A camp in Bradenton for special kids is busier than ever.

Every summer, children from all over the Bay area and beyond come to the Dream Oaks Camp. The camp, run by the Foundation for Dreams, is a non-profit therapeutic program for children with special needs and chronic illnesses.

“This camp is for a wide range of kids from 7 to 17 with any diagnosed disability from mental to physical, even terminal illnesses come out,” said Garrett Secor, Camp Director.

Secor said the camp allows children to bond with others, improve their confidence, and have a good time.

It also gives parents and caregivers a break, knowing their children are in good hands.

"They’re going to be surrounded by people who love them and care for them,” said Secor.  "Everyone here is looked as equal.”

The campers swim, boat, go horseback riding, do arts and crafts, music and more.

Some stay for just a day while others stay overnight for a week or two.

“This is so much fun,” said camper, Kai Schrott, 12.  “I could come here every day.  It’s just awesome.  It’s just an awesome camp.”

Schrott and his friends said the camp is a blast and they look forward to coming back every year.

“I get to have fun,” said camper, Brandon Todd, 13.

It’s a camp that’s gaining popularity.

For the first time, the camp is completely full and there is a waiting list.

From last summer to this year, the camp grew from 85 campers to 185.

Directors said the camp is one of the only overnight camp facilities of this type in the state. 

They said through word of mouth, more and more people are finding out about it.

The Dream Oaks Camp holds year round sessions.

The group is looking to expand their age group in the future to older teens.