Life in camp


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 and the gender ratio. 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.

The cellphone usage

Szarvas Camp offers a great opportunity to learn to navigate social situations while not being constantly connected to a digital/virtual world. It is a place for children to develop life skills including independence and self-reliance. We believe the use of cell phones and texting distracts campers from the opportunity to become a part of this community. Additionally, research indicates a strong correlation between late-night mobile phone use and poorer sleep quality in teenagers, with studies showing that smartphone use before bed is linked to delayed sleep onset, shorter sleep duration, and reduced sleep quality.

To better facilitate our camp environment, cell phones, smart watches and other similar connected devices are restricted at Szarvas Camp. Campers will be able to access their phones daily (excluding Shabbat) from the end of lunch until curfew. However, the devices may not be used during meals or camp programs. The best times to connect with your camper during a typical camp day (schedule subject to change) while they are at camp are:

In case of emergency, you can reach out to your camper’s Unit Head directly and the phone number to be provided at a later date. MP3 players and e-readers are permitted but may only be used inside the cabins during free time. They cannot have video capability and must be strictly a music/reading device.

Thank you for your support of this important policy as we work to build a “face to face” connected community.