Camp Rising Sun was founded in 2006 by a group of parents and professionals who wanted a summer camp experience for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the state of New Mexico. In 2009, Camp Rising Sun became a part of the Autism programs at the University of New Mexico Center for Development and Disability.

Residential camps are designed specifically for individuals with ASD between the ages of 8 and 13. An adolescent camp is provided for those individuals with ASD between the ages of 14 and 17.

Camp Rising Sun provides an inclusive summer camp environment that includes typically developing same-age peers.

Camp activities include swimming, hiking, sports, arts & crafts, games, kayaking, horseback riding, music, drama, campfires, hayrides, a ropes course, and friendship building activities.

Kayaking is a really great experience. It not only introduces the girls to a new skill but shows them they can accomplish something they probably thought they would never be capable of.

Kristen Thome  -  Troop #1623, Juniors, Albuquerque, NM

I would wholeheartedly recommend this course. I would also recommend they have several adults in the water, and several "shore-side" as there seemed to be more things to do that I would have expected. Not only for the girls' confidence, but helping turn around the kayaks, getting the girls in and out, etc. 

Kathleen Tighe-Smith  -  Troop #10228, Brownies, Albuquerque, NM

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