Summer Camps
just 2 1/2 hours from boston
Looking for an unforgettable sleepaway camp near Boston? Just 2½ hours from the city, Camp Jewell YMCA in Colebrook, Connecticut is a classic New England overnight camp where kids trade screens for sunshine and discover the confidence that comes from adventure, friendship, and belonging. For more than 125 years, Camp Jewell has welcomed campers from Massachusetts and beyond to explore the outdoors—swimming in our private lake, riding at Hide-A-Way Ranch, tackling our ropes courses, and creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether your child joins our traditional overnight camp, ranch program, or teen leadership experience, they’ll return home more independent, connected, and inspired.
Why boston area Families Choose Camp Jewell
Close to Home, Yet a World Away
Only about two and a half hours from the Boston area, Camp Jewell is an easy weekend drive along I-90, far enough to feel like a true escape, but close enough for peace of mind.
Safe, Supportive, and Accredited
With small cabin groups and ACA accreditation, we ensure your child is cared for by highly trained, compassionate staff.
Unplugged Adventures
From sunrise canoeing to campfire sing-alongs, kids rediscover joy outdoors — no phones, no distractions, just pure summer fun.
A Community of Belonging
At Camp Jewell, every child is welcomed and valued. We live our belief that everyone belongs before they arrive.
Accessible for All
Our tiered pricing system and financial assistance options ensure that every family can participate — and every camper enjoys the same high-quality experience regardless of cost.
Getting to Camp from Boston Area
Approximate Drive Time: ~2 hours
I-90, (Mass Pike)
Exit 3, go south on Rt. 202 (8 miles).
Then take Rt. #57 west to New Boston (17 miles). Rt. 57 will intersect with Rt. #8 at a stop sign after a long descent down hill.
Turn LEFT onto Rt. 8. You’ll be going south. Go 3.6 miles after crossing the CT Border (marked with a sign), and turn RIGHT onto SANDY BROOK RD.
Sandy Brook winds along the brook for 4.4 miles till you come to a stop sign (your first one).
Turn RIGHT onto Rt. 183, and proceed .5 miles till you see the signs into Camp Jewell. There is a Camp Jewell sign indicating a RIGHT turn onto PROCK HILL RD, and into Camp Jewell.
Equestrian / Ranch Camp
For Beginner Through Advanced Riders
At Hide-A-Way Ranch, horses are more than an activity — they’re a way of life. Riders ages 7–16 learn English-style riding, horse care, and barn management, with a 1:3 staff-to-camper ratio.
Through our nine-level Neckerchief Achievement Program, campers gain skills, confidence, and leadership — all while enjoying the full Camp Jewell experience.
What Our Campers and Parents Say
Teen Leadership Programs
Training for Teens Ages 15-16
Our Leaders-in-Training (LIT) and Counselors-in-Training (CIT) programs help teens develop communication, problem-solving, and mentoring skills in a supportive, hands-on environment.
It’s the next step in the Camp Jewell journey — preparing campers to become leaders in their schools, communities, and future careers.
CAMP CLIO
Register for Camp TODAY
The best summer is right around the corner
Camp Jewell YMCA is more than just a summer camp — it’s a community where every child belongs. Here, campers build lifelong friendships, develop new skills, and create memories that last a lifetime. In a safe and supportive environment, they explore the outdoors, challenge themselves, and grow into confident, capable leaders.
Our caring staff ensure that every camper feels valued, included, and inspired to discover their full potential.
Don’t miss out on the summer adventure of a lifetime — register today!
Affordable for Every Family
We believe every child deserves the Camp Jewell experience. For the 2026 summer season, families with a household income under $100,000 qualify for financial assistance.
In addition, our flexible “pay what you can afford” tiered pricing system offers three rate levels — so every family can choose the option that works best for them, without financial stress.
