We foster a love and connection to the people and land of Israel, as our ancestral homeland and also as the present-day country with its own vibrant culture, language, stories, challenges, and complexities. For over ten years, we have welcomed campers from kibbutzim and Moshavim in Otef Aza, near the border of Gaza, to spend a few weeks of their summer at Herzl. Our Israeli campers and staff bring a magical energy to the entire camp experience. Click here to hear about our Israeli Camper Program directly from our campers and staff.
Amid the ongoing situation in Israel, Herzl Camp is upholding our values of inclusivity and open dialogue. We foster a welcoming environment where campers and staff engage in facilitated and informal discussions, encouraging understanding and empathy through education about Israel and Zionism. While navigating the complexities of the conflict, Herzl Camp emphasizes the importance of respectful dialogue. Through this we are proud to usher in the next generation of Jewish leaders and a love of Israel in our camp community.
SHABBAT
Many of our campers say that Shabbat is their favorite time at Camp. Shabbat officially begins with our traditional caravan as we walk through Camp, picking up every cabin, dressed in white clothing. Shabbat at Camp might be different than how you celebrate at home (one of the many things that make Jewish camping special).
Campers and staff caravan to the Mercaz, overlooking Devil’s Lake, for Friday night services. After services, the campers are welcomed to the Chadar Ochel (dining hall) for a delicious Shabbat dinner and a beautiful song session led by our song leaders. On Saturday, we continue celebrating Shabbat with a Torah service. We expect all to be respectful during services and throughout all Shabbat programming.
Throughout Shabbat, we alter our activities to make the day more restful, relaxing, and different from the rest of the week. Some camp activities, like water skiing, photography, and Mitbach (teaching kitchen), are not offered. Shabbat ends with Havdallah on Saturday evening as Camp gathers to wish each other a Shavua Tov, a good week. Following Havdallah, a ruach-filled Israeli dance session is led by our Israeli staff.