We partner with Riley Children’s Hospital to put on an adaptive summer camp for all. Campers with a wide range of diagnoses get the opportunity to experience a week of camp and become the best versions of themselves.
Basic Camp Info
Address: 5040 SR 67 N, Martinsville, Indiana
Phone: (765) 349-5119
Email: [email protected]
Website: bradfordwoods.iu.edu
Gender of Campers: Male and Female
Special Needs Offered: Downs Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Autism, developmental delays
Ages: 8-18, as well as an Adult Camp
Dates: May 24-July 31
Hours: All Day
Activities: Archery, canoeing, fishing, arts and crafts, music, nature hikes, zip lining, rock wall climbing
Q & A with Bradford Woods
What makes your camp unique?
Bradford Woods is designed with the idea of “Outdoors for All”. The property includes 2,500 acres and a 110 acre lake, along with many paved paths that are accessible to anyone. Summer buildings are universally designed so everyone has the opportunity to participate and engage throughout camp. High-ropes elements can be adapted for all participants, including the zip line.
What activities are offered at your camp?
The camp offers many of the same activities found at traditional summer camps. On land, campers can do arts and crafts, archery, nature hikes, music, and use the sports pavilion. On the lake, campers can canoe and fish, and ride on pontoon boats.
What is the camper-to-counselor ratio?
Camper-to-staff ratio varies by session and camper needs, ranging from 1:1 to 1:5 depending on medical and emotional needs.
How much time do the campers spend outside?
Campers typically spend around 7 hours outside each day.
Does the camp provide lunch/snacks or do parents need to provide them?
All meals are provided. The dining hall staff can accommodate a wide range of diets and dietary needs.
What is the typical daily schedule for campers?
Monday through Wednesday are more structured. Campers wake up, eat breakfast, and do cabin activities. After lunch, campers have a cabin break and then continue afternoon activities. After dinner, campers come together for an evening program.
Thursday is “Challenge Day” when all activities are open. Campers can complete favorite challenges (like hitting the bullseye at archery or catching 10 fish) or create their own.
Friday is check-out in the morning.
How old are the counselors and how are they trained?
Staff are typically college-age students and adults. Training lasts a full week before summer and covers personal care, assisting with activities of daily living, and other essentials. A Riley nurse also provides training on medical procedures.
What accommodations are made for campers with special needs?
Camp is designed around “Outdoors for All” with universally designed buildings and accessibility supports across the property, including paved paths, a ramped amphitheater with movable benches, modified silverware, and more.
Is this an overnight camp?
Yes
What does the camper’s living situation look like?
Cabins have a large room that sleeps up to 10 campers with space to maneuver between beds.
How do parents and campers communicate?
Parents can send emails to a designated address and messages will be shared with campers. Mail can also be sent and received.
How does your camp handle homesickness?
Campers can receive letters and emails and can send letters home. The team generally avoids phone contact during the week to support the full camp experience, but exceptions can be made when a camper would benefit from a call.
What are the meals like at camp?
Meals are served in the dining hall and dietary needs can be accommodated.
Can parents visit the camp?
Not during camp. First-year campers can visit camp before the summer starts.
What percentage of campers return every year?
Last year, around 60% of campers returned from previous years.
Is the schedule highly structured, or do kids have a lot of free choices?
Monday through Wednesday are more structured with planned activities. On Thursday, campers can choose any activity they would like to do.
Is transportation available to and from camp?
No, camper families and caregivers are responsible for their own transportation.
