Discover the Magic of the Wisconsin Lions Camp
I recently had the absolute pleasure of touring the Wisconsin Lions Camp with Camp Director Andrea and our very own Mark from the playhouse, who has been a counselor at the camp in previous years. From the moment we arrived, I was in complete awe. Andrea was incredibly welcoming, knowledgeable, and passionate, and I am so thankful for the personal, in-depth tour she provided. Seeing firsthand the care, planning, and heart that goes into every aspect of this camp was truly inspiring.
Wisconsin Lions Camp is located on 440 acres of beautiful land in central Wisconsin, surrounding its own private 45-acre lake. The setting alone is breathtaking, but what makes this camp truly special is its mission to serve individuals with disabilities in a safe, inclusive, and empowering overnight environment. Each week during the summer, the camp serves approximately 150 campers through specialized sessions.
Of particular interest to our GiGi’s Playhouse families are the weeks designed specifically for youth and young adults with intellectual disabilities and autism. These sessions support campers in building independence, confidence, and meaningful friendships. The camp also offers dedicated weeks for individuals with epilepsy, diabetes, blindness or visual impairment, and those who are deaf or hard of hearing, ensuring that campers are surrounded by peers and staff who understand their unique needs.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Wisconsin Lions Camp is that it is completely free to attend. There is only a $25 registration fee thanks to generous Lions Club support and donors. The registration is opening this week. Camp sessions run Sunday through Thursday, and this is a true overnight camp experience.
The staff-to-camper ratio is approximately one adult to every six campers, ensuring individualized attention and support. Campers must meet eligibility requirements such as, being able to manage basic self-care needs such as toileting, dressing, bathing, and eating. Age requirements do vary by session. Youth sessions serve campers ages 10–17, while a special young adult session (ages 18–25) is available by invitation, creating continued community beyond youth years.
The on-site Medical Lodge handles all medication administration and includes two exam rooms and six isolation rooms. There are a minimum of two nurses on staff 24/7, along with additional staff who are certified EMT responders. The camp can accommodate a wide range of medically complex campers, and the cabins are thoughtfully designed with plug-ins near each headboard to support medical equipment safely and comfortably.
Campers enjoy a wide variety of activities, including swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, arts and crafts, archery, climbing, ropes courses, field games, environmental education, and more. Meals are served buffet-style, allowing campers to choose what they want to eat and practice self-advocacy, and the kitchen can accommodate most food allergies.
Wisconsin Lions Camp also offers open houses and scheduled tours throughout the year, giving families the opportunity to explore the grounds, cabins, dining hall, and medical facilities before applying.
Wisconsin Lions Camp is more than just a summer getaway — it’s a transformative experience that celebrates abilities, builds independence, and creates lasting friendships. For GiGi’s Playhouse families, this camp is a truly amazing resource worth exploring.
Recent Posts
