125 Summers of COMMUNITY, Leadership & Outdoor Adventure in Connecticut
For 125 years, Camp Jewell YMCA in Colebrook, CT, has served as one of the premier overnight camps in New England, less than 2 hours from New York and Fairfield County, and 2 1/2 hours from Boston. As part of the YMCA of Greater Hartford, our mission fuses tradition with innovation: helping campers grow in confidence, connect through meaningful relationships, and belong in a diverse, supportive community.
Set on 560 acres of woodlands, trails, lakefront, and our own Hide-A-Way Ranch, Camp Jewell offers campers a balance of choice and structure: from horseback riding and wilderness skills, to daily swim and creative arts. Our leadership, CIT, and LIT programs amplify campers’ voices and growth beyond just fun and games.
Whether your child is new to camp or returning, they’ll find a home here — free from devices, full of laughter, and rich with opportunity.
SLEEPAWAY CAMP
EQUESTRIAN CAMP
HIDE-A-WAY RANCH HORSE CAMP
TEEN LEADERSHIP
TEEN LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS (CIT/LIT)
COUNTDOWN TO CAMP
OUR STORY
FOSTERING
GROWTH
since 1901
A Tradition of Growth Since 1901
For 125 years, Camp Jewell YMCA has been a place where children grow, connect, and belong. Our camp blends timeless traditions with innovative programs that help campers thrive—on the trail, in the cabin, and long after summer ends.
A Community for Everyone
As a branch of the YMCA of Greater Hartford, we welcome campers from Connecticut, Westchester County, and New York City, and beyond, creating a diverse, inclusive environment where every child feels at home. Our flexible tiered pricing system ensures that camp is accessible to all families.
MAKE AN IMPACT
Help Keep The Camp Jewell Magic Alive!
Donating to Camp Jewell YMCA makes a lasting difference by providing kids with life-changing experiences they might not otherwise have. Every donation helps us offer scholarships, enhance programs, and ensure that no child is turned away due to financial need. At Camp Jewell, kids learn confidence, build friendships, and connect with nature in ways that shape their futures. Your support allows us to continue fostering these unforgettable moments for the next generation of campers.
DISCOVER
CAMP JEWELL
For over 120 years we have been providing memories that last a lifetime through our programs that focus on our four core values of Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Caring.
FOR CAMPERS
FOR PARENTS
FOR GROUPS
FOR SUPPORTERS
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FROM OUR BLOG
New England’s Best Horseback Riding Summer Camp: Inside Camp Jewell’s Ranch Program
For thousands of young riders, the magic of summer lives at the barn. At Camp Jewell YMCA, nestled among the pines of the Connecticut Berkshires,
Why Two-Week Sessions Create a Deeper Camp Experience
At Camp Jewell YMCA, we believe that the best summer experiences can’t be rushed. That’s why our sessions last two weeks, giving campers time to
10 Questions to Ask Before Sending Your Child to Sleepaway Camp
Choosing a sleepaway camp is a big decision, one that can shape a child’s confidence, independence, and love for the outdoors for years to come.
Why Every Teen Should Spend a Summer as a CIT
There comes a time when camp stops being just about the games, songs, and s’mores—and starts becoming about growth, leadership, and giving back. For many
How Payment Plans & Financial Aid Work
At Camp Jewell YMCA, we believe every child deserves the chance to experience the magic of summer camp, regardless of their family’s financial situation. For
