Quest's Camp Thunderbird - A Real Summer Camp Experience for People with Special Needs

Since 1969, Quest’s Camp Thunderbird has been dedicated to providing a real summer camp experience for people with special needs. Because of the physical and behavioral challenges associated with Down syndrome, autism, mental retardation, Cerebral Palsy and other developmental disabilities, these children and adults aren't typically eligible to attend traditional camps. Camp Thunderbird is their chance to learn new skills and focus on the remarkable things they can do, while making new friends and unforgettable memories.

In addition to providing each camper with an outstanding experience, Camp Thunderbird’s six- and 12-day overnight sessions also give parents and guardians a much-needed break from the demands of 24-hour caregiving. For many families, this respite is their first chance to relax, spend time with friends, or even take a vacation knowing that their loved one is receiving quality care and attention.

Camp Group Photo

Activities

Each summer, nearly 400 campers of all ages have the time of their lives participating in Camp Thunderbird’s variety of fun activities. From camping, swimming, nature studies and arts & crafts, to canoeing, fishing, evening socials and sports & games, Camp Thunderbird offers the same adventures available at other camp programs - but in a fully-accessible environment tailored to meet the diverse needs of the campers.

Separated from their parents, many for the first time, campers of all ages begin to take on challenges that build their self-confidence and sense of independence.

Amenities

Nature Trails
Swimming Pool
Air-Conditioned Cabins
Picnic Area
Activity Center
Outdoor Amphitheater
Recreation Room
Sport Courts

Health and Safety

With certified lifeguards, nutritional meals, an on-site infirmary, 24-hour nursing supervision, and a 3:1 camper to staff ratio, Camp Thunderbird provides an atmosphere of good health and well-being.

Camp Thunderbird is also accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), which verifies that the camp complies with over 300 individual health, safety and program standards.

Staff

Each of Camp Thunderbird’s expert, compassionate staff members are carefully selected from around the globe for character, educational background, camp-related skills, and commitment to working with people with disabilities. Recruited from Camp America, we meet personally with each counselor and require detailed profiles, background checks, health forms and current references.

If you're interested in becoming a counselor at Camp Thunderbird, click the link below to fill out an online application.

Online Counselor Application


View Larger Map	Location & Contact Information Located just northwest of Orlando on the grounds of the Wekiwa Springs State Park, Camp Thunderbird's 19-acre setting offers a glimpse of a more natural Florida. Originally an area populated by the Timucuan Indians, this area is home to an abundance of wildlife including great blue herons, woodpeckers, white-tailed deer, river otters, fox, and numerous subtropical birds.
	Physical Address 909 E. Welch Road Apopka, FL 32712	Mailing Address P.O. Box 531125 Orlando, FL 32853
	ph 407.218.4300 fax 407.218.4301 e-mail Camp Thunderbird

Donate

Give the gift of unforgettable memories and experiences to a child or adult with disabilities. By making a donation to Camp Thunderbird’s Campership Program, you can make a stay at camp a reality for those whose families cannot afford to do so.

If you would like to make a financial contribution, please click here or call 407.218.4300.

If you are interested in donating your time or an item to Quest, please click here for our current volunteer projects and wish list.

Quest, Inc. | P.O. Box 531125, Orlando, FL 32853 | ph 407.218.4300 | fax 407.218.4301 | (toll free) 888.80.QUEST
A Florida not-for-profit corporation qualifying under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code.