Mission Statement

Special People Camp is a ministry where God breaks down barriers and opens doors for special needs adults.

History

Several special needs adults earnestly requested to go to camp.

"Why can't we go to camp like the little kids?" They asked.

From that request, Special People Camp was born.

The Palestine District Superintendent, a Methodist pastor, and a layperson coordinated with Lakeview Methodist Conference Center to hold the first camp in the fall of 1992. The first camp hosted 12 delighted campers. In the 30 years since, hundreds of special needs adults have enjoyed worshipping, fishing and making friends at Special People Camp.

See Special People Camp brochure by clicking here

Theme for 2025 Camp – The Importance of Actions over Words

"Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about You." - 1st Peter 5:7 NLV

Special People Camp, Inc. will be Tuesday, October 14 through Thursday October 16, 2025.  

It will be a time of worship, music and singing, fellowship, enjoying old friends and making new friends. Campers will be able to enjoy activities such as making crafts, talent shows, games and “Silent” Disco Dance to name a few.  They will also enjoy outside activities such as carriage rides, campfire and water activities like fishing and canoeing. 

Registered Nurse and staff will be on site to monitor medication distribution and treat minor cuts and scrapes.  Incidents will be documented by nursing staff and reported to Lakeview Conference Center and guardians/parents.

Note: TOBACCO, VAPING DEVICES, ALCOHOL AND ILLEGAL DRUGS ARE PROHIBITED AT SPECIAL PEOPLE CAMP.

Camper Qualifications:  

• Campers must be 18 years of age
• Able to feed, bathe and dress themselves and tend to their own toilet needs
• Not prone to violent rages or outbursts.
• Able to function with other campers and camp staff.

Counselor/Program Staff Qualifications:  

• Must be 18 years of age
• Pass criminal history check
• Pastoral reference as to character and temperament for Special People Camp
• No health issues that would prevent fulfilling Counselor/Program Staff responsibilities.

Want to know more about participating in Special People Camp?

Click on Campers or Counselors/Program Staff Tab

Cost of Camp

Regular Registration (ends September 1, 2025): $225.00

Late Registration:  September 2 through September 22, 2025: $250.00

Admittance is conditional upon Registrar and Camp Director approval of application and available space.

All registrants (Campers and Counselors) will be contacted confirming camp attendance upon receipt of registration forms and payment.

Refunds

Refund requests will be made in full up to September 1, 2025.  

All other refunds will be ½ the tuition.

In the event of a declared emergency, all registration fees will be refunded in full.

Scholarships

Limited scholarships are available for campers and counselors based on need and availability.

For more information contact Mike Beaty: (903) 288-3154

How to Register

Continue to apply online below, or print the application and mail to the Registrar. 

Mike Beaty

C/O Special People Camp

1684 VZ CR 2403

Canton, Texas 75103

You may pay online or send a check or money order to the Registrar with your printed application.

Coming to camp with a friend?

You can now choose them as a roommate! Be sure to indicate them on your application.

What do you need to bring with you to Camp?

Packing List

• Pillow, twin sized bed sheets or sleeping bag, blanket
• Towel, wash cloth, soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb/brush, deodorant    
• Shaving gear for men
• Comfortable clothes for 3 days (no dress up clothes needed), light jacket, rain gear.  
•  Comfortable walking shoes.
• Items needed to participate in the Talent Show.

Photography

By registering for Special People Camp, you give permission for your camper or yourself to be photographed for group keepsakes and publicity for Special People Camp. Inc.

When registration opens, scroll down and click an application. It will open in a new tab.  If you do not wish to fill it out on your computer, download it first.