All programs emphasize building life skills, strengthening social connections, enhancing learning, and fostering lifelong friendships within a supportive community. The organization is committed to removing financial barriers through the “Angel Guyeska” Scholarship program, making these enriching experiences accessible to eligible families. With professional instructors, structured activities, and a focus on individual growth and independence, these camps provide meaningful summer experiences and year-round opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome.
Special Features
Specialized programs exclusively for individuals with Down syndrome
Two Camp Holiday locations for convenience (North and South)
Flexible daily scheduling options (9am-2pm or 9am-4pm)
Professional instructors for specialized activities (yoga, drama, music, Zumba)
Vocational readiness training for ages 14-21
1:1 volunteer counselor ratio at Camp Horizon
3:1 counselor-to-camper ratio at Camp Holiday with certified teachers
Angel Guyeska Scholarship program for eligible families
Year-round programming (spring, summer, and fall)
Focus on life skills, social connections, and independence building
Activities
Arts & craftsWater playScience experimentsLiteracy activitiesYogaDramaMusicZumbaMovement classesVocational readiness activitiesSnack preparationMaterial distributionRole modeling activitiesCommunication and problem-solving lessonsSelf-advocacy trainingHorseback ridingBoatingFishingSwimming
5-21 years (Camp Holiday); 10-17 years (Camp Horizon); 18+ years (Adult Retreats)
Cost:
Camp Holiday: $330 (1 week, 9am-4pm) / $630 (2 weeks, 9am-4pm) with discounted rates for 9am-2pm option; Camp Horizon: $375; Scholarships available for eligible families
Location:
3900 Park Rd #C, Charlotte, NC 28209
Schedule:
Camp Holiday SOUTH: June 29 – July 31, 2026 (5 weeks); Camp Holiday NORTH: June 15 – July 31, 2026 (6 weeks); Camp Horizon: August 12-15, 2026; Adult Spring Retreat: May 15-17, 2026; Adult Fall Retreat: September 18-20, 2026. Camp Holiday operates Monday-Friday with flexible daily schedules (9am-2pm or 9am-4pm)
