Considering Kingswood
What is the Kingswood program like?
JCC Maccabi Camp Kingswood has a broad curriculum that emphasizes fun and community-building in a Jewish context. Sports, outdoor life, cultural and performing arts programming, together with bunk, unit and all-camp activities, offer campers lots of opportunities to make friends, improve skills, and try new things in a positive, supportive environment.
When can I see the camp?
If you are considering camp for your child, the best time to visit is during the summer, while we are in session. In the off season, we invite you to attend an open house or camp fair. We would also be happy to visit you, in your home, at your convenience. For more information, please contact us at info@kingswood.org.
Is financial assistance available?
The JCC, with the support of generous individual and foundation donors, offers financial assistance on the basis of financial need only. Assistance is awarded on a first come, first served basis. For more information and a confidential conversation, please contact the Camp Director at info@kingswood.org.
Camp Life
How big is Kingswood?
About 300 boys and girls attend Kingswood each summer and are supervised by a staff of about 75.
How are campers supervised?
Every child lives in a cabin with 8 to 12 campers and two to three counselors, who undergo an intensive week-long training seminar prior to camp. At least one of the bunk counselors is with the campers during cabin clean-up, free-time, Rest Hour and in the evening as they get ready for bed and once lights are out. Many counselors and junior counselors are former campers; staff are also recruited from around North America and Israel.
Each program area of camp is led by an experienced specialist. The swim area and boating programs are supervised by staff who are all American Red Cross-certified lifeguards, sailing and canoe instructors and participate in a rigorous water safety training program at camp. Archery, ropes course and climbing tower staff are also appropriately trained and certified.
All Kingswood staff are carefully screened and background checks are completed prior to camp.
What are the cabins like?
All of the cabins and bath/shower houses have either been renovated or newly built over the past several summers. The youngest and oldest girls live in cabins with lavatories. Showers and additional lavatories are only a short walk on a well-lit path. All of the boy's bunks have lavatories, and they share one large, centrally located shower house.
How are campers placed in cabins?
In general, they are assigned to cabins based on age.
Can I request for my child to be in the same bunk with a friend?
You are welcome to make a request on the camp application. We make every effort to accommodate friends who want to be together—it’s part of the fun!
What is the camp’s Jewish content?
Personal growth and development, outdoor living and Jewish values form the core of our program; we model respect for each other and for the environment; cooperation; and community. We celebrate Shabbat and say blessings before and after each meal; we learn about Jewish history and Israel. The camp kitchen is kosher and kosher food is served at our offsite programs as well. However, no particular Jewish education or background is presumed or expected of campers or staff—and everyone, no matter what their beliefs, is welcome.