Welcome to Camp Yavneh, a vibrant summer retreat nestled in the picturesque woods of Northwood, New Hampshire. Located in a region renowned for its natural beauty, the camp is conveniently situated near the serene waters of Lucas Pond, offering a perfect backdrop for unforgettable summer adventures.

Since its establishment, Camp Yavneh has been dedicated to providing an enriching, fun, and safe environment for youth. Their camp’s philosophy centers around fostering lifelong friendships, personal growth, and a strong sense of community. They believe in the importance of each camper’s individual experience, ensuring that every child leaves with cherished memories and new skills.

Camp Yavneh caters to boys and girls across various age groups, creating a diverse and inclusive atmosphere. Their programs are thoughtfully designed to meet the developmental needs of each age group, with activities ranging from sports and arts to outdoor adventures and cultural education. Join us at Camp Yavneh for a summer filled with learning, laughter, and the joy of being part of a community.

Programs Offered by Camp Yavneh

Camp Yavneh offers a diverse array of programs tailored to enrich the summer experience for campers of all interests and ages. Here’s an overview of what they provide:

Description of Programs

Camp Yavneh focuses on a holistic approach to summer activities, ensuring that every camper finds something they love. Programs span from traditional camp activities like swimming and canoeing to unique offerings like archery and rock climbing. The integration of arts, sports, and nature exploration guarantees a well-rounded summer.

Length of Sessions

Short Sessions: For younger campers or those new to the overnight camp experience, they offer one-week introductory sessions.
Standard Sessions: Two-week sessions that provide a deeper dive into camp life and more time to engage in complex projects and activities.
Full Summer: Their full summer option spans several weeks, allowing for comprehensive involvement in all camp aspects, from building relationships to mastering new skills.

Specialty Programs

Arts: Includes visual arts, theater, music, and dance. Campers can participate in performances, showcases, and art exhibitions.
Sports: Offers a range of activities including soccer, basketball, tennis, and watersports, emphasizing both skill development and teamwork.
Science: Engages campers in hands-on, experiential learning in fields such as environmental science, robotics, and astronomy.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Yavneh is structured to provide a balance of activities, personal time, and group interactions. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day:

Morning: After waking up and having breakfast, campers start their day with a morning cheer and then move on to a scheduled block of activities, which might include arts and crafts, sports, or nature hikes.
Noon: Lunch is followed by some downtime, allowing campers to rest or engage in free-choice activities.
Afternoon: The afternoon session often includes water-based activities like swimming or boating, followed by special workshops or continued focus on ongoing projects.
Evening: After dinner, evening programs range from campfires and storytelling to talent shows and themed nights, culminating in a community gathering before bedtime.

At Camp Yavneh, every day is designed to be engaging, educational, and fun, ensuring that each camper can make the most of their summer in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Accommodations in Camp Yavneh

Camp Yavneh ensures that all campers feel comfortable and well-cared for during their stay. Here’s an overview of the accommodations they offer:

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers at Camp Yavneh stay in well-maintained cabins that are designed to be both cozy and functional. Each cabin houses a group of campers along with at least two counselors, ensuring safety and a family-like atmosphere. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and large windows to let in natural light.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: They provide three well-balanced meals each day, prepared by their experienced kitchen staff. Meals are served in their communal dining hall, where campers gather to eat and socialize.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to all dietary needs, Camp Yavneh offers options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher diets. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle various dietary restrictions and allergies, ensuring that every camper has nutritious and enjoyable meal options.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Each cabin cluster has its own centrally located bathhouse, which includes multiple toilets, sinks, and private shower stalls. The facilities are gender-segregated and regularly cleaned and maintained by their camp staff to ensure hygiene and comfort for all campers.

At Camp Yavneh, they strive to make the living conditions as homely and comfortable as possible, allowing campers to focus on enjoying their summer experiences without any worries about their basic needs.

Activities in Camp Yavneh

Camp Yavneh offers a dynamic range of activities designed to engage campers of all interests and skill levels. Here’s a comprehensive look at the activities and special events that define the Camp Yavneh experience:

List of Activities Offered

Water Activities: Summer camps, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
Land Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, archery, and softball.
Adventure and Exploration: Hiking, camping trips, rock climbing, and nature walks.
Creative Arts: Crafts, painting, pottery, jewelry making, woodworking, and photography.
Performing Arts: Drama, dance, music, and preparation for camp-wide performances.
Educational and Cultural: Language classes, cooking workshops, and cultural history.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Yavneh is rich in tradition and hosts several special events that are eagerly anticipated each summer:

Color Wars: An all-camp competition that spans several days and includes a wide range of activities, from sports to trivia.
International Day: Celebrating the diverse cultures within the camp, with food, music, and games from around the world.
Campfire Nights: Regular gatherings around the campfire for storytelling, songs, marshmallow roasting, and camaraderie.
End-of-Summer Gala: A festive event where campers showcase their talents and achievements from the summer.

Skill Development Opportunities

Camp Yavneh not only focuses on fun but also on personal growth and skill development:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs, preparing them to be future counselors and leaders both in and out of camp.
Specialized Workshops: For those interested in deepening specific skills, workshops in areas such as advanced sports techniques, fine arts, and science projects are available.
Personal Achievement Tracking: Campers are encouraged to set personal goals at the beginning of the summer, and progress is celebrated in a supportive environment.

Camp Yavneh’s wide range of activities ensures that every camper finds something to love, learns new skills, and makes lasting friendships, all while enjoying the beautiful natural setting of the camp.

The staff of Camp Yavneh

At Camp Yavneh, they are committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and care for all campers by maintaining a well-trained and dedicated staff. Here’s an overview of their staffing policies, including the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, and the training and certifications their staff hold:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

Camp Yavneh maintains a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives individual attention and care. Typically, the ratio is one staff member for every four to six campers, which allows us to provide a safe, attentive, and responsive environment throughout the camp.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Hiring Process: Their staff are selected through a rigorous hiring process that includes detailed interviews, background checks, and reference checks to ensure they recruit individuals who are not only qualified but also passionate about working with children.
Staff Qualifications: They look for candidates with previous experience in camp settings, education, or child care. Many of their staff members are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, or related fields. In addition, they prioritize candidates who exhibit strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and a genuine enthusiasm for promoting a positive camp environment.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the commencement of camp, all staff members undergo comprehensive training that covers camp policies, child behavior management techniques, emergency procedures, and activity-specific safety protocols.
CPR and First Aid Certifications: All staff are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. They often also include lifeguard training, depending on the staff member’s role at camp.
Specialized Certifications: For activities that require additional expertise, such as rock climbing or swimming, staff members hold relevant certifications and are trained to manage these activities safely.

Camp Yavneh’s commitment to maintaining a well-trained and qualified staff ensures that every camper enjoys a safe, nurturing, and fun-filled summer experience.

Safety and Health in Camp Yavneh

Safety and health are top priorities at Camp Yavneh, ensuring that all campers and staff enjoy a secure and healthy environment throughout their summer experience. Here are the details of their safety protocols, on-site health facilities, and emergency handling policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency lockdowns, to ensure that both campers and staff are well-prepared for any situation.
Activity Safety: All activities are supervised by staff members who have specific training and certifications appropriate to their activity. Equipment is regularly inspected, and safety gear must be worn for certain activities like archery or rock climbing.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with secure entry points and monitored by security personnel. Staff members are trained to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on campgrounds at all times.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Yavneh has a well-equipped health center that is staffed 24/7 by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and a camp doctor on call.
Medical Supplies and Care: The health center stocks all necessary medical supplies, from first aid kits for each activity area to more specialized medical equipment for managing health conditions or injuries.
Health Screenings: Upon arrival, each camper undergoes a health screening, and parents are required to provide a comprehensive health history and information on any allergies, medications, or special needs.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that is reviewed and updated annually. This plan includes procedures for natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other critical situations.
Communication with Families: In the event of an emergency, Camp Yavneh has a protocol for timely communication with families. Parents are informed of the nature of the emergency, actions taken, and updates on their child’s wellbeing.
Training and Collaboration: Staff are trained in emergency response, and they regularly collaborate with local emergency services to ensure coordinated and efficient actions during emergencies. This includes having local fire, police, and medical services familiar with their camp layout and protocols.

By maintaining stringent safety standards and preparedness, Camp Yavneh ensures that the health and well-being of every camper and staff member are safeguarded, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying a fun and enriching summer camp experience.

Cost and Registration in Camp Yavneh

Camp Yavneh is dedicated to making its enriching summer experiences accessible to as many families as possible. Here’s an overview of the cost, registration process, and financial options available:

Cost of Attendance

What It Includes: The cost of attending Camp Yavneh covers all lodging, meals, activities, and on-site health care. It also includes any special events, equipment used for activities, and camp memorabilia such as t-shirts.
Varies by Session: Costs can vary depending on the length of the session chosen—whether it’s a one-week introductory, two-week standard, or the full summer option.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Families can register their children. The platform guides you through the necessary steps to complete the registration, including health information and emergency contacts.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in the fall for the following summer. Early registration is encouraged to ensure a spot, as some sessions fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Recognizing the need for flexibility, Camp Yavneh offers various payment plan options, allowing families to spread the cost over multiple installments.
Refunds and Cancellations: The camp has a clear refund policy detailed in the registration documents. Generally, a full or partial refund is available if cancellation occurs before a specified date, which is usually several months before the session begins. After this date, refunds may be limited to exceptional circumstances.
Cancellation Insurance: Families are also offered the option to purchase cancellation insurance to cover unforeseen events that necessitate withdrawing from the camp.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Availability: Scholarships and financial aid are available to families who demonstrate financial need. These opportunities aim to ensure that no child misses out on Camp Yavneh due to cost.
Application Process: Families interested in financial aid can apply through a confidential process, typically involving the submission of financial information and a statement of need.

Camp Yavneh strives to be as inclusive as possible, providing various financial options and support to ensure that all interested families have the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits of summer camp.

Camp Yavneh offers various summer camp programs with different fees depending on the program and session length. Here’s a breakdown of their fees:

Session I (Grades 2-9): – Costs $7,600
Session II (Grades 2-9): – Costs $6,500
Full Session (Grades 2-9): Combines both sessions – Costs $12,500
Kaytana (Grades 2-4): Shorter program within Session II – Costs $3,400
Kerem (Grade 10): Leadership program running the entire summer – Costs $12,500

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Yavneh

Preparing for a stay at Camp Yavneh is an exciting time for both campers and their families. Here’s essential information to ensure that everyone is ready for a fantastic summer experience:

Packing List

Camp Yavneh provides a detailed packing list that includes everything a camper might need during their stay:

Clothing: Pack enough for 10-14 days. Include comfortable clothing suitable for a variety of activities (e.g., t-shirts, shorts, pants), swimwear, a jacket for cooler evenings, and a raincoat.
Footwear: Bring sneakers, sandals, and water shoes.
Bedding and Towels: Include sheets, blankets (or a sleeping bag), and bath and beach towels.
Toiletries and Sunscreen: Don’t forget personal hygiene items and sunscreen.
Other Essentials: Flashlight, water bottle, insect repellent, and a hat for sun protection.
Optional Items: Books, stationery, and disposable cameras are recommended for leisure time.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To ensure all campers fully engage with camp life and activities, personal electronics like smartphones, tablets, and laptops are not allowed. Cameras (not on phones) and music players without internet connectivity are typically acceptable.
Visitation: Parents and family members are encouraged to visit on designated visiting days, which are scheduled to minimize disruption to camp activities and routines.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Get Involved: Engage in as many activities as you can, and don’t be afraid to try something new.
- Stay Positive: Homesickness is normal. Remember, it usually passes quickly, especially as you make friends and get used to camp life.
- Communicate: If you’re having any issues, talk to your counselor. They’re there to help!
For Parents:
- Stay Informed: Read all the materials provided by the camp, understand the rules, and know what your child should expect.
- Prepare Your Child: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and opportunities to make new friends.
- Manage Separation Anxiety: It’s normal to miss your child, but try to maintain a positive attitude. Send encouraging letters or emails if the camp permits.

Camp Yavneh is committed to providing a safe, fun, and memorable summer experience for all campers. Proper preparation ensures that both campers and their parents are set up for success, ready to enjoy everything camp has to offer.

Camp Yavneh stands out as a beacon of community, growth, and unforgettable experiences nestled in the scenic surroundings of Northwood, New Hampshire. With a rich array of activities ranging from water sports and creative arts to outdoor adventures and cultural education, Camp Yavneh caters to the diverse interests and developmental needs of each camper. Their carefully crafted programs, coupled with a supportive and nurturing staff, ensure that every child not only has fun but also builds lasting friendships and develops essential life skills.

Their commitment to safety, inclusivity, and personal development makes Camp Yavneh more than just a summer camp—it’s a community where every camper is valued and where lifelong memories are made. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned veteran, Camp Yavneh promises a summer filled with adventure, learning, and joy. They look forward to welcoming you and offering the quintessential summer experience that generations of families have come to love and trust.