The first few weeks of summer have flown by, and as Taste of Camp 2 and Session 2 come to a close, it’s incredible to see just how much can happen in such a short period of time. Campers who arrived excited, curious, and maybe even a little nervous are heading home with new friendships, new skills, and memories they’ll carry long after the summer ends.
For many, this week marked their very first sleep-away camp experience.
Izzy L., a Nitzanim camper, arrived excited about one thing in particular – sleeping on the top bunk.
“That actually happened,” she said. “It’s totally safe!”
Since arriving on Sunday, Izzy has embraced Camp life, spending her days playing Gaga, making friends with everyone in her cabin, and discovering the magic of Tawonga.
“I’m going to ask my parents to sign me up for a two week session as soon as I get home!”
Peter C., also a first time Nitzanim camper, quickly found his favorite moments too. From riding boats on the lake to dancing with friends during the silent disco at Carnival, he jumped right into everything Camp had to offer.
Throughout the week, campers bonded through backpacking, cooled off during free swim, explored Jewish themes and prayers, and sang with full hearts during song session. Whether trying something for the first time or returning to a favorite activity, each day started and ended in joyful Jewish community.
The excitement reached a new level with one of Camp’s most anticipated traditions: Carnival.
The end of camp Carnival evening was filled with games, music, treats, and endless fun. Every corner offered something unique, from juggling with the Garden Kitchen staff and fortune telling to a high-energy silent disco dance party.
For returning campers, Carnival was another reminder of the traditions that make Tawonga feel like home.
Eagle N. in B-6 has been coming to Camp for nine years and says the sense of belonging that he feels in this Jewish community is what keeps him coming back.
“Everybody’s so nice and cares for everyone,” Eagle said. “It’s like we’re all one.”
He also loves the opportunities Camp provides to grow alongside his bunkmates.
“We get to do so many fun things, like backpacking trips outside of camp,” Eagle said. “It’s super fun and helps us bond with our cabin.”
That same spirit of growth extends to those leading campers. Jasper S., a Counselor-in-Training (CIT), said his summer has “been fantastic.”
“I love working with kids,” he said. “I’ve made so many new connections.”
His favorite part of the experience has been watching younger campers grow their confidence as they navigate Camp — the same journey he once experienced as a young camper.
As the session wraps up and we close out these incredible first few weeks of the summer, one thing is clear: whether it was a camper’s first time sleeping away from home or their ninth summer returning to Tawonga, everyone leaves with something new. From everyday moments like singing arm in arm during song session, collaborating during Capture the Flag or soccer, and splashing in the pool to unforgettable celebrations like Carnival, these are the experiences that make Camp feel like home.
See below for photos from Carnival and more snapshots from the final 24 hours of the session!
