Camp Jewell YMCA
Camp Jewell YMCA

celebrating 125 Summers of sleep away camp 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

SLEEPAWAY CAMP

Traditional overnight camp — ages 7-15
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EQUESTRIAN CAMP

HIDE-A-WAY RANCH HORSE CAMP

At Camp Jewell YMCA’s Hide-a-Way Ranch, our sleepaway equestrian camp offers a unique experience for both beginner and advanced riders.
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TEEN LEADERSHIP

TEEN LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS (CIT/LIT)

Our Leadership Programs provide an amazing experience focused on individual development, team building, and self-discovery all while having fun at camp.
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COUNTDOWN TO CAMP

Days
Hours

OUR STORY

FOSTERING

GROWTH

since 1901

ABOUT US

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.

This is the best summer camp ever. This is my second home, the place where I feel the safest, happiest, best. I have been coming to Camp Jewell for 4 years and loved it more each year I went back. The counselors are AMAZING and the people you will meet will stay with you your entire life. I would recommend this camp to anyone.
Camp Jewell Camper
Camp Jewell CamperCamper
This is the 3rd year my daughter has attended Camp Jewell during the summer. The counselors and staff are amazing. My daughter loves it and no sooner do I see her at pickup, does she ask me to sign her up for next year.
Camp Jewell Parent
Camp Jewell ParentParent
My kids have gone to Jewell for many years. Their experiences there have shaped them. They have learned valuable social skills that have prepared them for life. Their camp friends are their friends forever and they come from all walks of life. The best money I have spent on their childhood experiences, and they would agree! Camp Jewell is the best!
Camp Jewell Parent
Camp Jewell ParentCEO
Camp Jewell in Colebrook, CT is a five-star gem! From the stunning natural surroundings to the enthusiastic staff, every moment here is magical. My kids had a blast with the diverse activities, and the focus on character development is truly commendable. This camp fosters growth, fun, and unforgettable memories. Highly recommend!
George DeVita
George DeVitaCamper Parent
I have been going to Camp Jewell for about 4 years now and it is one of my favorite places on earth. The friendships that I have made here will last forever. Even when I do not see my camp friends for and entire school year, when we go back to camp it is like we never left. Not only do I have amazing memories of my friends, but also my counselors. Every counselor I had were incredibly friendly, funny and understandable. I love Camp so much and I am so exited to go back this summer and see all of my friends!
Camper
Camper CEO
Camp was such a great experience for our foster son as a day camper that he can’t wait to return this year for sleep away camp!! There’s so many activities for kids to choose from!! The best part is that it’s electronic free, they’re outside & they get to meet staff/campers from all over the world! I also want to add our foster son has autism and the staff at Jewell were great providing care for him and feedback to us as parents 💙
Camper Parent
Camper ParentCEO
I was a camper here for 7 years, and a staff member for 2 years. The activities are fun, the location is beautiful, and it has always felt like a home-away-from-home. It is a great place to unplug and connect with wonderful people, many of whom are still my close friends years later.
Alumni
AlumniCEO
This mama beat sent all 3 of her cubs off for their first time to any type of sleep away camp. So much anxiety and stress to the actual drop off day, but once we all got there and checked in it was full steam ahead. The staff were all amazing. When we came to pick them up there were tears all around at saying goodbye to all their new cabin friends and CIT's as well as their LIT's. They are all signed up to return for next year:)
Camper Parent
Camper ParentCEO

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.

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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.

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Alumni

Stay Connected

There’s no better way to stay in touch with your camp friends or reconnect with friends you haven’t seen in a while than through the Alumni Association. Join us, you’re friends are waiting for you!
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FROM OUR BLOG

EVENTS

Events

Events Search and Views Navigation

Event Views Navigation

Today

  • Summer Camp Open House

    Thinking about summer camp? Come see what all the excitement’s about! Join us for our Summer Camp Open House — an afternoon of adventure, exploration, and camp fun for the […]

  • Spring Work Weekend 2026

    Winter’s finally loosened its grip, the lake’s sparkling again, and that can only mean one thing — it’s time for Spring Work Weekend at Camp Jewell YMCA! Grab your gloves, […]

  • Summer Camp Open House

    Thinking about summer camp? Come see what all the excitement’s about! Join us for our Summer Camp Open House — an afternoon of adventure, exploration, and camp fun for the […]

  • Spring Women’s Wellness Weekend

    Escape the stress of everyday life and immerse yourself in a weekend of self-care, relaxation, and empowerment at Camp Jewell YMCA’s Women’s Wellness Weekend! Designed for women of all ages, […]

  • Memorial Day Family Camp

    Kick off summer the Camp Jewell way — with a long weekend of family fun, campfire magic, and outdoor adventure! Join us for Memorial Day Family Camp, a tradition that […]

  • Parent Child Riding Weekend

    Saddle up for a weekend of connection, confidence, and camp magic!Join us for a memorable parent–child retreat where you’ll share the joy of horses, the beauty of nature, and plenty […]

  • Labor Day Family Camp

    Say goodbye to summer with one last unforgettable weekend at Camp Jewell YMCA! Our Labor Day Family Camp is the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure — a chance to […]

  • Fall Work Weekend 2026

    Rake, Repair, and Reconnect at Camp Jewell! There’s nothing quite like autumn at Camp Jewell — crisp air, golden leaves, and that unmistakable smell of woodsmoke drifting across the lake. […]

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celebrating 125 Years of Friendship & Adventure

For generations, campers have arrived at Camp Jewell unsure of what to expect and left with lifelong friendships, newfound confidence, and memories that shape who they become.

Summer 2026 marks 125 years of this magic, and we’re celebrating with special traditions, camp-wide events, and surprises you won’t want to miss. Sessions are filling fast, and this milestone summer is expected to be our biggest yet.

Give your child a place to explore, grow, and unplug.
→ Save Your Spot for 2026

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