YMCA Camp Independence
Camp Independence is a special place for children and young adults with spina bifida and other neurological disabilities. The camp program is designed to teach life skills, foster independence, build confidence, teach leadership and increase self-esteem.
Located near Fox Lake in northern Illinois, Camp Independence offers one-week residential camp sessions in the summer and weekend retreats September through April.
Camp Facilities
The camp is situated on 300 acres, and a 90-acre, semi-private lake called Fish Lake. The Camp Independence building is a state-of-the-art facility with two dormitory-style sleeping rooms, several fully-accessible bathrooms, and a full basement for activities and storm shelter. Meals are served in the beautiful Great Room or in the main lodge. Campers will enjoy three nutritionally balanced, “camper friendly” meals daily and an evening snack. A five-station high ropes course, indoor Olympic size swimming pool, large sport fields, kayaks, basketball courts, campfire ring, and a 48-ft climbing tower are a part of the exciting program and facilities.
Programs
Camp Independence offers many different activities that promote confidence, cooperation and best of all, are loads of fun! Sessions are divided by age group, allowing the staff to provide age-appropriate programming. Some activities might include:
| Swimming | Arts and Crafts | Hockey |
| Boating | Campfire | Tye-dying |
| High Ropes | Basketball | Bocce Ball |
| Climbing Tower | Hayrides | Drama |
| Group Games | Singing | Team Building |
Camper Health and Safety
The health and safety of every camper is our highest priority. Camp staff monitor campers’ health and will work side by side with the nursing staff.
Camp Independence is accredited by the American Camp Association which means our camp meets or exceeds camping industry standards for excellence in programs, staff and facilities.
Camp Independence
at YMCA Camp Duncan
32405 North Highway 12
Ingleside, IL 60041
phone: 847.546.8086