Camp Crinkleroot
Now in its seventeeth year, Camp Crinkleroot serves children ages 8–14 who have an autism diagnosis or a similar developmental disorder. The camp is offered in the spring and focuses on having fun with peers in a traditional camp setting.
The goal of Camp Crinkleroot is to provide engaging, supportive activities tailored specifically for kids on the autism spectrum, while also offering meaningful respite for caregivers. All activities are intentionally designed to meet the developmental needs of the campers. Friendship-building remains a core component, with every camper paired 1:1 with an App State student and supported through small-group activities that encourage connection and social inclusion.
Camp Staff
At Camp Crinkleroot, trained App State volunteers and faculty make every moment fun!
Each camper gets a one-on-one counselor buddy for the day. Together, they’ll enjoy games, arts and crafts, group challenges, and seasonal favorites—like spring campfires and recreational activities.
Every activity is adapted to ensure every camper has a safe, exciting, and unforgettable weekend adventure!
Volunteer Application
We are looking for current App State students to help staff Camp Crinkleroot!
Individual students can serve as one-to-one buddies for campers or choose to be assigned to plan and lead activites. Groups can plan and lead activites as well.
We welcome you to contact Heidi Tait at taithr@appstate.edu to learn more about how you and/or you group can work with our wonderful campers!
More information about specific volunteer roles can be found on the Volunteer Form.
Camp Crinkleroot is a day camp for children on the Autism Spectrum or with a similar disorder, sponsored by Appalachian State University’s Appalachian Institute for Health and Wellness.
Camp Information
Spring Camp
Ages: 8-14
Dates: March 19 – 21, 2027
Friday March 19, 5:30-7:00pm: Family Potluck
Saturday March 20, 2027: most of the day
Sunday March 21, 2027: afternoon
Spring Camp Crinkleroot is a weekend full of adventure for kids ages 8–14! It’s all about making friends, trying new activities, and experiencing a taste of traditional summer camp. Campers can sing silly camp songs, perform wacky skits, team up for exciting group games, enjoy lots of free play!
Got siblings? Bring them along! While kids are laughing, exploring, and making memories, parents get a little well-deserved time off. It’s a win-win!
For more information, please submit this form!
Deadline to apply: February 19, 2027
Flyer coming soon!
Location and Contact Information
Spring Camp Crinkleroot Location
Camp Broadstone
Appalachian State University
1431 Broadstone Rd,
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Contact
For questions or more information about Camp Crinkleroot, please reach out to Mary Sheryl Horine at 828-262-7557 or horinems@appstate.edu.