Creativity, Connection & Backpacking Magic

Session 4 is in full swing here at Camp Tawonga, and our campers are thriving! Since our last Session 4 update, the entire Camp came together for a truly joyful Shabbat celebration — a time to slow down, reflect, and connect as a community. From a spirited Freilach (Friday night song session) to awe-inspiring Torah services at Makom Shalom (our outdoor sanctuary beneath the trees), the Shabbat magic was palpable. You can take a closer peek here.

After recharging over the weekend – including one jam-packed talent show – we jumped right back into our regularly scheduled programming to kick off the second week of Session 4. Camp is buzzing with ruach as campers soak up every last drop of summer fun. Over the past week and a half, we’ve seen campers build fairy synagogues in the forest, whip up snacks in the Garden Kitchen, dance their hearts out in the Moadone, and cuddle goats at the farm. Whether painting with anything but brushes, sculpting clay dragons, or exploring their interests in specialty blocks like Kitchen-in-Training and Unit Gnarly, these campers are all-in — laughing, learning, and growing every step of the way.

Bunk bonding is at an all-time high, with cozy cuddle puddles, epic Gaga games, spontaneous song sessions, and late-night chats under the stars. Session 4 is known for its joyful, creative energy, and this cohort is bringing it in full force — with colorful tie-dyes hanging on clotheslines, lively song sessions echoing around Camp, and a whole lot of love packed into every moment.

One of the most unforgettable pieces of this session? Backpacking.

Backpacking Magic: Where Confidence and Connection Take Root

During Sessions 2, 3, and 4, campers have the unique opportunity to leave Tawonga’s property and venture into the majestic wilderness of Yosemite National Park and Stanislaus National Forest. These one- or two-night trips are a hallmark of the Tawonga experience — blending adventure, community, skill-building, and deep appreciation for the natural world.

This session, campers headed out to breathtaking locations, including Carlon Falls, Kibbie Lake, Tamarack Creek, Early Intake, Powell Lake, May Lake, Camp Lake, and Bear Lake. Each destination offered something spectacular: sparkling swimming holes, ancient trees, granite ridgelines, and skies so clear you could count every star.

Trips kick off with a scenic drive, followed by a trailhead meetup with Wilderness staff, then a day hike toward the campsite. Once there, bunks settle in with lunch, time to swim or explore, and plenty of games and bonding activities. As the sun dips below the trees, campers gather to cook dinner on backpacking stoves and share stories before curling up in sleeping bags — often choosing to sleep directly under the stars.

At Bear Lake, B-10 campers got to swim out to a rock island — a highlight of their session. Their counselor, Ari G., reflected on the magic of that shared moment:

“There was a great swimming lake with a rock island we got to swim out to. It was an incredible experience we shared together.”

When asked about her favorite trip of the session, Wilderness Leader, Shosh B., shared:

“Powell Lake with G-10A! It ended up snowing a bit, which was so cool. It was a lot of the campers’ first backpacking trip. Our hike made the campers feel strong, empowered, and beautiful. I love backpacking, and I love making campers love it too!”

It’s these little moments — a hike punctuated by beetle discoveries, the joy of filtering water for the first time, the way laughter sounds echoing through the pines — that leave a lasting imprint.

Wilderness Leader, Alana C., has led countless trips into the backcountry and sees the impact firsthand:

“My favorite part of these trips is getting to take kids into the backcountry and teach them how to enjoy it responsibly.”

Campers learn principles of “Leave No Trace,” how to respect wildlife, and how to coexist with nature. They return with tired feet, messy hair, full hearts — and a new sense of confidence and independence.

For many, backpacking is a moment of discovery: the first time they carry all their gear on their back, sleep under the stars without city lights, or hike further than they thought they could. It’s where resilience is built and friendships are cemented over granola bars and shared camp chores.

Camper Shiley W. from G-2B said her favorite moment of car camping was:

“Sleeping under the stars with my friends. We got to see a meteor shower!!”

As Session 4 campers return from their trips — sun-kissed and smiling — they bring stories, inside jokes, and memories that stretch far beyond the trail. Back at Camp, they’re greeted like heroes by their bunkmates and launch right back into the rhythm of floats and song sessions — a little dustier, a little stronger, and a lot more connected to the earth beneath their feet.