Fort Valley, GA
Each morning, cabins rotate through different activities led by our expert Activity Leaders. Every session is adapted for all abilities, so everyone belongs. Every schedule is designed with flexibility, visual structure, and support so campers can participate at their own pace.
Explore on the camp’s website ↗"I just love being here at Camp Big Heart, I feel like I'm at home, this is my form of respite." – Logan (Camper)
"I have been coming to CBH for the last 8 years and I have been a unit leader for the last 7 years. Being a Unit Leader has been one of the best decisions I ever made! You get to connect and grow a relationship with each of your campers, but you also have a second family. I have grown to love and help every single one of my campers! I always look forward to camp every year!" – Kyndall, Unit Leader
Each June, Camp Big Heart hosts two one-week overnight sessions at Camp John Hope FFA-FCCLA Center in Fort Valley, Georgia, overlooking Lake Lassiter. The camp center is approximately 100 miles from Atlanta, 80 miles from Columbus or Albany, 45 miles from Americus, and 30 miles from Macon.
"Camp is a place like none other. Over the years, I've formed lifelong friendships with staff, volunteers, and campers alike. It truly feels like family, and together we create something so special every session — a space where everyone belongs, is celebrated, and can thrive. Every decision we make is for the campers; our goal is always to provide them with the best, safest, most joyful experience possible, almost like a vacation where they can just be themselves and explore their potential." – Jaclyn Boyce, Support Staff, CBH since 2009; 15 years teaching special education in Gwinnett County
"Camp Big Heart has been life-changing for our daughter Ily on the autism spectrum. The camp gave her incredible tools for taking trips, independence, and self confidence. She had an amazing adventure and couldn't wait to put it on her visual calendar for next year. We're so grateful to Camp Big Heart for an experience we never knew existed and for the wonderful friendships she created." – Tiffany Kearney (Parent)
A full day at Camp Big Heart moves from morning routines and breakfast in the dining hall — with music and dancing — through cabin rotations of activities led by Activity Leaders (cooking, art & crafts, STEM, games), to lunch and a rest period, then camp-wide afternoon activities including pool time, archery, water park fun, and boating. Evenings bring themed events: Monday is Carnival Night, Tuesday is Wacky Olympics, Wednesday is the Talent Show, and Thursday is a Dance Party with glow lights and music.
Explore on the camp’s website ↗"I absolutely love being an activity leader at Camp Big Heart because it gives me the chance to combine my skills as a special education teacher with my passion for creating unique and meaningful experiences for people with disabilities. There's something so fun about designing activities that are not only fun but also tailored to the individual needs of each camper. The positive, uplifting atmosphere at Camp Big Heart is contagious; every year, I'm excited to return to a place where everyone — staff, volunteers, and campers alike — are truly happy to be there, working together to create unforgettable memories. It's a place that feels like home." – Ryn, Activity Leader
Explore on the camp’s website ↗Cabins are thoughtfully organized by age and gender so everyone feels comfortable. Inside, you'll find a group of campers ready to become your new friends, staff members who will support you all week, and a cozy bunk setup — campers get the bottom bunks! You also meet the people who keep camp running: activity leaders, support staff, directors, and nurses who are available 24/7 for medications and health needs. You're in safe hands from the very first moment.
Read more on the camp’s website ↗"I love getting to be a lifeguard because I get to keep everyone safe while ensuring everyone is having fun at Camp Big Heart. I come back to camp every year because I am able to give the opportunity of summer camp to individuals who might not have this opportunity without Camp Big Heart. My favorite memory is when a camper signed 'Don't Stop Believing'." – Connor Fender, Lifeguard
Read more on the camp’s website ↗Camp doesn't happen without a seasoned medical team on duty. During camp sessions, there are always registered nurses on site to manage medications and health needs, provide first aid and respond to emergencies, and communicate with families and caregivers when needed. Our medical staff will store prescribed medications in the medical lodge. Our counselors will bring campers to the medical lodge for their meds as needed.
Read more on the camp’s website ↗On-site medical team: there are always three or more registered nurses on duty during camp sessions. Clear guidelines are in place for medication, behavior support, and personal care. Team-based staffing means you always have support and a supervisor to turn to.
Read more on the camp’s website ↗