Wilderness Inquiry Family Outdoor Programs

In my search for summer outdoor adventures for people with autism and their families I came across a gem: Wilderness Inquiry Family Outdoor Programs. They also have a variety of other trips and services, but I want to focus on their family trips here. Their trips include 2-5 day camping/hiking/canoeing/kayaking/fishing trips to these locations: Itasca State Park, Apostle Islands, St. Croix, Superior National Forest, Voyageur’s National Park, Yellowstone, and Custer State Park.

The summer months can be especially difficult for people with autism and their families. School programs end and then families are left to their own devices to figure out what to do for the 2 or more months their children will not be in school. All families feel pressure during the summer, but for families of people with autism there is even more pressure to ensure that they’re kept on a schedule with routine. Many people opt to increase hours of therapy which is great, but unfortunately many people don’t venture into the world of summer camps because there are limited resources and a limited number of camps that can support people with moderate to severe disabilities. That’s why I was so thrilled to find Wilderness Inquiry.

I’ve seen an unfortunate trend in the Autism Community. People with autism are many times enrolled in programs, or simply at home, in which they are consistently inside. Families tend to opt out of outdoor activities because it is uncomfortable or difficult. There may be some resistance because their child acts differently and they don’t want to “bother” other outdoor enthusiasts. This way of thinking is a travesty both for the family and the child. The family doesn’t go places like a family should, and the child doesn’t get exposed to the great wonder of travel and the outdoors.

This is why I feel that an organization like the Wilderness Inquiry is a wonderful stepping stone for families. They make travel and outdoor adventures accessible to all. They have experience serving people of all ages with and without disabilities. And, most importantly, they can help families explore the possibilities of traveling and taking their children on wonderful adventures. One adventure with this organization may make families realize the possibilities and the potential for their child and their family. They no longer need to be confined to the indoors when everyone else is outside enjoying the summer. They can go out just like everyone else and enjoy the beauty and the wonder our world has to offer.

Happy Summer Travels!!

Wilderness Inquiry Website

**Do you know of any other organizations that provide these types of services? If so, please share them here.

**Are you looking for summer opportunities for your family? If so, let me know where and I can help you research the possibilities.

**Have you had any experience traveling with your child with autism, positive or negative? If so, please share them here.