Limited spots are available to join us this summer! Explore here. 🌲 Check out family camps and adult retreats this fall. Refer a friend who’s new to Tawonga, and both save $150.

Est. 1925 · Jewish Summer Camp · Near Yosemite

Where Kids Build Confidence, Jewish Community & Friendships That Last a Lifetime

Tawonga. Every season. Always home.

A century of immersive experiences for children in joyful Judaism and loving community at our nature-based residential camp in the California Sierra.

Why Tawonga

More Than a Summer Camp

 For over 100 years, families have trusted Tawonga to give their children an experience that shapes who they become, rooted in Jewish values, adventure, and community

Jewish Values & Identity

Shabbat under the stars, meaningful traditions, and a community where Jewish identity is celebrated and explored.

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Community & Belonging

 Kids find their people. The friendships built at Tawonga last decades – ask any alum.

Nature & Adventure

Located near Yosemite on the Tuolumne River. Hiking, swimming, climbing help kids unplug and discover the outdoors.

A Day at Summer Camp

Every day is an adventure, from morning river dips to a ropes course in the trees to campfire songs  under the stars. Kids try things they’ve never done, make friends they’ll keep forever, and come home a little more themselves.

No screens. No pressure. Just the freedom and fun of childhood

A Typical Day

  • Breakfast and morning song session
  • Morning activity blocks: swimming, art, music, sports
  • Afternoon activity blocks: river time, ropes course, free choice, cooking
  • Dinner and song session
  • Evening program: campfire, stargazing, Shabbat, disco dance, carnival!

Why Tawonga

More Than a Summer Camp

For nearly 100 years, families have trusted Tawonga to give their children an experience that shapes who they become — rooted in Jewish values, adventure, and lifelong friendships.

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My daughter came home from her first summer and said ‘I finally found my people.’ She’s going back for her 6th year this summer.

Sarah M.

Summer Camp parent

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Tawonga gave our kids a Jewish identity they actually love. The traditions, the songs, the community — it’s something our synagogue alone couldn’t provide.

Jennifer L.

Summer Camp parent

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Tawonga is a camp filled with joy, nature, and community. Truly a special place for youth and families!

Meghan S.

Summer Camp parent

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We’re in such a strong bubble with a very strong sense of community that’s not found in many other places. Being at camp is so magical, and it’s so good for your self-esteem.

Evy M.

Camper

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The best place. The best people. The best experiences.

Zoe C.

Former camper and summer staff member

What’s Happening at Tawonga

The Latest

Chapter 4: Get Groovy in the 1970s!

In the early 1970s, a group of Tawongans made a small but history-altering shift. “The Shenandoah” became “The Tuolumne.” “Blue Ridge Mountains” became “Sierra Mountains.” With just a few words, a 1971 Billboard Top 100 song was transformed into something deeply personal – a tradition that would echo through the Dining Hall for generations to come.

Tune into the Summer Magic!

Get the scoop on all the happenings at Camp on our blog! You can even opt in to receive notifications for certain categories. Camper families can see more updates when their child is at camp via the Campanion App.

Find Respite at our Adult-Only Retreats

You don’t want to miss out on our Women’s Weekend (Oct 15 – 18) and Men’s Weekend (Oct 22 – 25). Adult Retreats at Tawonga are the perfect mix of nature exploration, Jewish Community building, yoga and restorative wellness activities, music, and more!

Join us at a Family Camp Weekend

We have space in our Fall family camp weekend programs! Join us at one of our weekends, including special affinity spaces for families with LGBTQ+ adults and Jewish Families of Color. Refer a new family or opt-in to share a cabin with another family for program discounts.

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The Canteen

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