Growing up can be a challenge, no matter what culture you grow up in. Between going to school, trying to discover your identity and learning about your faith, these can be jam-packed years for kids, full of questions and sometimes very few answers.
But the one respite all kids have from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives is camp — a place where they can unwind and be themselves. For Jewish kids, camp can be such a great opportunity to not only discover who they are as people, but also learn about their culture in a way that isn’t offered anywhere else. It’s a relaxed place where they can have fun and discover the world in between eating s’mores and going swimming.
With that in mind, we wanted to present to our readers the summer camp experience from a number of different perspectives. We look at a wide variety of camps, both Jewish and otherwise, as well as talk to some of the people involved. It’s a great look at what can become some of the best experiences in a young person’s life.
Enjoy.
A Good Place to Make Camp
Looking for some amazing camp options? Here are a few we’ve found.
B’nai B’rith Camp
Oregon Coast
What Arizona kid doesn’t want to get out of town during the 120-degree summers that the rest of us have to endure? Located on the Oregon coast, B’nai B’rith Camp is a Jewish community camp that serves both kids and adults. Established in 1921, the camp has both summer and year-round programming. A wide range of activities and programs instill the values and ethics of Jewish living, and enable campers to develop leadership skills and grow while forming lifelong friendships.
www.bbcamp.org | 503-452-3429
Friendly Pines Camp
Prescott, Arizona
This residential summer camp for kids ages 6 to 13 sits in the wooded hills of Prescott, located just about two hours northwest of Phoenix. This is a nondenominational camp, so children from all faiths can attend to have a blast in the cooler temperatures. There are more than 30 activities, and each camper selects the activities he or she would like to participate in on their first day. The camp has a long history — this year they’ll celebrate 71 years of summer fun.
www.friendlypines.com | 888-281-CAMP
