Session 2 & 2a: Weekend Magic and Challenge by Choice

Since our last update, campers have soaked up a joyful weekend full of Tawonga magic! On Friday evening, we welcomed Shabbat with a musical stroll through Camp, followed by a lively freilach (special song session) filled with singing, dancing, and an epic sunset. Saturday brought a meaningful Torah service and refreshing floats, capped off with a classic BBQ dinner on the summer solstice. On Sunday, our ITs ventured out to Tenaya Lake for a special day trip, while the rest of Camp enjoyed a laid-back day of swimming and prepping for upcoming backpacking adventures. By Monday, Camp was buzzing with energy — from Jazzercise at the pool and jewelry making at Arts & Crafts, to goat cheese making at the Garden Shed and shakshuka cooking in the Garden Kitchen. Campers are truly diving into all Tawonga has to offer as the session hits its joyful stride.

Exploring Growth on the Challenge Course

One of the most powerful experiences campers take part in at Camp is a day on our Adventure Challenge Course — a series of high and low elements nestled among the trees, guided by Tawonga’s skilled Challenge Course Facilitators and Wilderness Leaders. Here, the ethic of “challenge by choice” comes to life. Campers are invited to push themselves — physically, mentally, and emotionally — in a supportive environment where they set their own goals and define success on their own terms.

Each bunk spends a full day on the course. In the morning, campers learn about safety, communication, and teamwork, then dive into the low elements: ground-based challenges that don’t require harnesses or helmets. These activities help bunkmates build trust, support one another, and collaborate as a unified group. Whether it’s problem-solving as a team or encouraging a friend through a tricky task, the morning is all about connection and shared growth.

The afternoon brings a whole new level of adventure — literally — as campers strap on helmets and harnesses and take to the high elements. Ropes, cables, and platforms stretch through the treetops, creating opportunities for campers to climb, swing, and zip through the forest canopy. Each camper decides how far they want to go, cheered on by bunkmates and counselors below. Some reach the top, some stop halfway, and every single one is celebrated for showing up with courage and curiosity.

As Challenge Course Facilitator Abby S. shares,

“Even after just one day with a bunk, I always witness some form of growth — whether emotional or physical. No matter what, every camper leaves the Challenge Course feeling empowered, knowing they faced a challenge and conquered it.”

It’s not just about climbing or balancing — it’s about believing in yourself and being there for your friends. The Challenge Course gives campers a chance to practice important life skills like trust, communication, and resilience — all while having a blast in the great outdoors. The bonds formed out on the course are real, and the memories made often last long after campers head home.

Below, check out photos of campers conquering different Challenge Course activities, alongside snapshots of other weekend adventures across Camp.