The moment you discover “The Greatest Place on Earth!”
As one of the oldest and largest Jewish summer camps in the world today, Tamarack has served thousands of campers, families and school groups annually, with the mission to build Jewish identity and strengthen a vibrant community. Want to learn more about Tamarack Camps, located in Ortonville, Michigan, in northern Oakland County? Read on to explore our beautifully wooded property, which boasts expansive indoor and outdoor amenities for campers to enjoy year-round.
What keeps Tamarack campers coming back, summer after summer, generation after generation? Perhaps there’s something in the “fresh air” across our 1,000 forested acres and sparkling lake waters. Or, perhaps it’s because…
- We offer transformational experiences and adventures – without gaps in programming. The first thing to know about Tamarack Camps is that we offer progressive programming for all ages, without interruption in their experience. Campers begin their journey at Camp Maas, a flagship residential camp experience, which continues with unique travel options, including outpost camps and trips to the western U.S., Alaska and Israel, that foster growth, a love of nature and exploration — all in some of the most beautiful places in the world.
- Financial sensitivity is our mission. Being financially fair is a core value and it guides us through everything we do. Our all-inclusive pricing, for example, ensures families can plan their summer without hidden or extra costs. Transportation, tripping experiences, canteen, horseback riding and laundry are all covered — services that many other camps charge extra for. We also offer $1 million in scholarships, more than any Jewish camp in the world, to make camp accessible to everyone.
- We prioritize camper care. Every camper is fully supported, and their experience is highly individualized. Before our summer sessions begin, a new camper liaison will meet with your camper one-on-one, and our medical staff will work with your family to understand physical and mental health needs, special diets, etc.
- We’re operated by a team of experts. While we understand it’s not easy to let your child leave home, we hope it’s comforting to know that Tamarack Camps is run by industry-leading professionals. Not only do we have a full medical staff led by a chief medical officer, with an on-site clinic that functions as an urgent care, we have six social workers who can support campers’ mental health needs. We also have best-in-class teachers, artists in residence, clergy, etc., plus professional security personnel (many of whom are former law enforcement officers) and rigorous safety protocols. In addition, all our heads of side have experience in professional education and are long-time staff members (and camp parents themselves).
- We connect campers with Judaism and the Jewish community. Another thing to know about Tamarack Camps? Since 1902, we’ve been the link that brings families closer to Judaism and to Israel. Through teaching about Israeli life, injecting Hebrew words, and celebrating Judaism openly through music, rituals and traditions, the Tamarack experience is deeply formative. Through our Elaine and Michael Serling Israeli Camper Program, transformational trips to Israel, and beautiful settings for Shabbat –– campers often go on to make Judaism a significant part of their future.
- We’re inclusive. From caring for special diets, medical conditions, and campers with specialized needs, everything about Tamarack Camps is focused on making making our programs accessible from our diverse community. Our Yachad Inclusion Program, for example, offers a nurturing environment for campers entering second through ninth grades with learning, social and/or communication differences, where they can participate in a fully integrated experience with 1:1 camper to counselor care. There is no additional fee to participate in these programs.
Our Mission
Tamarack Camps, established by the Fresh Air Society, builds a vibrant community by providing enriching Jewish camping experiences for children and families, respectful of financial ability.
Our values
Tamarack Camps has instilled a set of core values that guide us through all we do.
- Build an inclusive community – Kehila Mekabelet: Value and celebrate each person; everyone is important.
- Develop people – Hitpatchut Ishit: Develop people into their best selves.
- Live Jewishly – Neshama Yehudit: Make Judaism fun and meaningful.
- Create a safe space – Merchav Batuach: Create a secure physical, spiritual and emotional experience.
- Be financially fair – Haginut Finansit: Be respectful of financial ability.
Our accreditation
Tamarack Camps is accredited by the American Camping Association, which means we meet up to 300 health, safety and program quality standards.
