Camp You Be You

It’s important that every child feel special, and a child with autism is no different. At Camp You be You, we promote positive self-esteem with fun and learning. We give every child the chance to experience camp, build friendships and make memories to last a lifetime.

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Camp You Be You

Camp You Be You is a week-long sleepaway summer camp for kids ages 8 to 18 with autism who are verbally fluent and can complete self-care skills independently (ex. bathing, dressing, etc.). Camp allows for children with autism to participate in traditional camp activities in an accepting and supportive environment. Our camps rely on generous donor support to make camp possible and every dollar counts.

Volunteers are essential to our camps. Many Children's employees and other community volunteers give their time and talents to ensure that our campers have a safe and memorable experience. With a dedicated team of medical professionals, cabin counselors and other support staff, parents can rest assured that their child is in good hands. Our licensed medical professionals provide around-the-clock, on-site care the entire week of camp.

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Registration is closed for this camp.
Camper spaces for Summer 2026 have been filled. Complete our Camper Interest Form to join the mailing list and receive information about Summer 2027 registration.

Information for You be You Campers

General Camp (ages 8 to 18)

General camp is for children ages 8 to 18 who are able to function with a 5-to-1 camper to adult ratio. Daily activities include archery, swimming, rock climbing, boating, etc. with an evening program every night (talent show, pool party, etc.). Campers are assigned to girls and boys cabins based on age.

Review our frequently asked questions and camper eligibility criteria below to learn more about campers who will be most successful in this setting.

Specialty Camp: Leader in Training (ages 15 to 18)

The Leaders in Training (LIT) specialty program is a unique opportunity for returning campers ages 15 to 18 to learn beginning leadership skills. LITs must apply for this program and the selection process includes an additional interview and review of prior performance at camp. LITs are assigned to younger camper cabins of the same gender and are expected to serve as role models for the cabin and assist counselors with daily tasks. LITs assist this cabin during regular camp activities for the majority of the day and participate in specialized programming and leadership training with fellow LITs for other portions of the day. If you do not think your camper is ready for this level of responsibility or your camper would not enjoy this program, please apply to general camp.

Camp Cost

The cost of camp is $250. Financial aid applications are available within the application.

Learn more and and find additional resources for campers and volunteers:

Camper Information
Volunteer Information

When

Sunday, May 31 - Friday, June 5, 2026

Location

Camp Twin Lakes - Rutledge West

1391 Keencheefoonee Rd, Rutledge, GA 30663

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Contact Information

Please contact Anna Staley or 404-785-0631 for more information

Camp You Be You Camper Eligibility Criteria

Camp You Be You is specifically designed for children with autism (diagnoses may include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Disorder) who are verbally fluent and complete self-care skills independently. As we are primarily staffed by volunteers, we are not able to support all children with autism. Children at camp must be able to function in a group setting with a 5-to-1 camper to counselor ratio. Our staff will review all applications which may include a review of additional records.

General Camp

Camper must be 8 to 18 years old.
Camper must be able to attend the full week and function with a 5-to-1 camper-to-counselor ratio. If your child’s classroom is smaller than this ratio, camp may not be a fit for them.
Camper must meet personal hygiene needs independently (getting dressed, grooming/bathing, getting ready for bed, getting ready for the daily activities, etc.).
Camper must meet the physical demands of camp (walking between activities which may be a long distance, remaining outdoors for most of the day).
Camper must be willing and able to participate in a group setting (able to transition among activities with a group, follow instructions from counselors and older campers, remain with the group, take turns, ask for help when needed, etc.).
Camper must be able to sleep in a group setting (stay in their own bed, remain quiet during the night).
Camper must be able to communicate with counselors and peers. Successful campers speak in full sentences and have emerging conversation skills.
Camper cannot have current occurrences of elopement (running away), aggressive behavior, or disruptive behavior. The camp is located in a wooded area with several trails and easy access to a lake. Camper must follow directions from staff.
Records review may include requests for documentation of a diagnosis, an IEP, a teacher form, and additional screening calls. All new campers are required to complete a one-way virtual interview and teacher form.

Leaders in Training (LIT)

LIT must be 15-18 years old at the time of camp.
LIT must have attended You Be You summer camp previously.
LIT must be ready to work in a leadership role.
The LIT is expected to assist counselors and younger campers.
LITs have a greater level of independence at camp and we have increased expectations for their behavior. LITs serve as role models for younger campers.
Prior to acceptance, LITs are required to complete a one-way virtual interview

Parent Expectations

Applications, supporting materials and payments must be submitted by due dates.
A virtual informational session will be held prior to camp. This is mandatory for all new families.

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities are available at camp?
Camp Twin Lakes offers a variety of activities including archery, a swimming pool, arts and crafts, horseback riding, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, a ropes course, a rock climbing wall, and more!

What are the camp sleeping arrangements?
Cabins consist of 12-16 beds (single and bunk beds). Campers are grouped by gender and age. Please note the age range in cabins varies every year depending on the amount of camper applications. There are 2-3 counselors in each cabin and younger cabins may also have LITs (leaders in training). Showers and bathrooms are in every cabin.

What does meal time look like?
Campers, volunteers, and staff eat in the dining hall. Campers eat at the same table as their cabin. Meals are served family style. The kitchen provides alternatives for dietary and allergy restrictions upon request.

How many campers attend?
There are around 50 general campers including a few LITs.

How are campers supported?
The majority of our cabin counselors are community volunteers (18 years or older). Camp is also supported by staff and medical professionals from the Marcus Autism Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and Camp Twin Lakes.

How are medications managed?
All medications are turned into the camp medical staff. Medications are distributed at designated times at the med lodge.

What is the cost of camp?
The cost of camp is $375. Financial aid applications are available. We also currently accept family support funds from Bobby Dodd Institute (BDI), Georgia Community Support and Solutions, and New Horizons Behavioral Health.

What does a typical camp day look like?