Learn more about Camp Paivika. Watch our video.

“When I think of my many blessings and the best things that my mother and father ever gave me, Camp Paivika comes to mind…. If you are tired of letting your disability define you, if you just want to meet some amazing people or need help on your journey of self-discovery, Camp Paivika is the ideal place.” — Michael Griggs, Camp Paivika camper since 1997

One of the first fully-accessible camps in the United States, AbilityFirst’s Camp Paivika in the San Bernardino National Forest offers year-round camp programs for children, teens and adults with mild to severe physical and developmental disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and epilepsy. Programs include all of the traditional activities of camping: horseback riding, archery, swimming, cookouts and campfires, arts and crafts, and nature hikes and activities, as well as fine arts. Watch the Camp Paivika video and read our brochure to see and hear how camping has changed and enhanced the lives of individuals of all ages.

In addition, individualized health and well-being necessities and regimens are provided. These include personal care and hygiene (toileting, brushing teeth, combing hair, showering), dietary and eating assistance (food prep, diabetic, special eating equipment), medications and medical care (seizures, nursing assistance, catheterization, g-tube), redirecting inappropriate or self-destructive behaviors, ambulatory assistance (wheelchairs/walkers/canes) and communication (non-verbal, sign language, special device), among others.

Camp Paivika has been welcoming campers since 1947 and is fully accredited by the American Camping Association. Set in the mountains amid majestic tall pines in a beautiful National Forest, the camp can accommodate 72 campers each session. The 12-acre facility includes five dormitories, health care center, staff quarters, craft center, nature study center, amphitheater and fire ring, swimming pool, horse stables and a main lodge with a large recreation room and dining hall.

Paivika (Pi-vee-ka) is the word for “dawn” in the language of the Cahuilla Native Americans who formerly inhabited the area where the camp is located.