FAQ

Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page. We're glad you want to learn more about us! Below are some common questions we have been asked, along with their answers. Contact Us if there are any other questions we can help answer for you.
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What is the history of the Down Syndrome Foundation?

The Down Syndrome Foundation was founded in 2000 by a group of parents who wanted to develop a camp for young adults with Down syndrome. The sole purpose of the Down Syndrome Foundation is to support the Down Syndrome Camp. The Board of Directors are all volunteers and have a passion in offering a quality, safe, memorable camp experience. All funding from the Down Syndrome Foundation goes directly towards the benefit of operating the Down Syndrome Camp.

Where is the Down Syndrome Camp held?

Down Syndrome Camp is held at Camp Knutson, an ACA accredited camp, in Crosslake, MN. Camp Knutson is a 30-acre facility on the peninsula of Trout and Lower Whitefish Lakes. This non-denominational facility is a service of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota whose sole intent is to provide summer camps for people with medical and special needs. The facility has modern air-conditioned male and female cabins and bathrooms. Meals are served in a group dining room. Visit Camp Knutson at http://www.lssmn.org/camp.

What activities are available at camp?

Activities include swimming, boating, horseback riding, fishing, arts/crafts, nature, sports facilities, basketball, playground, trust course challenge, scavenger hunts, and music. Each night an activity is held for the campers such as a bowling party, hayride, hoedown, carnival/inflatables and a prom which is a highlight for all campers!

How is the camp staffed?

Most of our staff are college-age students who have an interest in individuals with Down syndrome or special needs. The majority of our staff comes from recommendations by leadership or other staff. Each staff member attends training on camp policies, Down syndrome abilities and discusses/reviews each camper’s specific applications. Camp Knutson also has full-time staff that coordinates and facilitates all camp activities.

What is the schedule for a typical day at camp?

7:15-7:30 – Wake Up
8:00 – Breakfast
8:30 – Ice Breaker Games/Announcements
9:00-11:30 – Morning Activities (Horseback Riding, Fishing/Boating, Arts/Crafts, Archery, Canoeing, Paddle Boats, Team Building, Scavenger Hunts)
12:00 – Lunch
12:30-2:15 – Open Activities
2:30-4:30 – Open Waterfront (Tubing, Swimming, Canoes, Paddle boats, Water Skiing)
5:30 – Dinner
6:30-9:00 – Evening Activities (Bowling, Inflatables, Theme Night, Prom)
9:00-10:00 – Lights Out

What is the application process?
Parents in our database with receive an email from us with information on the registration process. The registration takes place online, and the deadlines will be noted. A camp acceptance letter will be sent confirming acceptance.
How do you deal with medications?
All campers are required to complete all medical forms and authorizations. At check-in, you will meet with the health care staff to go over any health needs and/or medications. All medications, over the counter medications and vitamins, must be kept and dispensed by the health care staff.
Are cell phones or other electronic devices allowed?
No, not unless discussed and noted for a specific reason. We want all campers to interact with other campers and staff, experience new activities and opportunities. We do not want screens to interfere with the camp experience.
When is check-in and check-out?

This information is contained in the camper confirmation packet. 

What should we pack?

The packing list will vary from camp to camp and can also be vary depending on the forecast. Please visit our Preparing for Camp page for a list of some must haves. Additional information is provided in the camper confirmation packet.

What is the camp cancellation policy?
Cancellations received within five weeks or less from the start date of Camp will forfeit the full fee. Special circumstances can be discussed.