Vacation Suggestions for Mom with sp.needs Son

IL has some wonderful state ownded resorts. I have not had a chance to go to any but I know people who have and many of them are highly recommended. I have two special needs grandchildren I'm raising and I would like to take them to Rend Lake. Here is the link. http://dnr.state.il.us/lodges/index.htm. I had a reservation there once but had to cancel. I remember the rates being reasonable. When you find something please post it. I would be very interested in special need friendly vacation spots myself. E.

1 mom found this helpful

Maybe the Dells with all of the water parks? It could be a short weekend trip and most kids love the water.

http://www.dells.com/

What about going to a family dude ranch? They have them in Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, etc. Do you think he would enjoy learning to ride horses with you? They also have pools and cook outs, etc. Maybe something to check into?

I also have special needs kids. Sensory issues are us! Mine love any kind of water park. Indoor ones are great! Maybe there is one near you...? Many places are also willing to make accommodations for special needs kids.

What about just renting a remote cabin/ place near the water and taking him swimming? I don't have any suggestions on where but I am sure that you can google it or call a travel advisor for suggestions.

Hi S.--
I don't know how your son feels about water, the indoor water parks, in the WI, Dells and the one in Utica, IL are wonderful. I have an 11 year old special needs son, and he loves them. There is so much to do, and with a variety of water depths so even a non swimmer has a lot of fun. The Wilderness in the Dells seemed to provide the most for the $$.

Although it's not inexpensive, I wanted to let you know that Disney has a policy regarding special needs patrons. You get a kind of "fast pass" that lets you go to the front of the line. We have a 4.5 yr old that sounds a lot like your son and a couple of friends have told us about Disney.

What about indoor water parks? I know they don't get as hot as outside, plus you can go all year round! I know getting a room can be kind of expensive, but I think you can go for the day and maybe stay somewhere cheaper. I'm not sure though. You can also find out the guidelines for what the parks consider handicapped. He may be able to get on the rides with out waiting in line. Have you considered renting a wheelchair for him? That way when he gets too tired he can relax. Have fun on your vacation!!!!

Hello- I was going to suggest the dells also. The Kalahari is such a great hotel with so much to do inside, you dont even need to go outside in the heat. I know that hotel can be pricey but there are a ton of hotels there and if your son likes water, it would be a perfect vacation spot.