Do you remember those long summers days basking in the sun? Or summer nights with the scent of marshmallows toasting over the fire? Come and relive your Jewish camp experience as we welcome you to the memory of summer’s past: JCC Family Camp on August 8 -10.

The JCC General Manager of Camps & Early Learning School, Courtney Jacobson, says that it’s now “a long weekend where time folds in on itself and everyone gets to play on equal footing.” On Friday, enjoy a Shabbat service, traditional Shabbat dinner, and Oneg. Shabbat at Ranch Camp is its own form of magic. Lanterns light the dirt paths. The sounds of acoustic guitar and timeless blessings drift amongst the crowd. “Most guests haven’t had a Ranch Camp Shabbat since their camper days,” Courtney notes. “Seeing them share it with their children [and grandchildren] is incredible to witness.” Shabbat will conclude with a family event before we say l’hitrahot (see you next time) on Sunday afternoon. 

Worried about where you’ll crash after all that glow-stick limbo? Ranch Camp has you covered. Sleeping options range from private cabins (great for friend-pods!) to cozy cottages with bathrooms, modern tiny homes, and ready-made platform tents for a touch of glamping. If bunks aren’t your thing—or perhaps your calendar is too packed to commit to a whole weekend away – grab a Day Pass. You’ll get to explore activities like horseback riding, archery, and gaga. Then, head home with the taste of s’mores still on your lips. “We designed Family Camp so no one misses out just because they can’t be there for the full weekend. You can’t help but channel your 12-year-old self here,” Courtney adds. 

This weekend is not just for kids! During the day, adults can enjoy the climbing tower to beat their decades-old bell-ringing-record and then schmooze by the lodge fireplace with a beer in hand. Brooke Stern, a Family Camp alum, explains, “There aren’t many places where kids can safely explore nature these days, and the Family Camp experience at Ranch Camp is one of them. My kids even made friends that we stayed connected to all year long. For our little ones, I know they’ll feel comfortable when it’s their turn to be campers, and for our older daughter—who’s now an official Ranch camper— she enjoyed showing us her favorite spots and I love that she gets to return at summer’s end.”