A Camp Without Limits

Wonderland Camp provides a summer experience for children and adults with disabilities.

Summer camp is a rite of passage for many people, with late-night giggles, swimming-goggle tan lines, and chants that fill camp cabins. The Wonderland Camp in Rocky Mount opens its door for these heartfelt memories to be shared by all—no matter their ability.

For 54 years, Wonderland Camp has been providing people with disabilities an opportunity to attend an overnight camp for a six-day session during the summer. Amenities at the camp include a climbing wall, swimming pool, ropes course, miniature golf course, basketball court, playground, treehouse, and giant swing, each designed to be accessible to every camper. So whether a camper is crafting, singing karaoke, tie-dyeing, paddleboarding, or fishing, each activity is catered to their individual needs while safety precautions are considered.

“Many campers meet people at camp and make lifelong friends,” says Mike Clayton, director of fund development and communications for the camp. “We have some campers that have been coming to our camp for 20 or 30 years. They come every year.” A stay at the camp includes meals, air-conditioned cabins, laundry services, and a view of the sparkling Lake of the Ozarks.

The Wonderland Camp staff includes clinical personnel, such as a licensed practical nurse and master’s prepared nurse; administration who are college educated and have experience in caring for people with disabilities; certified lifeguards; and about 125 camp counselors and additional staff. The on-site clinical personnel are able to administer medication and accommodate dietary needs.

“It’s very rewarding to the people that work here,” Mike says. “I think they get as much out of the experience as our campers do.”

The camp counselors, paid positions that include room and board, are required to be at least 15 years old. Additionally, people 15 and older can apply to be assistant counselors, which are daytime positions. All counselors are screened through an intensive interview and attend a week-long training program to ensure they know how to care for campers.

“It’s really heartwarming to see the smiles and the laughter and the high fives that our campers give our counselors,” Mike says.

The campers start from age six, and there’s no maximum age. “Some of our campers are in their 80s. So it’s a really neat experience to see all the different age groups of people that we serve here at the camp,” Mike says. The camp is a not-for-profit, but it does not receive federal or state dollars. It requires camp fees and donations in order to maintain its extensive services, staff, and individualized care, Mike says. Summer camp sessions are $1,050 per camper.

“When you can bring your camper to camp and leave them with us, you can rest assured that we will keep them safe and sound and happy, well fed, and taken care of. That way you can go enjoy a bit of a respite,” Mike says.

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This article was originally published in the June 2025 edition of Missouri Life.

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These photos are a courtesy of Wonderland Camp.