‘For our family, that means everything’

How Tamarack Helped Jack Shine I grew up at Jewish summer camp, where some of the most formative moments of my childhood — the friendships, the freedom, the sense of Jewish joy — happened. Camp shaped who I am, and when I became a parent, I hoped my children would one day feel that same … Read more

A Hanukkah Message from our Chief Medical Officer

This past week has been heavy. Especially during Hanukkah, it can feel painful and unsettling to be Jewish in the world. The frightening events in the news may be confusing, distressing, or overwhelming for adults and children alike, and many families are wondering how best to support their children while managing their own emotions. As … Read more

Back home, Together

Earlier this month — with duffle bags — our year-round staff, as a full group, returned to Camp Maas. We reconnected at “The Greatest Place on Earth!” for an overnight retreat — and, during a packed 24 hours, our resident address shifted back to Ortonville. Like campers and staff, with comfortable accommodations — including the … Read more

SK2T 2026: Honoring Harriet and Gregg Orley!

As we enter Thanksgiving — a time centered on gratitude for our blessings, pride in our community, and the joy of gathering around the table — we are reminded of the many ways Tamarack Camps brings people together with that same ruach.  Just as we huddle around the campfire to share in tradition, our camp community unites … Read more

Celebrating our roots — and building our future

On a recent — and chilly — November evening, our executive board joined the Tamarack professional staff for dinner during their annual retreat. It was an opportunity for some of our top lay leaders to personally connect with the incredible and deeply committed team who work every day to create camp magic. We gathered at … Read more

Spotlight on: Charles N. Agree outpost camp

Nestled deep in the Northwoods of Lake Superior, Charles N. Agree Outpost Camp became an outpost of Tamarack Camps in the mid 1960s and has since fostered life-changing summers for thousands of young adults. During each session, a small band of campers and staff make northern Ontario home and, surrounded by decades of history and … Read more

2026 President’s Award Acceptance Speech

People often ask me, “Why are you still so involved with camp? Why do you give so much time to Tamarack after all these years?” And the answer is simple: my passion for Tamarack comes from my heart. This place has been woven into the fabric of my life since I was a kid. I … Read more

Strengthening Our Inclusive Camp Community: Introducing The Buddy System!

As we transition to the “back-to-school season,” with the sweetness of summer still fresh in our hearts, I’m reminded of the deep impact our camp community has on every child. That’s why I’m especially excited to share news that will strengthen our commitment to create a home where all campers feel valued and supported — … Read more

Band-Aids, Popsicles and Love Stories

It’s August 7, 2025 — which, for some, signals the final stretch of summer. Football season is on the horizon, apple cider and flannel are making their return, and school is right around the corner. But for those of us at Tamarack Camps, today marks something far more poignant: the last full day of camp. … Read more