With hundreds of summer camp programs available, deciding which overnight camp is right for your child can feel overwhelming. Most parents want a sleepaway camp their children will love returning to year after year—a place that fosters independence, builds character, and creates lifelong memories. While we hope your family will choose Camp Jewell YMCA, we also believe it’s important to understand what you should look for in any quality overnight summer camp. Below, we outline some key considerations to help you make the best choice for your camper(s).
1. The Camp’s Philosophy
A well-defined philosophy sets the tone for any sleepaway camp. At Camp Jewell YMCA, our mission is to cultivate an environment where lifelong friendships begin, children discover new interests, and valuable life skills are nurtured. We weave our four core YMCA values—caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—through every activity and interaction:
- Caring: Thinking beyond oneself to consider others and the greater good of the community.
- Honesty: Telling the truth and becoming someone others know they can trust.
- Respect: Following the Golden Rule—valuing your own sense of worth and that of others.
- Responsibility: Recognizing what is within your control and taking accountability for it.
2. Program Length
Sleepaway camps vary in session length, from one-week mini camps to multi-week programs. At Camp Jewell YMCA, we believe two-week sessions are the sweet spot for children to immerse themselves in overnight camp life, move past initial homesickness, and fully experience camp activities. This extra time ensures campers settle into the routine, form deeper friendships, and gain greater independence before they head back home.
3. Cost and Financial Assistance
Costs can vary significantly among summer camps. At Camp Jewell YMCA, we offer tiered pricing, allowing families to select the fee that best fits their budget. No matter which tier a family chooses, every camper enjoys the same high-quality experience. Additionally, we provide financial assistance (scholarships) for those who may need extra support, making it easier than ever for children to benefit from an overnight summer camp adventure.
4. Variety of Programs
Many parents look for a specific focus—like drama, sports, or art—when choosing a sleepaway camp. At Camp Jewell YMCA, we run what we call “traditional camp,” offering a diverse range of activities so campers can explore a little bit of everything. We also have specialty programs in leadership and ranch (equestrian) activities. Whether your child loves outdoor adventure, creative arts, or sports, our programming ensures they’ll find something they’re passionate about.
5. Safety and Accreditation
Safety is paramount for any overnight camp. Look for camps accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), which sets industry standards for health, safety, and program quality. Camp Jewell YMCA proudly meets more than 300 ACA standards covering all aspects of camp life—facilities, staff training, program activities, and emergency procedures. In addition, we’re fully licensed by the State of Connecticut. This commitment to accreditation gives parents peace of mind, knowing that their children’s well-being is always our top priority.
6. Facilities
From rustic cabins to modern, year-round accommodations, summer camps offer varying levels of comfort. At Camp Jewell YMCA, our 16 cabins are nestled around the shores of Triangle Lake. Most are winterized with central common rooms, heat, electricity, bathrooms, showers, and personal cubbies. Our Ewok cabins, providing a more rustic experience for 12- and 13-year-old boys, are tucked into the trees. By 2022, we introduced additional brand-new cabins—some with scenic porches overlooking the lake. We continuously upgrade our facilities to ensure campers enjoy a comfortable, safe environment.
7. Health Care
Even though it’s rare for campers to fall ill or sustain injuries at sleepaway camp, it’s crucial to choose a program equipped to handle health concerns. Camp Jewell YMCA has a fully staffed, well-equipped Health Center with on-site nurses (three per session), and all our counselors are trained in First Aid and CPR. If a camper does feel unwell, they can rest in our Health Center for up to 24 hours; parents will be contacted if the child’s condition requires further attention or extended care.
8. Exceptional Counselors
A summer camp is only as good as its staff. Before selecting an overnight camp, ask about background checks, training, and staff qualifications. At Camp Jewell YMCA, we handpick counselors based on maturity, character, and leadership potential. Many are former campers who have progressed through our three-year Leadership Training Program, while others come from colleges across the U.S. and around the globe—giving our camper community a rich, diverse atmosphere.
9. Open Communication with Parents
You’re entrusting your child to an overnight summer camp, so it’s essential to know how the camp communicates with parents. At Camp Jewell YMCA, we make it a priority to keep you informed and involved:
- Positive, Supportive Community: We pledge to offer your child a safe environment where they can make new friends, discover new activities, and grow in independence.
- Daily Photo Updates: Parents can see what their child is up to via daily photo uploads. We want you to share in the joy of their camp adventures.
- Counselor Emails: Within the first few days of each session, counselors will email a brief update on how your child is adjusting.
- Prompt Responses: If you call us with any questions or concerns, we’ll respond before the end of the following meal.
- Social Media and Blog Updates: Stay in the loop with weekly news and stories from camp.
- Parent Portal: Our website hosts a “Parent Portal” with resources to help you and your child prepare for camp.
Ready to Make the Right Choice for Your Camper?
Choosing the perfect sleepaway camp can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to look for—and what truly matters—will help you make an informed decision. At Camp Jewell YMCA, we’re dedicated to offering a safe, enriching, and memorable experience that keeps campers returning year after year. From our strong YMCA values to our ACA accreditation and top-notch facilities, we strive to create an environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive.
If you’re looking for an overnight summer camp where friendships are forged, life skills are developed, and fun is endless, we’d love to welcome your family to Camp Jewell YMCA. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to learn more about our programs, facilities, and enrollment options. We can’t wait to help your child discover the magic of summer camp!
