Life in camp

Szarvas Camp 2024 – Educational Theme

This year’s educational theme is "Adama: Nature and Environment in Judaism." When we think about the relationship between adam (people) and adamah (the earth), we often think of environmental protection and climate change, but rarely do we consider it from a Jewish perspective. This summer, we will explore these topics together, from the Garden of Eden to an ideal future, as we delve into Judaism's approach to the environment. We’ll examine how the environment is much more than just nature and how it connects to social and psychological issues. We will learn about sustainability, caring for people and animals, the complex concepts of building and destruction, and human responsibility. We hope that after camp, everyone will leave with a deeper understanding and as more responsible individuals, equipped with at least one tangible step toward positive change.

Camper Age Groups

The age groups are named after geographical regions of Israel, symbolizing the campers' growth. The names represent a progression from the Negev Desert to the Hermon Mountains, much like the age groups themselves.

Campers are divided into four age groups as follows: 

The youngest group is named after the southernmost location, with the older groups being named after regions that are progressively further north.

A Typical Day at Camp

The day starts at 8:00 AM with a wake-up call, followed by a short morning game and prayer, where the entire camp gathers. Breakfast is at 9:15 AM, and morning activities take place between 10:00 AM and 12:40 PM. Lunch is served at 1:00 PM, followed by a longer rest period. Afternoon programs are held between 3:30 PM and 6:15 PM, and dinner is at 7:00 PM. Shortly after dinner, evening programs begin, and the day ends with preparations for bed at times that vary by age group.

The camp uses informal Jewish education methods, incorporating interactive elements and the key aspects of 21st-century education. We present Judaism in a diverse and flexible way, offering choices and fostering personal and group relationships to strengthen each camper’s sense of belonging to the community. Through a wide range of fun and engaging programs, children and young people learn about themselves, the community, and Judaism while playing, laughing, and learning with ease.

Accommodation Options at Camp

We offer three types of accommodation, with room sizes varying from 4, 6, 8, 10, to 12 beds. The placement of campers depends on the size of the age group, the gender ratio, and the preferred locations of the age groups and countries. These factors may influence the type of accommodation assigned to campers. Regardless of the accommodation type, all campers are provided with the same level of comfort and services.