Our Summer Camp Program Benefits our Campers in more than one way!
At Camp Grace Bentley, everyday activities naturally support health and well-being in ways many people don’t even realize. Arts and crafts strengthen fine-motor skills, hand-eye coordination, focus, and independence, while movement-based activities like swimming, walking the grounds, games, and outdoor recreation improve balance, mobility, endurance, and overall physical fitness. Time in nature reduces stress, builds confidence, and supports emotional wellness — all while campers are simply having fun with friends. Many of our adult campers lovingly say they aren’t “going to camp,” they’re “going on vacation” or “going to the resort,” and we cherish that, because meaningful growth and therapeutic benefits happen here in a joyful, relaxed, vacation-like environment.
Why Choose Camp Grace Bentley?
Since 1928, Camp Grace Bentley has proudly operated on the same beautiful lakeside property in Burtchville, Michigan, making us the state’s oldest camp dedicated to individuals with special needs. Named in honor of our generous benefactor, Grace Bentley, the camp continues her legacy of inclusion, compassion, and joy.
Camp Grace Bentley attracts campers from across the nation for our exceptional care, adaptive programs, and endless fun. From lakeside adventures to arts, sports, and community-building activities, every camper is supported in a safe, nurturing, and unforgettable environment.
We pride our self in safety and standards.
Camp Grace Bentley is licensed by the State of Michigan to operate both children’s and adult camp programs and adheres to rigorous safety and quality standards. Our facilities and operations undergo multiple inspections each year by various governing agencies to ensure full compliance. We are also a contracted provider with Community Mental Health organizations throughout Michigan. Above all, we pride ourselves on creating a safe, welcoming, and fun environment where every camper can thrive.
Cost of Camp
The cost for Camp Grace Bentley is $950 for a weeklong session, running from Friday at 3:00 PM through Sunday at 3:00 PM. While we gladly accept private-pay arrangements, many families choose to utilize respite funding through their local Community Mental Health (CMH) provider. We also accept payments from Easterseals/MORC, The Arc, Life Skills, and other organizations that offer funding.
If you need assistance coordinating funding, please don’t hesitate to reach out, our team is happy to help facilitate the process.
Each year we receive a limited number of donation-supported camp scholarships to assist families in need. If you would like to apply, please contact us for the scholarship application and eligibility details.
Activities at Camp Grace Bentley
At Camp Grace Bentley, every activity is designed to be fun, inclusive, and adaptive so campers of all abilities can participate, succeed, and enjoy meaningful experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
Outdoor & Recreation
Lakefront swimming and beach time with trained lifeguards and accessible entry supports
In-ground heated pool with adaptive swim options
Fishing from accessible docks
Nature walks & outdoor exploration - garden walks with the Lakeshore Garden Club
Sports & recreation including basketball, kickball, lawn games, and field activities
Accessible playground features — including wheelchair-friendly swings so every camper can join the fun
Creative & Enrichment Activities
Arts & crafts studio — painting, drawing, beadwork, ceramics, and themed projects
Music & movement activities — singing, rhythm instruments, and dance
Drama & theater — skits, talent shows, and expressive play
STEM and sensory-based activities tailored to camper needs
Special Experiences
Therapy dogs visit every session, offering comfort, joy, and positive emotional support for campers
Campfires and sing-alongs
Evening programs and themed dances every Thursday.
Accessibility & Support in Every Activity
Activities are adapted for physical, intellectual, and sensory needs
Staff provide hands-on assistance, encouragement, and close supervision
Participation is flexible — campers are supported, never pressured
Our goal is to ensure every camper can safely enjoy camp life, build confidence, make friends, and create wonderful memories in a fun, respectful, and compassionate environment.
Meals, Snacks & Dietary Accommodations
At Camp Grace Bentley, we believe that nutritious, comforting food is an important part of the camp experience. Our kitchen team prepares three home-cooked meals each day from scratch, along with regular snacks throughout the day and evening.
Our kitchen is able to accommodate many dietary modifications to our menu, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options when noted in the intake application. We will provide families with a session menu in advance so needs can be reviewed ahead of time.
If a camper has dietary requirements that cannot be fully met through our menu or available substitutions, families may choose to provide approved supplemental or alternative food items. Our staff will work with you to ensure these items can be stored and served safely.
Our goal is to ensure every camper remains safe, supported, and well-nourished while enjoying the full camp experience.
