Summer Camps

The Best Sleepaway Camp for fairfield county Families-

The Perfect Summer Camp is Just a Short Drive Away

Looking for an unforgettable sleepaway camp near Fairfield County? For generations, families from Stamford, Westport, Ridgefield, Trumbull, and Fairfield have chosen Camp Jewell YMCA for the ideal blend of outdoor adventure, safety, and community.

Located in Colebrook, Connecticut—less than 1½ hours from Fairfield County—Camp Jewell offers an easy drive to a place that feels worlds away. Campers trade screens for sunshine, discover new skills, and build lifelong friendships in a caring, inclusive environment built on the YMCA values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Why Fairfield county Families Choose Camp Jewell

Close to Home, Far from Ordinary
Camp Jewell is just over an hour north, nestled in the beautiful hills of Northwest Connecticut. It’s an easy drive for weekend visits or drop-offs—yet far enough for a true camp adventure.

Safe and Supportive
Accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), our staff-to-camper ratio ensures personalized attention and a nurturing experience.

Unplugged and Outdoors
Campers enjoy a break from technology and connect with the outdoors through swimming, hiking, and classic camp traditions.

Programs for Every Age and Interest
From Sleepaway Camp to Ranch Camp, Day Camp, and Leadership Programs (LIT/CIT), there’s something for everyone.

A Welcoming Community
Campers come from across Connecticut, New York, and beyond—building friendships that last long after summer ends.

Getting to Camp from Fairfield County

Approximate drive time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

Quick Route:

  1. Take Merritt Parkway (Route 15) to Route 8 or ….

  2. Take Route 7 North toward Danbury and merge onto I-84 East toward Waterbury. Then take Exit 19 for Route 8 North toward Torrington/Winsted.

  3. In Winsted, turn RIGHT onto Route 44 (Main Street).

  4. Continue 2.2 miles, then RIGHT onto Route 183 (Colebrook Road).

  5. Follow for 7.2 miles until you see the Camp Jewell sign and turn RIGHT onto Prock Hill Road.

Sleepaway Camp

For Campers Age 7-15

Our traditional overnight camp is the heart of Camp Jewell. Campers enjoy swimming, climbing, arts and crafts, sports, campfires, and special theme days — all while building independence and friendships that last a lifetime.

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

The Martinez Family, Rye, NY
The Martinez Family, Rye, NY
We’ve been sending our kids to Camp Jewell for three summers from Rye. It’s just a two-hour drive and completely worth it. They’ve grown more confident and independent every year.” —
The Bennett Family, Scarsdale, NY
The Bennett Family, Scarsdale, NY
“As Westchester parents, we love that it’s close enough for an easy drop-off, but far enough that our kids really feel like they’re getting away.”

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

A CAMP FOR ADOPTED CHILDREN
Camp Clio at Camp Jewell provides a safe and supportive environment where adopted children can explore their birth stories and connect with others who share similar experiences. In this nurturing, judgment-free space, they can find comfort in knowing they are not alone. Campers enjoy all the traditional camp activities and programs, with one key difference: every camper is adopted.

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.