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 settle in, build real friendships, and discover everything camp has to offer.
Parents often ask, “Why not one-week sessions?”
The answer goes right to the heart of what makes Camp Jewell so special.
Time to Truly Unplug and Settle In
The first few days of camp are all about adjustment — new faces, new routines, and new adventures.
In a shorter one-week session, campers are just starting to feel comfortable when it’s time to pack up. But during the second week, something wonderful happens:
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Campers find their rhythm and confidence.
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They relax into the flow of camp life.
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They start leading cheers and welcoming new friends.
That extra time is what transforms camp from a fun trip into a meaningful experience.
Deeper Friendships, Stronger Community
Two weeks together means shared memories, inside jokes, and teamwork that turn bunkmates into lifelong friends.
Cabins bond through moments like:
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Evening campfires and cabin embers
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Group challenges and adventure courses
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Shared mealtimes full of laughter and songs
Those deeper relationships are what campers remember most — and what keep them coming back year after year.
Growth That Lasts Beyond the Summer
Research from the American Camp Association shows that longer sessions lead to stronger outcomes in resilience, social skills, and independence.
At Camp Jewell, the first week is all about trying new things.
By week two, campers are mastering them — climbing higher, paddling farther, or taking the lead in activities.
That’s where confidence and self-esteem grow naturally.
More Variety, More Adventure
Two-week sessions let campers truly explore.
They get to try more activities, discover new passions, and even return to their favorites for another round.
Highlights include:
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Leadership opportunities for older campers
That extra time means they leave camp with new skills and unforgettable stories.
The Second Week Is When the Magic Happens
Ask any returning camper or counselor, and they’ll tell you:
“The second week is when it really feels like home.”
That’s when campers stop worrying about what comes next and start living fully in the moment — laughing with friends, singing around the fire, and realizing how capable they truly are.
A Camp Experience That Stays With You
Camp Jewell’s two-week sessions aren’t just about filling time — they’re about creating space for kids to grow, connect, and belong.
Every summer we see campers return home more confident, more independent, and more themselves.
Ready to give your child the full Camp Jewell experience?
Explore our Two-Week Sleepaway Camp Sessions and check out our dates and rates to see why families from Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, and beyond call Camp Jewell their home away from home.
