REGISTRATION FOR ALL CAMPS is now OPEN
If you have any questions, please contact Victoria Coles- Managing Director at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org
We are excited for the 2026 planning of our Camp Programs–Camp Holiday our summer day camp, Camp Horizon our sleep away camp and our Adult Retreat weekends.
VOLUNTEER INTEREST?? For all Camp Horizon Counselor Volunteer interest sign up here.
If you are interested in a counselor position for Camp Holiday (Summer Day camp) please complete the form and reach out to contactus@dsa-gc.org with your resume. Camp Holiday Counselor Interest
**Per our policies and following the American Camp Association of North Carolina guidelines, completed registration, medical documents, updated vaccinations, and provider clearance is required 4 weeks prior to the start of camp.
CAMP HOLIDAY
Camp Holiday- SOUTH- St. Stephen Methodist Church- Sardis Rd
June 29- July 31 (5 weeks)
Camp Holiday- NORTH- Crossway Community Church- Prosperity Church Rd
June 15-July 31 (6 weeks- no camp week of June 29-July 3)
CAMP REGISTRATION HERE (opens March 1, 2026)
Camp Holiday is a day camp for campers with Down syndrome, ages 5-21, in the Greater Charlotte area. We host camp at 2 location to further serve more campers in our community.
Camp activities are based on weekly themes and include gross-motor and fine-motor activities, arts & crafts, water exploration, science experiments, literacy, and so much more! In addition, participating campers enjoy weekly yoga, drama, music, Zumba, and movement class facilitated by trained professionals. Each group of campers is supported by a certified teacher and 1-2 camp counselors- offering a 3:1 counselor-to-camper ratio. Campers ages 14-21 will participate in activities that promote independence and vocational readiness as a part of their camp experience each day. These campers will help prepare daily snacks, assist with collecting & distributing materials and supplies to classrooms (which will be monitored closely to promote camper health safety), participate as role models for younger camper group activities, engage in lessons that promote communication, problem solving, self- advocacy and more. Younger campers will practice vital social and communication skills through exploratory hands-on activities as well as physical activities to promote health & growth. Participants attend camp Monday-Friday.
TIME:
Campers will attend from 9am-4pm.
TUITION:
Cost (Camp Holiday): $330 (1 week sessions)/ $630/(2 week session) (9am-4pm)
Scholarships are available for eligible families. To apply for a Camp and/or Retreat “Angel Guyeska” Scholarship, please go to the camp registration site, create an account, and fill out the application form located in the “Camper/Participant Information” section under Financial Assistance.
Do you want to sponsor a camper for Camp Holiday?
Donate here.
August 12-15, 2026
YMCA Camp Harrison
Boomer, NC
CAMP REGISTRATION HERE (opens March 1, 2026)
Camp Horizon is a 4-day/3-night traditional overnight experience at YMCA Camp Harrison in Boomer, NC. Participating campers with Down syndrome, ages 10-17, enjoy traditional camp activities, including horseback riding, arts & crafts, boating, fishing, swimming and more. Campers are assigned a 1:1 volunteer counselor for the duration of their time at camp. Camp Horizon builds self-confidence and independence within the context of a traditional sleep-away camp experience.
Cost: $375
Scholarships are available for eligible families. To apply for a Camp and/or Retreat “Angel Guyeska” Scholarship, please go to the camp registration site, create an account, and fill out the application form located in the “Camper/Participant Information” section under Financial Assistance.
Do you want to sponsor a camper for Camp Horizon?
Donate here.
QUESTIONS?! Email DSA-GC Program and Community Outreach Director, Victoria Coles at victoria.coles@dsa-gc.org
DSAGC Adult Weekend Retreat
SPRING Retreat –May 15-17th, 2026(Lake Wylie area)
FALL Retreat–September 18-20th, 2026 (Lake Wylie area)
CAMP REGISTRATION HERE (opens March 1, 2026)
DSAGC Adult Weekend Retreats: An Enriching Overnight Camp Experience for Adults with Down Syndrome (Ages 18+)
The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte (DSAGC) proudly hosts two Adult Weekend Retreats each year at the beautiful YMCA Camp Thunderbird, located conveniently near Lake Wylie, South Carolina. These popular 3-day, 2-night overnight camp experiences are specifically designed for adults with Down syndrome, aged 18 and older, providing a unique opportunity for growth, connection, and adventure.
What Campers Can Expect:
- Supportive Environment: Campers are supported by dedicated volunteer counselors with an excellent 3:1 ratio and enjoy cabin accommodations with their peers.
- Engaging Activities: Our retreats offer a wide array of adult-centric activities, fostering both fun and personal development. Highlights include:
- Outdoor Adventures: Experience the thrill of making campfires, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and exploring various ropes courses.
- Creative & Recreational: Engage in archery, unique horse painting, and a variety of group games.
- Life Skills & Community: Participate in team building challenges, vocational readiness exercises, and meaningful volunteer activities.
- Community Partnerships: Enjoy dynamic on-site activities and workshops led by community partners, such as soccer, martial arts, dance, and fitness programs.
- Health & Safety: A registered nurse is on-site at all times to address any medical needs, and all dietary restrictions are communicated to YMCA staff well in advance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Give the adults in your life the opportunity to experience new adventures, build independence, and forge incredible friendships in a safe and welcoming camp setting!
Cost: $375
Scholarships are available for eligible families. To apply for a Camp and/or Retreat “Angel Guyeska” Scholarship, please go to the camp registration site, create an account, and fill out the application form located in the “Camper/Participant Information” section under Financial Assistance.
