Community & Organization Programs
One Camp, Two Distinct Properties
Camp Jewell features two separate, full-service properties within our 540 acres. Hide-A-Way Ranch, located across the lake from Camp Jewell, is a secluded facility, perfect for smaller groups of 100 or less. Camp Jewell, with capacity for over 500, is ideal for larger groups and events. Each property has it's own dining hall, group accommodations, chapel, conference spaces and charm.
Our facilities enable us to serve thousands of visitors each year who enjoy our beautiful 540 acres, friendly staff, and innovative programs. During the summer, campers and staff come together to form a vibrant camp community. In the Fall, Winter, and Spring, Outdoor Center guests come to enjoy camp through our conference, teambuilding, and outdoor education programs. See pictures!
Exciting Activities For All
Camp Jewell has several exciting activities all year long! Summer activities include horseback riding, swimming, archery, mountain boarding, rock climbing, kayaking, pottery, guitar, high ropes, hiking, fishing, soccer and many more! Winter activities include snow tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, ice fishing, ice golf, broomball, cross-country skiing, candlemaking, arts & crafts, bbs, archery and other fun indoor programs. We even have our own snowmaking system! See pictures!
Community & Organization Programs
Please click on a program of interest below.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
YMCA Adventure Guides
A weekend at Camp Jewell is oftentimes described as the pinnacle experience for regional YMCA Adventure Guides groups. Parents and their children spend quality time together enjoying all that Camp Jewell has to offer. Exciting daytime activities are coupled with Adventure Guides ceremonies, games, campfires, and special programs in the evening.
Seasonal activities at Camp Jewell include: hiking, rock climbing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tennis, soccer, basketball, horseback riding, archery, candle making, leather craft, bouldering, arts and crafts, the mini-farm, group games, campfire, giant slide, ice-skating, cross-country skiing, snow tubing, broomball, and pretzel making.
Who participates?
YMCA Adventure Guides is for parents and their children, ages 5-9. An adult and child attend their activities together.
What does the YMCA Adventure Guides program do?
As a member of the YMCA Adventure Guides you will have the opportunity to develop a stronger relationship with your child by joining a unique “Circle” with whom you’ll participate in activities like games, camping, trips, ceremonies, and family adventures. You and your child will take a journey of discovery and learning. Throughout this journey Adventure Guides compass points – family, nature, community, fun, and the YMCA character development values – provide a sense of direction and inspiration for activities.
As a member, you will be able to participate in large scale group activities such as weekend campouts, parties, and parades. Conducting group exercises in the Circle fosters leadership, problem-solving, group work skills, and a sense of a commitment to a larger community – all of which reinforce the YMCA’s pledge to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.
"Friends Forever"
The immediate gain is evident – spending time together – but the long-term gains are even more significant. Not only will you build a solid foundation for a friendship that will last a lifetime, but you will also be helping to build and develop a set of skills and patterns that your children will carry with them into adulthood.
Which YMCA Adventure Guides groups attend Camp Jewell?
Please contact Katie Jilek, Outdoor Center Director, katie.jilek@ghymca.org or 888-412-2267 to register or for more information.
How do I join an Adventure Guides group at my local YMCA?
If you are a member of the Greater Hartford YMCA, please contact Becca Polglase at becca.polglase@ghymca.org or contact your local YMCA branch and ask for assistance.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Boy Scouts
Character building and values education are the common bonds that tie Camp Jewell and The Boy Scouts of America together! For over 20 years, Camp Jewell has been providing Scouting groups a place to try new things and build self-confidence. Many people are unaware that the YMCA and the Boy Scouts of America have had a long history together since the early 1900’s when YMCA staff helped develop the scouting program. Since that time the Boy Scouts have become a leader in value based youth development. Camp Jewell is the perfect place for Cub Scouts and Boy Scout groups to enjoy one of the following options.
Do Your Best!
Programs for Cub Scouts aged 7-10
Camp Jewell is the one of the best places to get out and “just do something”. A weekend away at Camp Jewell will provide numerous activities that can be used to achieve the aims of Scouting—citizenship training, character development, and personal fitness.
Be Prepared
Programs for Boy Scouts aged 11-17
The outdoor and high adventure recreation and teambuilding programs at Camp Jewell provide the perfect place for boy scouts to step out of their comfort zone, practice decision making skills, improve leadership skills and practice the principles of Leave No Trace.
Please contact Katie Jilek, Outdoor Center Director, katie.jilek@ghymca.org or 888-412-2267 to register or for more information.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Girl Scouts
Camp Jewell YMCA has teamed up with the Girl Scouts to serve thousands of girls and their troops with several options for recreation, teambuilding, and skill building. Camp Jewell specializes in providing affordable and customizable programs to each troop, including badge work and the fulfillment of several “Skill Builders” for Girl Scout Interest Projects.
Program Option I – Weekend Recreation Program
For Girl Scouts of all ages
This program focuses on building and strengthening relationships within the troop as part of the traditional Camp Jewell recreation program. Activities are designed to give girls a chance to try new things and develop Courage, Confidence and Character by increasing their comfort zones. Program activities are led by Camp Jewell staff. Troop leaders and adult chaperones provide all supervision.
Seasonal activities include: hiking, rock climbing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tennis, soccer, basketball, horseback riding, archery, candle making, leather craft, bouldering, arts and crafts, the mini-farm, group games, campfire, giant slide, ice-skating, snow shoeing cross-country skiing, snow tubing, and pretzel making.
Program Option II – High Adventure Program
For girls ages 12 and up
Sign up your troop to participate in a high adventure teambuilding program at Camp Jewell YMCA. The program includes icebreaker games and stretching, trust and spotting activities, active participation on the low ropes course, rock climbing on one of our climbing towers, and participation on our high ropes course. Teaching will emphasize safety, proper use of ropes course and climbing equipment as well as proper spotting techniques.
This full weekend program will afford your girls the opportunity to complete a “High Adventure” Interest Project.
Please contact Katie Jilek, Outdoor Center Director, katie.jilek@ghymca.org or 888-412-2267 to register or for more information.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Non-Profit Groups
No matter what your charitable program or service, Camp Jewell can provide programming to enhance the mission of your non-profit organization. The YMCA of Greater Hartford has been serving much of the Hartford area since 1852 and we are very proud of our ability to serve the communities around us. Many non-profit organizations find Camp Jewell to be the perfect place for a retreat. Whether your goal is getting to know one another through a teambuilding program or spending timing meeting about future plans, Camp Jewell provides plenty of opportunities for groups of all sizes to accomplish their goals.
Conference and Retreats
Get away for the day or for many days. Camp Jewell has conference spaces available year-round to accommodate groups of up to 400 people. AV equipment can be provided at no additional charge. Feel free to take a break from your hard-work and join the camp staff for a few hours of recreation as well.
Teambuilding
Get members of your organization on the same page. The teambuilding programs Camp Jewell provides seek to build trust and camaraderie within your organization. Camp Jewell staff will work with your group to set goals, improve communication skills, develop trust among the group, and face problems head on through creative problem solving.
Some of the non-profit organizations that come to Camp Jewell throughout the year include:
Religious & Faith Based Organizations
Camp Jewell has exciting opportunities for religious organizations of all faiths to take advantage of our youth and adult programming. Whether you are a youth group, adult group, or confirmation class, Camp Jewell’s two outdoor chapels provide a picturesque landscape for your spiritual development and relaxation. Programs can be designed to meet your unique needs.
Conferences and Retreats
Many religious organizations come to camp throughout the year to get away from stresses of every day life and reconnect with their deeply held beliefs. Conference groups can spend time meeting and discussing as well as participating in our numerous recreation activities. Camp Jewell has indoor spaces that can hold up to 400 people. AV equipment can be provided at no additional charge.
Teambuilding
The teambuilding program at Camp Jewell is a great way for youth groups and adults to break down barriers and get to know one another. Programs focus on goal setting, group bonding, communication skills, and risk taking. All of the lessons learned on our low and high ropes courses can be applied to spiritual growth and other religious messages.
Please contact Katie Jilek, Outdoor Center Director, katie.jilek@ghymca.org or 888-412-2267 to register or for more information.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Social Services Groups
Whether the community you serve includes adults or children, programs at Camp Jewell promote positive youth development and strengthen family ties. Social service groups that come to Camp Jewell spend time enjoying the camp facilities without the stresses of everyday life. See pictures!
Conference and Retreats
Get away for the day or for many days. Camp Jewell has conference spaces available year-round to accommodate groups of up to 400 people. AV equipment can be provided at no additional charge. Feel free to take a break from your hard-work and join the camp staff for a few hours of recreation as well.
Teambuilding
The teambuilding programs Camp Jewell provides seek to build trust and camaraderie within your organization. Camp Jewell staff will work with your group to set goals, improve communication skills, develop trust among the group, and face problems head-on through creative problem solving. Take advantage of our 30 low and high ropes elements! See pictures!
Some of the social services groups that come to camp each year include:
Camp Jewell features two separate, full-service properties within our 540 acres. Hide-A-Way Ranch, located across the lake from Camp Jewell, is a secluded facility, perfect for smaller groups of 100 or less. Camp Jewell, with capacity for over 500, is ideal for larger groups and events. Each property has it's own dining hall, group accommodations, chapel, conference spaces and charm.
Our facilities enable us to serve thousands of visitors each year who enjoy our beautiful 540 acres, friendly staff, and innovative programs. During the summer, campers and staff come together to form a vibrant camp community. In the Fall, Winter, and Spring, Outdoor Center guests come to enjoy camp through our conference, teambuilding, and outdoor education programs. See pictures!
Exciting Activities For All
Camp Jewell has several exciting activities all year long! Summer activities include horseback riding, swimming, archery, mountain boarding, rock climbing, kayaking, pottery, guitar, high ropes, hiking, fishing, soccer and many more! Winter activities include snow tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, ice fishing, ice golf, broomball, cross-country skiing, candlemaking, arts & crafts, bbs, archery and other fun indoor programs. We even have our own snowmaking system! See pictures!
Community & Organization Programs
Please click on a program of interest below.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
YMCA Adventure Guides
A weekend at Camp Jewell is oftentimes described as the pinnacle experience for regional YMCA Adventure Guides groups. Parents and their children spend quality time together enjoying all that Camp Jewell has to offer. Exciting daytime activities are coupled with Adventure Guides ceremonies, games, campfires, and special programs in the evening.
Seasonal activities at Camp Jewell include: hiking, rock climbing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tennis, soccer, basketball, horseback riding, archery, candle making, leather craft, bouldering, arts and crafts, the mini-farm, group games, campfire, giant slide, ice-skating, cross-country skiing, snow tubing, broomball, and pretzel making.
Who participates?
YMCA Adventure Guides is for parents and their children, ages 5-9. An adult and child attend their activities together.
What does the YMCA Adventure Guides program do?
As a member of the YMCA Adventure Guides you will have the opportunity to develop a stronger relationship with your child by joining a unique “Circle” with whom you’ll participate in activities like games, camping, trips, ceremonies, and family adventures. You and your child will take a journey of discovery and learning. Throughout this journey Adventure Guides compass points – family, nature, community, fun, and the YMCA character development values – provide a sense of direction and inspiration for activities.
As a member, you will be able to participate in large scale group activities such as weekend campouts, parties, and parades. Conducting group exercises in the Circle fosters leadership, problem-solving, group work skills, and a sense of a commitment to a larger community – all of which reinforce the YMCA’s pledge to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.
"Friends Forever"
The immediate gain is evident – spending time together – but the long-term gains are even more significant. Not only will you build a solid foundation for a friendship that will last a lifetime, but you will also be helping to build and develop a set of skills and patterns that your children will carry with them into adulthood.
Which YMCA Adventure Guides groups attend Camp Jewell?
- Charles River YMCA
- Farmington Valley YMCA
- Fairfield YMCA
- Glastonbury YMCA
- Hamden YMCA
- Lakewood-Trumbull YMCA
- Marlborough YMCA
- New Canaan YMCA
- Old Dairy
- Ridgefield
- Southern Saratoga
- Stratford
- Tri-Town YMCA
- Waterbury YMCA
- West Hartford YMCA
- Westport YMCA
- Wethersfield
- Wilton YMCA
Please contact Katie Jilek, Outdoor Center Director, katie.jilek@ghymca.org or 888-412-2267 to register or for more information.
How do I join an Adventure Guides group at my local YMCA?
If you are a member of the Greater Hartford YMCA, please contact Becca Polglase at becca.polglase@ghymca.org or contact your local YMCA branch and ask for assistance.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Boy Scouts
Character building and values education are the common bonds that tie Camp Jewell and The Boy Scouts of America together! For over 20 years, Camp Jewell has been providing Scouting groups a place to try new things and build self-confidence. Many people are unaware that the YMCA and the Boy Scouts of America have had a long history together since the early 1900’s when YMCA staff helped develop the scouting program. Since that time the Boy Scouts have become a leader in value based youth development. Camp Jewell is the perfect place for Cub Scouts and Boy Scout groups to enjoy one of the following options.
Do Your Best! Programs for Cub Scouts aged 7-10
Camp Jewell is the one of the best places to get out and “just do something”. A weekend away at Camp Jewell will provide numerous activities that can be used to achieve the aims of Scouting—citizenship training, character development, and personal fitness.
Be Prepared
Programs for Boy Scouts aged 11-17
The outdoor and high adventure recreation and teambuilding programs at Camp Jewell provide the perfect place for boy scouts to step out of their comfort zone, practice decision making skills, improve leadership skills and practice the principles of Leave No Trace.
Please contact Katie Jilek, Outdoor Center Director, katie.jilek@ghymca.org or 888-412-2267 to register or for more information.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Girl Scouts
Camp Jewell YMCA has teamed up with the Girl Scouts to serve thousands of girls and their troops with several options for recreation, teambuilding, and skill building. Camp Jewell specializes in providing affordable and customizable programs to each troop, including badge work and the fulfillment of several “Skill Builders” for Girl Scout Interest Projects.
Program Option I – Weekend Recreation Program
For Girl Scouts of all ages
This program focuses on building and strengthening relationships within the troop as part of the traditional Camp Jewell recreation program. Activities are designed to give girls a chance to try new things and develop Courage, Confidence and Character by increasing their comfort zones. Program activities are led by Camp Jewell staff. Troop leaders and adult chaperones provide all supervision.
Seasonal activities include: hiking, rock climbing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tennis, soccer, basketball, horseback riding, archery, candle making, leather craft, bouldering, arts and crafts, the mini-farm, group games, campfire, giant slide, ice-skating, snow shoeing cross-country skiing, snow tubing, and pretzel making.
Program Option II – High Adventure Program
For girls ages 12 and up
Sign up your troop to participate in a high adventure teambuilding program at Camp Jewell YMCA. The program includes icebreaker games and stretching, trust and spotting activities, active participation on the low ropes course, rock climbing on one of our climbing towers, and participation on our high ropes course. Teaching will emphasize safety, proper use of ropes course and climbing equipment as well as proper spotting techniques.
This full weekend program will afford your girls the opportunity to complete a “High Adventure” Interest Project.
Please contact Katie Jilek, Outdoor Center Director, katie.jilek@ghymca.org or 888-412-2267 to register or for more information.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Non-Profit Groups
No matter what your charitable program or service, Camp Jewell can provide programming to enhance the mission of your non-profit organization. The YMCA of Greater Hartford has been serving much of the Hartford area since 1852 and we are very proud of our ability to serve the communities around us. Many non-profit organizations find Camp Jewell to be the perfect place for a retreat. Whether your goal is getting to know one another through a teambuilding program or spending timing meeting about future plans, Camp Jewell provides plenty of opportunities for groups of all sizes to accomplish their goals.
Conference and Retreats
Get away for the day or for many days. Camp Jewell has conference spaces available year-round to accommodate groups of up to 400 people. AV equipment can be provided at no additional charge. Feel free to take a break from your hard-work and join the camp staff for a few hours of recreation as well.
Teambuilding
Get members of your organization on the same page. The teambuilding programs Camp Jewell provides seek to build trust and camaraderie within your organization. Camp Jewell staff will work with your group to set goals, improve communication skills, develop trust among the group, and face problems head on through creative problem solving.
Some of the non-profit organizations that come to Camp Jewell throughout the year include:
- Common Ground-Leadership Greater Hartford
- Builders Beyond Borders
- Readers as Leaders
- Valley United Way
- Casey Family Services
- Camp Rising Sun- American Cancer Society
- Holyoke Youth Commission
- ABC of Wilton
- Education Connection
- Winchester House
- Youth Rights Media
- Youth 2 Youth- Shelton
- Young Peoples Chorus of NYC
- Greater Bridgeport Youth Orchestra
- Shoreline Youth Symphony
Religious & Faith Based Organizations
Camp Jewell has exciting opportunities for religious organizations of all faiths to take advantage of our youth and adult programming. Whether you are a youth group, adult group, or confirmation class, Camp Jewell’s two outdoor chapels provide a picturesque landscape for your spiritual development and relaxation. Programs can be designed to meet your unique needs.
Conferences and Retreats
Many religious organizations come to camp throughout the year to get away from stresses of every day life and reconnect with their deeply held beliefs. Conference groups can spend time meeting and discussing as well as participating in our numerous recreation activities. Camp Jewell has indoor spaces that can hold up to 400 people. AV equipment can be provided at no additional charge.
Teambuilding
The teambuilding program at Camp Jewell is a great way for youth groups and adults to break down barriers and get to know one another. Programs focus on goal setting, group bonding, communication skills, and risk taking. All of the lessons learned on our low and high ropes courses can be applied to spiritual growth and other religious messages.
Please contact Katie Jilek, Outdoor Center Director, katie.jilek@ghymca.org or 888-412-2267 to register or for more information.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Social Services Groups
Whether the community you serve includes adults or children, programs at Camp Jewell promote positive youth development and strengthen family ties. Social service groups that come to Camp Jewell spend time enjoying the camp facilities without the stresses of everyday life. See pictures!
Conference and Retreats
Get away for the day or for many days. Camp Jewell has conference spaces available year-round to accommodate groups of up to 400 people. AV equipment can be provided at no additional charge. Feel free to take a break from your hard-work and join the camp staff for a few hours of recreation as well.
Teambuilding
The teambuilding programs Camp Jewell provides seek to build trust and camaraderie within your organization. Camp Jewell staff will work with your group to set goals, improve communication skills, develop trust among the group, and face problems head-on through creative problem solving. Take advantage of our 30 low and high ropes elements! See pictures!
Some of the social services groups that come to camp each year include:
- New Milford Social Services
- Bloomfield Youth Services
- Shelton Youth Services
- Suffield Youth Services
