Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, Herzl Camp is a vibrant and nurturing place for campers to explore, grow, and create lasting friendships. Established with a rich history that spans decades, Herzl Camp has been a cornerstone of the community, offering a dynamic and inclusive environment where every camper feels valued.

Their mission is to provide a fun and safe environment where campers can develop their skills, discover new interests, and learn to be independent while embracing the core values of respect, community, and Jewish culture. At Herzl Camp, they believe in nurturing the body, mind, and spirit of each young individual, fostering a sense of accomplishment and belonging.

Herzl Camp welcomes boys and girls of various age groups, providing a range of activities tailored to meet the needs and interests of each age group. From exciting outdoor adventures to creative arts and sports, their programs are designed to engage campers and promote a healthy, active lifestyle.

Join us at Herzl Camp for an unforgettable summer experience where adventure awaits at every corner, right in the heart of Minnesota!

Programs Offered by Herzl Camp

At Herzl Camp, they offer a variety of programs that cater to the diverse interests and ages of their campers. Each program is designed to enrich the campers’ experience through a blend of learning, adventure, and fun, ensuring that every day is full of excitement and new opportunities.

Length of Sessions:

One-Week Sessions: Perfect for younger campers or first-timers who are just getting a taste of camp life.
Two-Week Sessions: These sessions provide a deeper experience, allowing for more in-depth exploration of activities and stronger bond formation among campers.
Full Summer: The ultimate camp experience, spanning several weeks for those who truly want to immerse themselves in everything Herzl Camp has to offer.

Specialty Programs:

Arts: Their arts program includes everything from painting and sculpture to drama and dance, encouraging campers to express themselves creatively.
Sports: Focused on both team sports and individual activities, their sports program aims to develop skills, sportsmanship, and personal fitness.
Science: Designed for curious minds, their science program offers hands-on experiments and explorations in nature, fostering a love for learning and discovery.

Typical Daily Schedule:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning stretch
8:00 AM: Breakfast in the dining hall
9:00 AM: Morning activities (campers rotate through their chosen specialty programs)
12:00 PM: Lunch and rest period
1:00 PM: Afternoon activities (free choice of sports, arts, or recreational activities)
5:00 PM: Dinner in the dining hall
6:00 PM: Evening program (special events, campfires, guest speakers)
8:00 PM: Night activities (games, stargazing, night hikes)
9:30 PM: Return to cabins and lights out

Every day at Herzl Camp is structured to provide a balanced mix of educational enrichment, physical activity, social interaction, and personal development, ensuring that each camper has a memorable and transformative summer.

Accommodations in Herzl Camp

Herzl Camp provides comfortable and secure accommodations to ensure campers have a pleasant stay. Campers are housed in cabins that are well-maintained and designed to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among them. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal items, ensuring a cozy and functional living space. The cabins are grouped by age and gender to provide a safe and supportive environment for all campers.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: At Herzl Camp, they take pride in their nutritious and delicious meal offerings. All meals are provided in a communal dining hall where campers gather to eat together, promoting social interaction and a family-like atmosphere. Their meal plans are designed to accommodate the high-energy needs of active children and teens.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, Herzl Camp offers options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher diets. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle specific dietary restrictions with the utmost care to ensure every camper enjoys healthy and tasty meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities: The camp is equipped with modern bathroom and shower facilities, conveniently located near the cabins. These facilities are separated by gender and are accessible to all campers. They are cleaned and maintained multiple times a day to ensure hygiene and comfort. Each shower area provides privacy and space for campers to take care of their personal needs, helping them refresh and rejuvenate after a day full of activities.

Herzl Camp’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure safety, comfort, and a wholesome camp experience, allowing campers to focus on enjoying their summer adventure.

Activities in Herzl Camp

Herzl Camp offers a wide range of activities designed to cater to all interests and skill levels, ensuring every camper finds something they loves. Here are some of the activities available:

Swimming: Supervised by certified lifeguards, their swimming activities include lessons for beginners and free swim periods.
Hiking: Explore the natural beauty surrounding the camp on guided hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels.
Crafts: From pottery to beadwork and everything in between, their crafts workshops allow campers to express their creativity.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports including basketball, soccer, tennis, and volleyball to promote physical fitness and teamwork.
Performing Arts: Summer camps can engage in drama, dance, and music sessions, culminating in performances at the camp’s amphitheater.
Nature Exploration: Activities like bird watching and nature scavenger hunts educate campers about the environment while having fun.
Boating and Canoeing: Water sports on the lake provide thrilling adventures and skill-building opportunities.

Special Events or Traditions: Herzl Camp is rich in traditions and special events that build a strong camp community and create lasting memories. Some highlights include:

Opening and Closing Ceremonies: These bookend the camp sessions, setting the tone and celebrating their time together.
Color Wars: A camp-wide competition that involves games, sports, and creative contests, fostering spirit and camaraderie.
Campfires: Regular campfires offer storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, enhancing the classic camp experience.
Shabbat Celebrations: Weekly Shabbat observances bring the community together in reflection and celebration, honoring their cultural heritage.

Skill Development Opportunities: At Herzl Camp, they focus on more than just fun; they aim to foster personal growth and skill development. Campers have the chance to:

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to build confidence and leadership skills that they can take back to their communities.
Environmental Stewardship: Through various nature-based activities, campers learn about conservation and the importance of taking care of the environment.
Artistic Expression: Through their arts programs, campers can develop their artistic skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Sportsmanship and Teamwork: Their sports activities teach campers the value of fair play, teamwork, and healthy competition.

Herzl Camp’s diverse array of activities ensures that each camper can engage in both new experiences and traditional camp favorites, all while developing valuable life skills.

The staff of Herzl Camp

At Herzl Camp, they prioritize safety and personalized attention, maintaining an optimal staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that each camper receives the guidance and support they need. Their ratio is carefully calculated to provide ample supervision while fostering meaningful interactions between staff and campers. This ratio varies depending on the age group and activity but is designed to meet or exceed industry standards to ensure a safe and supportive environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Selection: Their hiring process is rigorous and thorough. Candidates undergo a detailed application process that includes background checks, interviews, and reference checks to ensure they are not only qualified but also share their camp’s values and ethos.
Qualifications: They seek staff members who are passionate about working with children and have experience in education, recreation, or related fields. Many of their staff members are pursuing or have completed degrees in education, psychology, or sports and recreation management.
Diversity and Inclusion: They are committed to diversity and inclusivity, hiring staff from a variety of backgrounds and experiences to enrich the camp environment and provide broad perspectives.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: Before camp begins, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, child development, emergency procedures, and specific training related to their assigned activities.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. This is essential not only for the safety of their campers but also to ensure that staff can confidently handle any situation that may arise.
Specialized Certifications: Depending on their roles, some staff may also hold additional certifications such as lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or specific sports coaching certifications. These are particularly relevant for staff involved in water activities or adventure sports.

Ongoing Development: Herzl Camp is committed to the continuous professional development of its staff. Throughout the summer, they offer ongoing training sessions and feedback opportunities to ensure their team remains sharp, motivated, and up-to-date with the best practices in camp leadership and child care.

The dedication and training of the staff at Herzl Camp are central to their mission, ensuring that they provide a safe, educational, and fun environment where campers can thrive and build lasting memories.

Safety and Health in Herzl Camp

At Herzl Camp, ensuring the safety of their campers and staff is their utmost priority. They have established comprehensive safety protocols and procedures that are rigorously followed to maintain a secure environment.

Regular Drills: They conduct regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and emergency evacuation drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with how to act in different emergency situations.
Activity-Specific Safety: Each activity offered at the camp has specific safety guidelines which are strictly enforced. For example, all aquatic activities are supervised by certified lifeguards, and appropriate safety gear is used for sports and adventure activities.
Secure Campus: The campgrounds are secured and monitored to ensure that only authorized personnel and campers are on site. Check-ins and check-outs are strictly managed to keep track of all individuals entering and leaving the camp.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Herzl Camp has a well-equipped health center staffed by qualified medical professionals, including nurses and a visiting doctor. The health center is prepared to handle routine health care needs as well as minor injuries and illnesses.
Medications: The health center manages and dispenses all medications. Parents are required to provide a detailed medical form and all necessary medications with clear instructions at the beginning of camp.
Mental Health Support: Recognizing the importance of mental health, counselors trained to support emotional and psychological well-being are also available to the campers.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Preparedness Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency preparedness plan that outlines specific steps for various potential emergencies, from natural disasters to health-related incidents. This plan is reviewed and updated regularly to adapt to new challenges and ensure effectiveness.
Communication: In case of an emergency, there is a clear communication plan to inform parents and guardians promptly. The camp maintains updated contact information for all campers’ families and ensures that communication channels are accessible and reliable.
Training: All staff participate in emergency response training, including how to handle specific medical emergencies, ensuring they are prepared to act swiftly and effectively in any situation.

Herzl Camp’s commitment to safety and health is integral to its operation, providing peace of mind to parents and a safe environment for all campers and staff. This commitment ensures that every camper can enjoy a fun, enriching summer experience with the highest standards of safety and care.

Cost and Registration in Herzl Camp

The cost of attending Herzl Camp varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program selected. Generally, the fee includes all of the following:

Accommodation: Comfortable lodging in their well-maintained cabins.
Meals: Three nutritious meals per day, along with snacks, accommodating any dietary restrictions.
Activities: Full access to all camp activities including sports, arts, crafts, and specialty programs.
Supervision and Care: Continuous supervision by trained staff, ensuring safety and support.
Health Services: Access to on-site health and wellness facilities.

They strive to keep their camp affordable while maintaining high-quality facilities and programs.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Registration for Herzl Camp is conducted online through their secure portal. New and returning families can create an account, select their session, and complete the necessary forms.
Deadlines: They recommend registering early as spaces fill up quickly and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Specific registration deadlines for each session are listed on their website.
Required Information: Families will need to provide camper medical information, emergency contacts, and any special requirements during registration.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: Recognizing the financial commitment, Herzl Camp offers flexible payment plans to help families budget for the camp experience. Details and arrangements can be made during the registration process.
Refunds and Cancellations: They have a structured refund and cancellation policy, which allows families to recoup a portion of their fees if cancellation is made by a certain date. Details of these policies are clearly outlined on their website to ensure transparency.
Cancellations due to Illness or Emergency: Special considerations are made for cancellations due to illness or family emergency, with the potential for partial or full refunds based on timing and circumstances.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Herzl Camp is committed to making camp accessible to as many children as possible. They offer scholarships based on need, which can be applied for during the registration process.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various community organizations and special funds established by generous donors. They encourage families to apply early for these opportunities as funds are limited.

Cost:

First Session – $2,500
Second Session – $4,655

Parent and Camper Preparation in Herzl Camp

To ensure that campers have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience, here’s a suggested packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough for the session duration, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, swimsuits, a jacket, and rain gear. Don’t forget pajamas, underwear, and socks!
Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking, sandals for showers, and athletic shoes for sports.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a towel.
Other Essentials: Water bottle, hat, sunglasses, flashlight with extra batteries.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, disposable camera (if electronics are not allowed).

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use: Herzl Camp encourages campers to disconnect from digital devices to engage fully with the camp experience. Cell phones, tablets, and other electronics are generally not allowed, or their use is restricted to certain times and areas.
Visitation: To ensure the safety and structure of the camp program, visitation is typically limited to specific days such as family days, which are communicated ahead of the camp session.
Behavioral Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is paramount. Campers are expected to adhere to camp rules and follow the guidance of their counselors.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:
- Stay Positive: It’s normal to feel a bit nervous about going to camp, especially if it’s your first time. Try to focus on the fun and exciting activities you’ll be doing.
- Be Open to Making New Friends: Camp is a great place to meet new people and make friends from different backgrounds.
- Try New Things: Camp is the perfect setting to step out of your comfort zone and try new activities.
For Parents:
- Prepare Together: Go through the packing list with your camper and involve them in the packing process. It’s a great way to build excitement and ensure they feel prepared.
- Talk About Expectations: Discuss what camp will be like, including the activities, the daily schedule, and the rules. Knowing what to expect can help alleviate any anxiety.
- Stay Connected: Write letters or use any approved communication methods to stay in touch. Knowing they’ll hear from you can help ease any homesickness.

Preparing both parents and campers for the camp experience not only ensures that practical needs are met but also helps set the stage for a successful and enjoyable summer at Herzl Camp.

Herzl Camp in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, offers an enriching summer experience that combines fun, learning, and adventure in a supportive Jewish community setting. With a wide range of activities, from swimming and hiking to arts and science programs, campers of all ages and interests can find something to excite and challenge them. Their commitment to safety, personal growth, and community ensures that every camper leaves with not only lifelong memories but also skills and friendships that extend far beyond the summer.

By maintaining a dedicated and well-trained staff, offering comprehensive health and safety measures, and providing an inclusive environment, Herzl Camp prioritizes the well-being and development of each camper. Whether it’s a camper’s first summer or they’re returning year after year, Herzl Camp strives to make every summer an unforgettable experience.