Camp Barnabas is a ministry in Southwest Missouri dedicated to providing a unique Christian summer camp experience to individuals with special needs, their siblings, and youth from across the United States. The new aquatic complex at Camp Barnabas was opened on June 10, 2023 to rave reviews by campers. This unique project was made possible thanks to the vision of Camp Barnabas' leadership, an incredibly generous donation from the Morgan family (owner of Sunbelt Pools), and many of the top manufacturers/suppliers supporting the aquatics industry. The complex is the largest swimming pool in America that has been specifically designed to serve individuals with disabilities, and it offers a unique aquatic experience for special needs campers of all ages.
The 46,000 sq. ft. complex features two environments: a Zen-style area for campers with sensory sensitivities and a more stimulating zone featuring interactive water features, sprays, and excitement. The Zen-style area is intended as a more passive zone within the facility where campers can enjoy interaction with water away from the hustle and bustle of the more active zones, meant to be more peaceful and calm while not being entirely isolated. Overall the complex is designed to allow all campers to participate and enjoy without limitation.
Zoning of the facility was an important consideration to how the facility would be utilized, as well as visibility throughout the entire pool. Campers who utilize the pool are escorted by supervisors, usually on a one-to-one basis. The layout and openness of the facility allows individuals to engage in aquatic activities that they most enjoy with a sense of inclusion to the activity of fellow campers in other zones of the pool. Design features such as the broad gradual sloped entries, cushioned slip-resistant LifeFloor surfacing, and expansive deck areas assist with comfort and accessibility for all campers.