The sleep-away camp experience provides children and teens with an opportunity to practice independent living skills (eg. keeping track of their stuff and making sure to shower), to improve their social skills (living with peers 24/7 is awesome and kids learn how to get along), and to gain self-confidence (master a new skill, go without screens, learn new Hebrew words) in their own abilities. Here at Ramah, the typical sleep-away experience is woven together with Jewish life. Each day includes Jewish song, prayer, Hebrew, food, Israel education, and so much more, feeding campers’ Jewish identities in ways that literally last a lifetime. To send a child to Ramah is to give them a gift of self-discovery and Jewish exploration. Relationships that last well beyond summers at camp.

Your child may be begging to go to camp but your gut tells you waiting one more year may be beneficial OR your child may be expressing appropriate hesitation and reservations but you’re confident she’ll do fine once at camp. Here are a few helpful indicators that a child is ready for sleep-away camp: Your child can identify elements of camp he or she is looking forward to participating in (swimming, Israeli dance, meeting new friends, etc.). Your child has had some successful experiences at sleepovers or staying with relatives. Your child has demonstrated the ability to handle independent self-care skills such as brushing their teeth, changing clothing, showering, etc.

Rising 3rd graders are only eligible for our two week Gesher program. Rising 4th and 5th graders may participate in our Gesher program OR our 4-week Nitzanim program. We offer these two possibilities as we recognize that at these ages some kids are ready and eager for a full month and others would benefit from a shorter experience. There are some differences in daily schedules and activities but both programs offer a great introduction to Ramah with a focus on getting kids familiar with camp, engaged in activities, and making new friends. Reach out to us if you are unsure of which program would best suit your child.

Yes! Check out our financial assistance page for more information.

We offer opportunities to visit camp during the year. Reach out to leah@ramah.org to learn more about when and how to visit us in Ojai.

Please note that there is always transportation from San Diego for the start and end of Session 1 and 2. For the first day of Gesher Bet and Dalet and the last day of Gesher Aleph and Gimmel, our transportation will depend on the number of campers from the area. If you have questions, please contact Ben Strom (ben@ramah.org).