Camp Jewell Sleepaway Camp — Live, Lead & Belong
For Campers Age 7-15
Where Confidence Grows, Friendships Flourish, and Every Child Belongs
For 125 summers, Camp Jewell YMCA has been more than a place to spend the summer — it’s been a community where campers discover who they are.
Nestled on 560 acres of forest, trails, and lakefront in Colebrook, Connecticut, our traditional Sleepaway (also known as Overnight) Camp gives kids the freedom to explore, build confidence, and create lifelong friendships in a safe, supportive environment.
Here, campers unplug from screens, reconnect with nature, and experience the joy of belonging to something bigger than themselves.
At Camp Jewell you belong before you arrive.
Why Families Choose Camp Jewell Sleepaway Camp
A Tradition of Trust
For over a century, families have chosen Camp Jewell as their child’s home away from home. Our legacy of leadership, safety, and care means you can send your camper with complete confidence.
Leadership in Every Cabin
Our counselors are more than staff — they’re mentors. Most were campers themselves, returning to guide the next generation. With a 1:4 staff-to-camper ratio, we ensure every child is seen, supported, and celebrated.
A Camp for Every Child
Whether your camper loves the arts, the outdoors, or the thrill of new challenges, they’ll find their place here. From morning activities to evening campfires, every day is an opportunity to grow and belong.
Connection Beyond the Summer
The friendships made at Camp Jewell last well beyond August. Campers leave with lifelong friends and a sense of community they’ll carry into school, sports, and life.
A Mission of Belonging
At Camp Jewell, we live our belief that every child belongs before they arrive. Our programs are guided by the YMCA’s core values — Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Inclusion.
What Campers Experience
Waterfront Adventures: Canoeing, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and the famous Blob.
Outdoor Skills: Archery, climbing, hiking, orienteering, and outdoor cooking.
Creative Arts: Arts & crafts, music, drama, and themed camp events.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and group games.
Cabin Connections: Campfire stories, evening reflections, and cabin bonding.
Each day balances adventure, creativity, and community, helping campers gain independence, responsibility, and a lifelong love for the outdoors.
Tiered Pricing & Financial Assistance
Camp Jewell believes every child deserves the chance to experience camp.
Our tiered pricing system and financial assistance program ensure that families can pay what they can afford — and every camper receives the same life-changing experience.
Leadership Through Experience
Leadership starts early at Camp Jewell. Campers learn to make choices, work together, and take responsibility for themselves and their group.
For teens ready for the next step, our Leaders-in-Training (LIT) and Counselors-in-Training (CIT) programs build skills in communication, teamwork, and mentorship.
Learn More About Leadership Programs »
Explore Hide-A-Way Ranch
Love horses? Camp Jewell’s Hide-A-Way Ranch offers an equestrian camp where riders ages 7–16 learn English-style riding, horse care, and leadership in the saddle — all while enjoying classic camp life.
OUR SUMMER CAMP COUNSELORS
At Camp Jewell, safety and fun always go hand in hand. With a 1:4 staff-to-camper ratio, every child receives the attention and support they need to thrive.
Our counselors complete a two-week intensive training program, equipping them with the skills and confidence to create an environment that’s both safe and full of adventure — setting the stage for the best two weeks of the summer!
What makes our team truly special is that many of them grew up here themselves. Having come through our selective leadership training programs, they bring a deep understanding of what makes Camp Jewell so meaningful. Each counselor is more than a guide — they’re a role model, mentor, and friend dedicated to every camper’s well-being.
Blending their own camp experiences with professional training, our counselors know how to create days filled with learning, laughter, and lifelong memories.
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.
