Welcome to Camp Kesher, nestled in the vibrant heart of Portland, Oregon. This unique camp is ideally situated in the scenic Pacific Northwest, offering an enriching environment near iconic Portland landmarks such as the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood. Founded with a passion for community and character-building, Camp Kesher has a rich history of providing transformative experiences for young people.

At the core of Camp Kesher is a mission dedicated to fostering a sense of adventure, self-discovery, and community among its campers. They believe in empowering each individual to explore their potential in a supportive, inclusive environment. Their philosophy is centered on nurturing the whole person through a blend of physical, emotional, and intellectual challenges that inspire growth and joy.

Camp Kesher serves as a summer retreat for children and teens aged 7 to 17. Their programs are thoughtfully designed to cater to both boys and girls, ensuring a welcoming space for all campers to thrive. Whether it’s through outdoor adventures, artistic expression, or team-building activities, Camp Kesher offers a dynamic, engaging summer experience that leaves lasting memories and lifelong friendships. Join us to discover a summer of excitement and learning in the beautiful surroundings of Portland!

Programs Offered by Camp Kesher

Camp Kesher provides a diverse array of programs designed to engage campers of all interests and ages. Their sessions vary in length to accommodate different needs and preferences, including one-week introductions, two-week deep dives, and full-summer immersions. Here’s a closer look at the programs and daily life at Camp Kesher:

Programs Offered

Adventure and Wilderness Exploration: Campers can immerse themselves in the natural beauty surrounding Portland through activities like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
Arts and Creativity: This program nurtures artistic talents in areas such as painting, music, drama, and crafts, encouraging self-expression and creativity.
Sports and Team Building: From traditional sports like soccer and basketball to unique group challenges, this program focuses on physical health, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Science and Discovery: Campers can engage in hands-on learning experiences in biology, astronomy, and environmental science, fostering curiosity and a love for learning.

Length of Sessions

One-Week Introductions: Ideal for younger campers or those new to the camp experience, focusing on general activities that allow campers to sample everything.
Two-Week Deep Dives: These sessions offer more intensive exploration in a chosen specialty area, allowing for skill development and personal growth.
Full Summer Immersions: A comprehensive, all-encompassing experience that combines elements from all programs over several weeks, perfect for the avid camper.

Specialty Programs

Camp Kesher also features specialty programs that cater to specific interests:

Outdoor Leadership: Designed for teens, this program focuses on wilderness skills and leadership training in an outdoor setting.
Creative Arts Workshop: An intensive art program that brings in local artists to work closely with campers on advanced projects.
STEM Academy: A program dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and math, featuring exciting projects and experiments.

Typical Daily Schedule

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning exercise
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning Program Session 1 (specialty area)
10:30 AM: Snack Break
10:45 AM: Morning Program Session 2 (specialty area)
12:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 PM: Free Time/Rest
2:30 PM: Afternoon Program Session (rotating activities)
4:00 PM: Leisure Time (swimming, games, free play)
5:30 PM: Dinner
6:30 PM: Evening Activities (campfire, talent show, night hikes)
8:30 PM: Nighttime Reflection and Journaling
9:30 PM: Lights Out

Camp Kesher’s structured schedule ensures that each day is packed with fun, learning, and opportunities to build friendships and memories. Whether you’re a budding scientist, an aspiring artist, or an adventure enthusiast, there’s something for everyone at Camp Kesher!

Accommodations in Camp Kesher

At Camp Kesher, they prioritize creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for all campers. Here’s a detailed look at their accommodations:

Sleeping Arrangements

Cabins: Their cozy cabins are designed to provide a sense of community and comfort. Each cabin is equipped with bunk beds, ample storage space, and plenty of natural light. They have separate cabins for boys and girls, ensuring privacy and safety.
Tents: For campers who enjoy a more rustic experience, they offer tent camping in designated areas of the campgrounds. These tents are spacious, weather-resistant, and equipped with sleeping mats and lanterns.
Dorms: For older campers and those participating in specialty programs, they have dormitory-style lodgings. These dorms offer a communal living experience with shared bathrooms and lounge areas, promoting camaraderie and team spirit.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Kesher provides a variety of meal plans tailored to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Their meals are designed to be nutritious, delicious, and satisfying, featuring a mix of classic camp fare and healthy options.
Dietary Accommodations: They are committed to catering to all dietary requirements. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle allergies, intolerances, and special diets, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher options. Campers with specific dietary needs are encouraged to inform us in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Modern Facilities: Their camp boasts well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities, ensuring campers have access to clean, comfortable amenities. Separate facilities are available for boys and girls, with private stalls and hot water showers.
Accessibility: They strive to make their facilities accessible to all campers. Their showers and bathrooms are designed to accommodate campers with disabilities, with features such as wheelchair-accessible stalls and support bars.

At Camp Kesher, they aim to provide a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable living environment, allowing campers to focus on having fun, making friends, and creating unforgettable memories.

Activities in Camp Kesher

Camp Kesher offers a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests, ensuring every camper finds something they enjoy. Here’s a breakdown of the typical activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available:

List of Activities Offered

Outdoor Adventures: Summer camps can engage in hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and orienteering. These activities are designed to enhance appreciation for nature and outdoor skills.
Water Sports: The camp includes access to a lake, where campers can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Creative Arts: A wide range of arts and crafts options are available, including pottery, painting, woodworking, and jewelry making.
Sports: Facilities cater to soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.
Performing Arts: Campers can participate in drama, dance, and music, culminating in performances at the camp’s open-stage night.
Science and Nature Programs: These programs might include astronomy sessions, wildlife studies, and environmental science projects, enhancing scientific curiosity and knowledge.

Special Events or Traditions

Opening Ceremony: A warm welcome event that introduces campers to the camp’s culture and staff, setting the tone for their stay.
Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition that spans several days, involving games, arts, and sports, fostering spirit and camaraderie.
Talent Show: Campers showcase their talents, whether in music, dance, magic, or comedy, encouraging creativity and confidence.
Campfire Nights: Regular evenings spent around a campfire, featuring storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, nurturing a sense of community.
Final Banquet: A formal dinner on the last night of camp where achievements are celebrated, friendships are commemorated, and farewells are exchanged.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs that include mentoring younger campers and leading small group activities.
Specialty Clinics: For those interested in deepening specific skills, specialty clinics in areas like advanced sports techniques, fine arts, or advanced science experiments are offered.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs designed to teach campers about sustainability practices and environmental care, including hands-on projects like tree planting or community clean-ups.

Camp Kesher is dedicated to offering a fun, educational, and enriching experience where campers not only enjoy their time but also develop valuable skills, build character, and make lifelong memories.

The staff of Camp Kesher

Camp Kesher is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all campers, and this begins with Their dedicated staff. Here are details on the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, qualifications, and training of Their team:

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

General Staffing: Camp Kesher maintains a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:8, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and support.
Specialized Activities: For activities requiring specific skills or heightened safety measures, such as swimming or rock climbing, the ratio is adjusted to 1:5 to provide enhanced supervision and instruction.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Rigorous Selection: Their hiring process is thorough, involving multiple interviews, background checks, and reference verifications to ensure they recruit capable and trustworthy individuals.
Diverse Expertise: They seek staff with diverse skills and backgrounds, including educators, artists, athletes, and environmentalists, to deliver a wide range of programs.
Experience and Passion: Preference is given to candidates with proven experience in youth education and a genuine passion for working with children. Many of Their staff are former campers who embody the spirit and values of Camp Kesher.

Training and Certifications

Mandatory Training: Before the camp season begins, all staff undergo a comprehensive training program that covers camp policies, emergency procedures, conflict resolution, and activity leadership.
CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. Certifications are kept up-to-date to ensure preparedness for any health or safety emergencies.
Specialized Certifications: Staff leading specific activities, such as lifeguards or rock climbing instructors, hold additional certifications relevant to their areas of expertise, such as Water Safety Instructor (WSI) or Certified Climbing Instructor.

Continuous Development

Ongoing Training: Throughout the camp season, they conduct regular workshops and debrief sessions to refine skills, share feedback, and continuously improve the quality of their programs.
Professional Development: They encourage staff to pursue further education and certifications, and they support their professional growth by offering opportunities to attend workshops and courses related to their roles.

The dedication and expertise of the staff at Camp Kesher are fundamental to creating an environment where campers feel safe, valued, and excited to explore, learn, and grow. Their team’s commitment ensures that every camper’s experience is both enjoyable and enriching.

Safety and Health in Camp Kesher

Camp Kesher takes the safety and health of its campers and staff very seriously, implementing robust protocols and maintaining comprehensive facilities to ensure a secure and nurturing environment. Here’s an overview of their safety measures, health facilities, and emergency policies:

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Comprehensive Training: All staff members undergo extensive training in emergency preparedness, including fire safety, severe weather protocols, and lockdown procedures.
Regular Drills: Campers and staff participate in regular safety drills to ensure everyone knows how to respond in various emergency situations.
Activity Safety: Each activity is supervised by staff trained in that specific area, and safety gear (like helmets and life jackets) is mandatory for activities such as biking and water sports.
Security Measures: The camp is equipped with a secure perimeter, and all visitors must check in at the main office. Security personnel are present to monitor the campgrounds.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: Camp Kesher features a well-equipped health center staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and on-call doctors.
24/7 Availability: Medical staff are available around the clock to address any health issues that may arise, ensuring timely and effective care.
Medication Management: The health center manages and dispenses all camper medications according to physician instructions to ensure proper treatment.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a detailed emergency response plan that is regularly reviewed and updated. This plan includes protocols for handling natural disasters, medical emergencies, and other urgent situations.
Communication: In case of an emergency, Camp Kesher has a clear communication plan to inform parents and guardians. This includes immediate notification through phone calls and emails, followed by regular updates as the situation evolves.
Local Collaboration: The camp maintains strong relationships with local emergency services (fire, police, medical) to ensure a quick and coordinated response when needed. Regular meetings and joint drills help keep these relationships strong and response times fast.

Health and Wellness Programs

Wellness Education: In addition to responding to health issues, their medical staff also conducts regular health and wellness education sessions for campers, covering topics like nutrition, personal hygiene, and sun safety.

At Camp Kesher, the safety and well-being of every camper and staff member are their top priorities. Through diligent preparation, comprehensive training, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of care, they strive to create a safe, healthy, and enjoyable environment for all.

Cost and Registration in Camp Kesher

Camp Kesher is committed to providing an enriching camp experience at an affordable cost, with transparent pricing, flexible payment options, and financial support available for those who need it. Here’s a breakdown of the cost, registration process, and financial policies:

Cost of Attendance

Inclusive Pricing: The cost of attending Camp Kesher varies depending on the length of the session and the specific programs chosen. Generally, fees range from $500 for one-week sessions to $1,500 for a full-summer program. This cost includes all lodging, meals, activities, supplies, and camp t-shirts.
Additional Costs: Some specialized programs or outings may require an additional fee, which will be clearly stated during the registration process.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Online Registration: Registration for Camp Kesher is handled through their online portal. Prospective campers can fill out an application form, choose their session, and select any specific programs they wish to join.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens in January and continues until all spots are filled. Early registration is encouraged as some sessions and programs fill up quickly.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Understanding that families have different budgets, Camp Kesher offers flexible payment plans. Families can choose to pay in full upon registration or opt for a monthly installment plan.
Refunds and Cancellations: If cancellation occurs more than 30 days before the session start date, a full refund minus a nominal administrative fee is offered. For cancellations within 30 days of the session start, 50% of the total cost is refunded. No refunds are provided once the session has started, except in cases of medical emergencies.
Insurance Option: Families are encouraged to consider purchasing camp insurance to cover potential unforeseen cancellations.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: Camp Kesher offers need-based scholarships to help reduce the cost for families in financial need. The application for a scholarship can be completed concurrently with the camp registration.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through various grants and fundraising efforts made by the camp community.

Camp Kesher strives to make its programs accessible to as many young people as possible, regardless of their financial situation. By offering various pricing options, financial aid, and a straightforward registration process, they ensure that all interested families have the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits of camp.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Kesher

Preparing for a session at Camp Kesher is an exciting process for both campers and their parents. To ensure everyone is ready for a fantastic camp experience, here’s a comprehensive guide to packing, understanding camp rules, and helpful tips for first-time attendees.

Packing List

To make the most out of their time at Camp Kesher, campers should pack:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and layers for cooler evenings. Include a rain jacket, swimwear, and a sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (depending on the sleeping arrangements), and a pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, hat, and sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and a camera (non-smartphone).

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: To encourage engagement and interaction, the use of smartphones and other electronic devices is restricted at Camp Kesher. Devices are collected upon arrival and returned at departure. Emergency contact with parents is facilitated through the camp office.
Visitation: For the safety and security of campers, visitation during sessions is limited to designated family days or events, as detailed prior to the start of camp.
Behavioral Expectations: Campers are expected to follow the camp’s code of conduct, which promotes respect, kindness, and cooperation. Specific rules regarding behavior, including the handling of conflicts and adherence to safety guidelines, are clearly communicated to campers at the beginning of their session.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Engage Fully: Dive into the camp experience! Try new activities, make new friends, and be open to learning new skills.
- Communicate: If you’re feeling homesick or facing any issues, talk to your counselors. They’re there to help make your experience as enjoyable as possible.
For Parents:
- Stay Positive: When discussing camp, focus on the exciting opportunities and adventures that await. This can help alleviate any anxieties your child might have.
- Write Letters: Sending letters or care packages can help bridge the distance and give your child a tangible connection to home.
- Trust the Process: Remember that camp staff are experienced in helping children adjust and thrive. Trust them to take care of your child and handle any issues that arise.

By following these preparation tips and understanding what to bring and expect, both parents and campers can feel confident and excited about the upcoming camp experience at Camp Kesher. It’s an opportunity to grow, learn, and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Camp Kesher offers an unforgettable summer experience that combines adventure, learning, and personal growth in the picturesque setting of Portland, Oregon. With a wide array of activities ranging from outdoor adventures to creative arts, along with comprehensive safety protocols, dedicated staff, and robust facilities, Camp Kesher is committed to providing a nurturing and vibrant environment for all campers.

Whether it’s their first time at camp or they are seasoned attendees, campers will find a welcoming community where they can explore their interests, develop new skills, and forge lasting friendships. By embracing the values of community, discovery, and fun, Camp Kesher ensures that every camper leaves with cherished memories and a renewed sense of confidence and curiosity about the world around them. Join us at Camp Kesher for a summer filled with excitement, learning, and adventure!