FAQ

Capital Camps is our community’s primer, accredited, co-ed, Jewish overnight camp. Our mission is to nurture and develop caring, compassionate, productive Jewish citizens. The immersion environment we call “camp” is the means to this end. Fun and adventure are the prime motivators for attendance, yet our program provides content on multiple levels. Capital Camps is located close to the Greater Washington and Greater Baltimore communities with modern state-of-arts facilities including both an aquatic center and a lake.

We believe that every interaction and activity can impact personal growth. Whether it is a communal meal served in the dining hall or a lively song session, the experience leaves an indelible impression. The “moments in time” are the puzzle pieces that challenge children to reflect and contemplate their place in the world. Campers learn, grow, challenge, fail, invent and discover themselves, all in a uniquely Jewish setting.

Experiencing life as part of a larger community is integral to the camp’s unique ability to create engaged members. We provide opportunities to experience communal living with unrelated peers, to understand responsibility for others and to appreciate how individual actions impact the larger community – both in and out of camp.

With guidance of senior staff and the lessons learned from three decades of Capital Camps history, communal norms are established each summer. Respect for each individual, civil discourse and inclusion are embedded in these norms. Our staff are exemplary role models and work proactively to help each camper connect and form friendships.

You can reach us by phone (301-468-2267) or email and we will respond promptly. We love talking with prospective camp parents and want to hear from you. Our office hours are typically 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (EST). We are also happy to come to you and meet at your home –we actually find this is a terrific way to ensure some familiarity with our senior staff and answer any questions you and your child may have.

To learn more about our activities go to Fun at Camp and scroll to the bottom of the page.

Capital Camps is divided into Villages (campers spanning a set number of school grades).  The Villages are:  Benjamin Village (entering 3^rd – 5^th grade), Reich Village (entering 6^th – 7^th grade), Kaufmann Village (entering 8^th – 9^th grade), Macks Village (entering 10^th grade).

Yes. Your child’s pre-summer camp forms include a bunk request form, on which your child can request up to two campers with whom they would like to be bunked. Your child’s request must be reciprocated on his/her friend’s form.

We’d love to have you visit camp during one of our scheduled tours over the course of the year. Click here to view tour dates and schedule yours now!

It is important to us that you feel comfortable and not pressured into making a decision. At the same time we do want you to know that space is limited and our returning camper ratio is high. Spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, and some of our programs fill as early as Fall of the preceding year.

We encourage parents to write frequently to their campers. Our online system allows you to send email to your campers. You can also write a letter through the postal mail. During the summer, we work with a team of liaisons who are here to help if you have any questions regarding your child while he/she is at camp.

No. Camp tuition includes all of the activities your child will participate in at camp. All snacks are included at camp. Camp apparel can be purchased online by clicking here.

All campers have some type of overnight experience. Reich campers (entering 6th – 7th grade) participate in a camp out at a local state park. Kaufmann campers (entering 8th – 9th grade) participate in a 2-day, 1-night off-site camping and rafting trip. Macks campers (entering 10th grade) participate in a 3-day adventure program in West Virginia. Campers in our leadership programs participate in extended, team building off-site activities.

All food is kosher and prepared in accordance with Jewish dietary laws. We are proud to be supervised by the Vaad of Greater Washington. Our chefs prepare a variety of nutritious, kid-friendly meals. Many campers have specific dietary needs and we are happy to substitute acceptable items. There are always alternative meals for those with allergies or restrictions. Salad bar, sunflower butter (instead of peanut butter) and jelly, fresh fruit and vegetarian alternatives are consistently available for campers and staff.

Information can be found on our Dates and Fees page.

Registration for camp includes a deposit, refundable until October 31. Cancellation coverage is available. Capital Camps partners with its insurance provider, AM Skier, which has provided the following link to explore insurance options: click here. AM Skier is available to consult with families on the best insurance option for them and is available at 570-226-4571. Please note that most cancellation insurance policies must be purchased within a very limited time period (which may be as short as two weeks, or even less) from your initial deposit for camp.