The essence of Camp Twelve Trails is our dedication to universally shared values central to Jewish life. Our proactive integration of these values into everything we do supports children of all backgrounds and helps them grow into better people. Our warm, welcoming culture fosters a vibrant camp community where we all look out for each other and take care of the world around us.

After five days full of fun and activity, we end each week by coming together to recognize our accomplishments, celebrate in song, and reflect to welcome the Sabbath.

Our Neighborhood Approach

Upon registration, campers select from different tracks of interest we call “Neighborhoods.” This concept allows campers to strengthen their skills in their favorite specialty while also encouraging them to explore new areas. Deep friendships evolve as they engage with others who share their interests, and campers begin to learn how to make positive confident choices.

For those entering K – GRADE 2

Children entering Kindergarten through those entering 2nd grade will have a full camp schedule with activities across all Neighborhoods. This allows younger campers to experience a range of activities and empowers them to make informed program choices when they return each year. 

for those entering grades 3 – 6

Each week, campers entering 3rd grade through 6th grade select a Neighborhood that offers them specialized programming. Half the day is spent immersed in the Neighborhood activities, while the rest of the day is spent enjoying traditional camp offerings including instructional and recreational swimming. Campers can focus on one Neighborhood the whole summer or mix it up each week and try a little of everything. Whichever direction they choose, days will be jam-packed with fun. It’s your journey, so you get to do the things you love while trying something new. 

DEVELOPment AND GROWth

All campers will learn about the world around them and about themselves, improve the skills they have, and develop new ones. Campers will participate in this daily excitement as part of a caring community that actively supports its members and tries to make the world a better place. 

Our Connection to Israel as a Jewish Day Camp

Camp Twelve Trails has a long and cherished relationship with Israel and supports its right to exist as the homeland of the Jewish people. We affirm and celebrate this relationship and its diverse cultures, languages, and foods through Israel-inspired programming and the inclusion of Israeli staff each summer. We do not take political positions.

We believe in forging a path where, rather than focusing on what separates us, we can connect with the values that bring us together in a nurturing setting such as Camp Twelve Trails.

Partners

Camp Twelve Trails combines the best of the popular day camps of the Shames JCC on the Hudson, The Riverdale YM-YWHA, and YM&YWHA of Washington Heights & Inwood. Warm, accepting, and driven by Jewish values, Camp Twelve Trails brings together the accumulated day camp expertise and tradition of these three organizations. We draw on our collective educational, recreational, and child development experience, our values, and our rich history to give families more than we ever have before.