Quests Camp Thunderbird Florida
Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2009/02/04 - Updated: 2020/04/06
Category Topic: Disability Camps - Academic Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main
Synopsis: Since 1969, Quest's Camp Thunderbird has been dedicated to providing recreational programs for adults with developmental disabilities. Age-specific programming ensures that all the unique recreational and developmental needs of the participants are met.
Introduction
The physical and behavioral challenges associated with Down syndrome, autism, Cerebral Palsy and other developmental disabilities often limit opportunities to relax, socialize and have fun. This is their chance to learn new skills and focus on the remarkable things they can do, while making new friends and unforgettable memories.
Main Content
Quest's Camp Thunderbird's six-day overnight sessions provide parents and guardians a 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.
Age-specific programming ensures that all the unique recreational and developmental needs of the participants are met.
Each summer, nearly 400 camp guests 18 and over 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, archery, evening socials and sports and 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 camp guests.
Separated from their parents, many for the first time, attendees begin to take on challenges that build their self-confidence and sense of independence.
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.
On-site amenities include:
- Activity Center
- Thunder Café
- Air-conditioned Cabins
- Swimming Pool
- Amphitheatre
- Archery Range
- Basketball Court
- GaGa Ball Court
- Human Foosball
- Playground
- Outdoor Activity Pavilions
- Volleyball Court
- Nature Trails
- Picnic Areas
Camp Thunderbird is also accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), which verifies that the camp complies with health, safety and program standards. Visit their website for more information at Quest.Inc.org/play or email them at campthunderbird@questinc.org
Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.