Camp Dunnabeck
Our mission is to reveal and illuminate the strengths of individuals with dyslexic or language-based learning differences.
2026 Program Transition Update
After careful consideration and a thorough exploration of options, Kildonan’s Camp Dunnabeck will pause operations for the 2026 season while we consider our path forward, including a new physical location. This decision reflects both economic and mission-related considerations, as well as our commitment to ensuring the excellence families expect from Camp Dunnabeck.
Throughout our 70-year history, we’ve been steadfast in our mission to create a unique summer camp experience that reveals and illuminates the strengths of individuals with dyslexia and language-based learning differences. This idea originated with our founder, the indefatigable Diana Hanbury King, and remains our North Star. With that in mind, we are charting a path that will allow the camp to continue growing in ways that honor its history and serve our families with excellence. We are optimistic about the future of Camp Dunnabeck and look forward to sharing our plans in early 2026.
Families seeking a summer camp experience designed for children with dyslexia and language-based learning differences are encouraged to explore the following programs. Each is accredited by the Orton-Gillingham Academy (OGA) and personally vetted by our team:
- Camp Spring Creek (overnight camp in Bakersville, NC)
- Durango Mountain Camp (full-day and overnight camp in Durango, CO)
- The Southport School Summer Academic Program (half-day program in Southport, CT, that partners with Wakeman Boys & Girls Club for those who want to add camp activities for a full-day experience)
We will continue operating the Kildonan Teaching Training Institute (KTTI) with Laurie Cousseau as our OGA Fellow. If you would like help finding a tutor for your child at any point, please contact us so we can tap into our KTTI network to support you.
We live for our summers with the children, and nothing brings us greater joy than seeing them return to their school environments rested, relaxed, and ready for success. It is this joy and purpose that will guide us as we embark on the next leg of our incredible journey – together.
For questions or concerns, please contact Yvonne Schutz at yschutz@kildonan.org.
Kildonan’s Camp Dunnabeck, in operations since 1955, balances one-to-one Orton-Gillingham language remediation with outstanding recreational activities for six whole weeks of school readiness and FUN! Camp is open to boys and girls ages 8 to 16 with dyslexia and language-based learning differences. We administer a pre- and post- battery of standardized and criterion-based testing that will help families gauge progress and determine readiness for school in the fall.
We pair every camper with an Orton-Gillingham practitioner for a daily 1-to-1 Language Training session. Each camper completes tutoring-based assignments in a daily study hall to reinforce concepts. When they’re not studying, campers can choose from a wide array of recreational activities and weekend excursions that tap into the natural resources of the campus and region.
The Camp Dunnabeck program balances dedicated language remediation with outstanding recreational activities. We pair every camper with an Orton-Gillingham practitioner for a 1-to-1, one-hour Language Training session. Each camper completes tutoring-based assignments in a daily study hall. When they’re not studying, campers can choose from a wide array of recreational activities and weekend excursions that tap into the natural resources of the campus and the region.
Campers return to school in the fall and discover they’re rested, relaxed, and ready for success!
Kildonan’s Camp Dunnabeck is celebrating 70 years of changing the lives of students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences.
WHY Camp Dunnabeck?
- Providing 1-to1 Orton-Gillingham instruction since 1955!
- Highly trained Orton-Gillingham practitioners
- Our OG program is diagnostic and prescriptive for each camper
- Outstanding recreational activities that foster self-confidence and independence
- Caring and supportive staff
- Professional activity leaders
- Local and international staff and counselors
- 24/7 Health Care Center
- Exceptional food menus for every diet, using locally sourced foods and our campus-grown vegetables and herbs
- Comfortable and modern dormitories
- Adventure
- A lifetime of memories!
- FUN guaranteed!
ABOUT TEAM DUNNABECK
Orton-Gillingham Practitioners
Each OG Practitioner undergoes a minimum of 70 hours of training in the Orton-Gillingham approach by Fellows of the Orton-Gillingham Academy. After training, they participate in a practicum experience involving observations and ongoing training workshops.
Many camp tutors return from previous summers at Camp Dunnabeck.
Activity Instructors
Many of Camp Dunnabeck’s activity instructors come back year after year to be part of the magic of Dunnabeck and reconnect with returning campers and staff. Activity instructors are experts, and some are teachers during the regular school year, and all love to be involved with the activities at Camp.
Camp Counselors
Our camp counselors come to us from around the world, providing a nurturing environment and offering unique cultural experiences. Counselors reside in dormitories for 24-hour supervision of campers. All staff are twenty-one years of age or older and certified in First Aid and CPR. Some are also certified lifeguards.