Camp Riley empowers children with physical disabilities by providing enriching, life-changing experiences in a traditional camping environment tailored to their individual needs. For 58 years, campers have shattered perceived limitations, met new friends and reached higher achievements, allowing them to return home with an increased sense of independence and confidence.
“Choose Your Own Adventure” is the theme for Camp Riley in 2013. Online applications to secure a spot for Camp Riley are available at RileyKids.org/Camp. April 15 is the application deadline.
The staff-to-camper ratio never exceeds 1-to-3. Children can attend one of five Camp Riley sessions offered during a six-week span. Sessions offer camaraderie and thrills through swimming, hiking, horseback riding, vertical climbing, canoeing, art projects and other activities. New families may also attend Newcomer’s Day on Saturday, May 25 to learn more about Camp Riley. RileyKids.org also offers an online photo gallery showcasing camp activities.
Camp Riley takes place at Bradford Woods, Indiana University’s outdoor recreation center located 20 miles southwest of Indianapolis (in Martinsville, Ind.). In 2012, 238 campers enrolled in Camp Riley, representing 53 Indiana counties and five states: Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan and Ohio. Since 1955, Camp Riley has been a “home away from home” to more than 12,000 children.
Riley Children’s Foundation subsidizes the majority of each child’s camper fee. The fee families are asked to pay is determined on a sliding scale related to household income. In 2010, 36 percent of Camp Riley families qualified for a reduced camper fee. Families are also encouraged to raise money to send their child to Camp Riley. Donors interested in providing the Camp Riley experience to Indiana children with the gift of a campership should contact Riley Children’s Foundation.
Questions should be directed to Riley Children’s Foundation at 1-877-867-4539 or [email protected].
2013 Camp Riley Theme: “Choose Your Own Adventure!”
Nature explorations, artistic creations, waterfront quests, musical journeys, and expeditions on horseback! Come explore the outdoors and discover endless possibilities for fun and excitement at Bradford Woods. Join us and make your own adventure this summer at Camp Riley 2013!
Newcomer’s Day
Saturday, May 25, 2013
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Newcomer’s Day lets new campers and families do a “trial run” with a visit to Camp Riley at Bradford Woods. Camp families can see the facilities and property, experience camp activities, attend parent informational sessions, discussions and activities, and join a question-and-answer session with camp staff.
Camp Riley offers five levels of camp programming:
Riley 2
June 16 – 21, 2013 (Ages 8-18)
This one-week session is for campers who benefit from a 1-to-2 staff-to-camper ratio. Be prepared to have the time of your life!
Kan-Du
June 30 – July 5, 2013 (Ages 8-18)
This session is specifically designed for youth with cognitive and physical functioning levels assessed between 0 and 48 months and who thrive in a 1-to-1 staff-to-camper ratio.
Riley 1
July 7 – 12, 2013 (Ages 8-18)
This session is for campers who benefit from a 1-to-1 staff-to-camper ratio. Be prepared for an exhilarating adventure like none other.
Riley 3
July 14 – 26, 2013 (Ages 8-18)
This two-week session is specifically designed for campers who are ready for a longer camp experience and thrive in a 1-to-3 staff-to-camper ratio.
Venture
July 14 – 26, 2013 (Ages 14-18)
This two-week session is for older campers who are ready for a longer camp experience and thrive in a 1-to-3 staff-to-camper ratio.
Riley Specialty Camps
Riley Hospital for Children sponsors specialty camps that also take place at Bradford Woods, home of Camp Riley. The specialty camps are supported by Riley Children’s Foundation, but coordinated through their clinics at the hospital.
Camp Hi-Lite
June 2 – 7, 2013
Youth ages 8-22 with Down Syndrome
This one-week session is coordinated by the Ann Whitehall Down Syndrome Program, a part of the Developmental Pediatric Clinic. Campers experience traditional camp activities in a fully accessible environment, as they increase their social skills and reach new levels of independence. Contact Marsie Harrington at 317.944.4264 for more information.
Camp About Face
June 16 – 21, 2013
Youth ages 8-18 with Craniofacial Anomalies
One of the only summer camps in the country designed for children that have been born with a cleft palate or lip as well as other anomalies of the face and skull. This one-week session, coordinated by the Cranial Facial Clinic, encourages campers to become less self-conscious and more self-confident in a setting that is fun for everyone. Contact Carol Ritter or Trish Severns at 317.274.2489 for more information.
Camp Independence
July 28 – August 2, 2013
Youth ages 8-18 with Blood Diseases (Sickle Cell Anemia, Hemophilia, etc.)
During this one-week session coordinated by the Hematology and Oncology Clinic, campers learn how to manage their chronic health condition while maintaining an active outdoor lifestyle. Campers have the opportunity to experience traditional camp activities, such as horseback riding, swimming, sports, arts, and campouts; all while having medical personal available 24-hours a day. Contact Andy Harner at 317.944.0115 for more information.