Camps & Recreation

At Barber National Institute, we believe that every person deserves the chance to experience the simple joys of summer camp and recreation – laughter filled with friends, exploring new interests, and creating memories that last.

Our camps welcome children, teens, and adults with intellectual disabilities and autism, providing safe and engaging opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun. Whether it’s swimming, arts and crafts, bicycle riding, games, or enjoying time outdoors, each activity is designed to encourage independence while ensuring the support and care each person needs to thrive.

Camps We Offer

 

Camp Shamrock

Camp Shamrock is a recreational day camp for those 6-21 with an intellectual disability or autism diagnosis.

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Camp Connections

Camp Connections is a recreational day camp for those 5-18 with an autism diagnosis.

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Camp Expanding Social Opportunities

ESO Adult Summer Day Camp is a recreational day camp for those 18+ with an intellectual disability or autism diagnosis.

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Learn to Ride Bike Camp

A progressive, innovative program that encourages creativity, self-direction, positive peer interactions and communication.

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Camp and Recreation Programs Offered Through

Erie Campus Entrance
Barber National Institute Main Campus
100 Barber Place
Erie, PA 16507
BNIErie@barberni.org
(814) 453-7661
(814) 455-1132
 

Referral and Eligibility for Camp and Recreation Programs

  • Camp Shamrock is an allowable service of Family Support Services, Agency with Choice, or private pay.
  • Camp Connections is offered free of charge to Erie County residents with an autism diagnosis. Space is limited and an application is required.
  • Camp ESO is an allowable service of Family Support Services, Agency with Choice, or private pay.
  • Learn to Ride Bike Camp is presented free of charge to families through a grant from the Dr. Gertrude A. Barber Foundation. Spaces is limited and an application is required.

My grandchild didn’t have many friends before this, never went out of his shell. He never would have gone on stage and performed with friends before this summer.

Grandfather
Camp Shamrock