The moment you feel fully prepared for a perfect summer
Preparing for camp can feel overwhelming, but it’s truly where the adventure begins. To help make the process as easy as possible, we’ve compiled a comprehensive camp guide to cover everything you need to know, so you don’t miss a thing. Whether you’re joining us as a new family or have some sessions under your belt, these details will provide helpful information about important dates, special programs and critical policies.
Our number one priority is the health, safety and well-being of our entire camp community. And together with nurturing staff, energizing programs and transformational experiences, we look forward to another transformative summer.
To help your child make the most of their time at Tamarack Camps, dive into the details below.
Prepare for a summer at Tamarack Camps with our comprehensive packing list. For more information, read on.
Luggage
Each camper is permitted to bring a total of three bags: two duffels and one carry-on backpack. Please use the luggage tags, which will be mailed prior to camp, to label them.
Note: We recommend duffel bags with a zipper across the middle, measuring approximately 36” x 18” x 16”. For the drive to camp, we recommend one backpack to bring last-minute additions and nighttime comfort items.
Clothing
Label, label, label! Simple and practical clothing is most suitable for camp. Additionally, we strongly recommend you purchase a village T-shirt for your child. These T-shirts are used for special events and village pictures throughout the summer, and they can be purchased at Brody’s or Perfect Trading Company.
To celebrate Shabbat on Friday nights, all campers and staff members are expected to dress respectfully (wearing blue and white). Shabbat tees are optional and are available at Brody’s and Perfect Trading Company. On Saturday, regular camp attire is sufficient.
Money
Campers do not need spending money while at main camp. However, campers in Kahn Ruach, Robinson Pioneer, Kaufman Specialty and Avodah may want money for their trip “pop stops.” Six-week campers and super session campers who stay during break should bring money for “pop stops.” We suggest a range of $10 to $40 in cash. Place your camper’s money in a sealed envelope with their name, village and exact dollar amount. At camp arrival, please bring the envelope to our staff. The envelope will be stored in the camp’s safe until your child’s trip departs.
Electronic Devices
Generally, campers are not allowed to have devices at camp. They may bring an MP3 player that does not connect to the internet to listen to music/audiobooks during menucha (rest time) or bedtime. However, any other devices must be approved by our staff in advance.
Cell phones are not permitted at camp, under any circumstances, and represent a distraction to camp’s community. If a camper is found with a phone, it will be confiscated and considered sufficient grounds for dismissal. In that event, a refund is unavailable. Additionally, campers are not allowed to use staff cell phones.
Dangerous Items
Guns, knives and any other potentially dangerous items are not permitted at camp. If you are unclear about any items, please ask for guidance from a member of the programs team. If a camper is found with a dangerous item, it will be confiscated and considered sufficient grounds for dismissal. In that event, a refund is unavailable.
Before the first day, campers and parents must drop off luggage (luggage tags will be mailed to households in May), and all campers must have their heads checked for lice.
To do so, please arrive with your camper at the following address, within your scheduled time:
Adat Shalom
29901 Middlebelt Road
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Session 1 Mini, Session 1 and Six-Week Campers
9 – 10 a.m.: last names beginning with A-M
10 – 11 a.m.: last names beginning with N-Z
Session 2 Mini and Session 2 Campers
5 – 6 p.m.: last names beginning with A-M
6 – 7 p.m.: last names beginning with N-Z
If you live outside of the Detroit area, you may bring your luggage to camp on the first day. Alternatively, you can ship luggage directly to camp. In that case, please make sure it will arrive after June 12. The camp address will be provided in informational emails before the start of camp. You must also bring a signed note on letterhead or a prescription stating that the camper is cleared of lice. Many Great Clips salons, lice boutiques and doctor offices will do this service.
Parents/guardians will drop off campers at Camp Maas on opening day. Specific drop-off times and details for Summer 2025 coming soon.
To connect with your camper, you can:
- Send mail:
- When sending letters, please use the camp address provided in the informational emails before the start of camp.
- Please do not send gum, candy, etc. We check everything.
- Campers will write letters home. Please help your camper by pre-addressing and stamping envelopes for them.
- Send email:
- A link to access camper emails will be on the website by the first day of camp.
- Please send by 8 a.m. to ensure same-day delivery.
- Note: Campers cannot email back.
- Call:
- When you call camp during the summer, our office staff will take a message for a social worker or head of side to return your call, usually within 24 hours.
- Note: Campers cannot call home.
- Read our daily newsletters:
- Daily newsletters will be sent from various members of the summer staff. These emails are sent from tamarack@tamarackcamps.com and often get sorted into spam or junk folders. Please add this email address as a “safe sender” in your contacts to ensure you receive our communications.
- View our SmugMug photos:
- A link and password will be shared prior to the start of camp.
If your child(ren)’s birthday is during camp, our custom is to celebrate throughout the day. The counselors will highlight their birthday with special programs, and you can feel free to send birthday cards.
Note: Packages are not allowed, with very few exceptions. If your camper forgot an essential item, such as swim goggles or sneakers, please contact Rachel Pitt at rpitt@tamarackcamps.com for approval. Packages will be checked before delivery.
Here’s a sample day in the life of a camper:
- Boker Tov! (Good morning!)
- Degel (Flagpole)
- Breakfast
- Clean-Up
- Bunk Activity 1
- Bunk Activity 2
- Lunch
- Menucha (Rest Time)
- Prime Time*/General Swim
- Prime Time*/General Swim
- Shower Time
- Degel (Flagpole)
- Dinner
- Evening Activity/Schmooze (Free Time)
- Lilah Tov! (Good Night!)
Note: The above schedule may vary, depending on special programs and trips. Friday’s schedule, for example, differs, as we allow additional time for Shabbat preparations. We observe Shabbat by sleeping in, enjoying breakfast in the village, and participating in engaging and informal services, more relaxed programming and a meaningful Havdalah ceremony.
*Prime time: Campers choose an activity they will participate in for two or three consecutive days.
Activities
Opportunities include: omanut (arts and crafts), ceramics, farming, teva (nature), Jewish programming, tripping, horseback riding (HBR), land sports, multimedia, music, photography, theatre, ropes (climbing wall, tango tower, high ropes and zip line), swimming (at the pool and in the lake) and water sports (waterskiing, tubing, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding).
Camping Trips
For peace of mind, we have dedicated “tripping” staff made up of experts on all things camping — setting up tents, building a campfire, etc. They are lifeguard and wilderness first aid certified and will be on all camping trips, along with the village counselors. Often, we find that campers who are reluctant to go on an overnight camping trip share this as a highlight of their summer — and even a lifelong passion.
The camp trip locations and lengths for each village are listed below:
- Applebaum and Shiffman: instead of departing camp for a trip, participants will enjoy our internal opportunities — a campfire with smores and stories.
- DeRoy and Fishman: 2-day, 1-night hiking and canoeing trip along the Huron River
- Charach, Sheruth and Wolfe: 3-day, 2-night hiking and canoeing trip in Mio, MI
- Berman and Hermelin (fortnight and full session): 4-day, 3-night hiking and canoeing trip in Mesick, MI
- Kahn Ruach: 5-day, 4-night hiking trip to North Manitou Island
- Robinson Pioneer: 6-day, 5-night hiking and canoeing trip to Lake Superior Provincial Park and a 3-day, 2-night ziplining trip in Hocking Hills, OH
- Kaufman Specialty: 5-day, 4-night hiking trip in the Upper Peninsula
- Avodah: 2-day, 1-night hiking and canoeing trip in Holly, MI
Trip destination and itinerary may change as needed.
If a camper is unwilling to participate in their trip, we reserve the right to send them home, and a refund will be unavailable.
Session Break and Super Session
Super session campers may either stay at camp during the session break or go home for those days. Those who stay at camp during break should be pre-registered for it. All six-week campers, however, will stay at camp over session break. Activities and meals during session break are paid for, but campers will have opportunities to buy snacks on field trips. Please plan on sending $10 to $40.
Super session campers also have the option to spend one day/night at home from Monday, July 15 to Tuesday, July 16. If they do, please coordinate pick-up and drop-off with Rachel Pitt at rpitt@tamarackcamps.com.
During session break, super session campers may leave their laundry at camp to be laundered at no cost, or they may bring it home to launder themselves. In that case, luggage should be dropped off at the Session 2 luggage drop-off on July 14.
Food
The Sara and Irving Mahler Dining Facility, or as many campers know it, the chadar ochel (dining hall), provides a comfortable atmosphere where campers eat at tables with their bunk. Senior Side campers eat breakfast in their village lodge.
All food at camp is kosher, certified by the Vaad. Our kitchen staff is trained and well-equipped to manage dietary restrictions, food allergies, and sensitivities and picky eaters. Meals are designed to be nutritious and kid-friendly and will always have a vegetarian and gluten-free option. In addition, there is a fresh salad bar — often with vegetables grown at our own Farber Farm — available at lunch and dinner. Download a sample menu.
Laundry
Tamarack uses an outside laundry service that’s provided to campers for no additional cost. Laundry is offered once per session and over session break for super session campers.
If your child needs emergency laundry, our staff is happy to help and will wash a quick load for them.
For a fee, laundry service may be offered at camper pick-up at Adat Shalom at the end of the session.
Security
Led by our head of security and in partnership with Jewish Community Security, Inc. (JCSI), we employ a team of highly trained security officers on site 24/7, and all entrances to the camp’s property are gated. Additionally, both lakes on our property are private — not accessible by visitors.
All staff members undergo background and reference checks prior to their summer employment, and guests (such as laundry service, vendors, etc.) are escorted through camp by a member of our team.
At Tamarack, we take mental health seriously. Each side of camp has its own dedicated social worker who is there to support your children, and staff members have their own social worker, as well. Please feel free to share your concerns and talk candidly with the camp staff, specifically with the camper care team, which is led by Carly Weinstock, our camp director.
If your child is feeling nervous about coming to camp, we encourage you to discuss these emotions and empower them to handle the separation confidently. With that in mind, please refrain from saying, “If you don’t like it, I’ll come and get you,” as it communicates unrealistic expectations. Instead, if your child expresses apprehension or anxiety, please reach out to a member of the camper care team. This will help us prepare for your child’s needs.
We also encourage you to pack items that might help ease the transition (such as lovies/stuffies, pictures, a calendar, battery-operated night lights, downtime activities, etc.), which are all intended to provide familiarity as signs of home. Many campers, of all ages, bring comfort items.
Please know most children need a few days to adjust to life at camp, and during this time, homesickness — even for returning campers — is quite natural. Time and time again, we see campers cope with their concerns and, with the ongoing guidance and sensitivity of our staff members, build support systems. However, if, after reading a letter, you feel concerned about your child(ren) or, if you haven’t gotten a letter in a while, please feel free to contact us directly. A message will be taken by our supportive office staff and a member of the camper care team will be available to answer questions, respond to calls, field questions, research answers (where necessary) and, after a reasonable time, provide updates to our families.
Finally, along with preparing your child emotionally for the challenges of camp, please prepare your child(ren) for the realities of being away from home. We recommend reviewing our code of conduct with them, so they are aware of our expectations.
LGBTQIA2S+
We are committed to a culture of inclusion and welcome everyone, regardless of sex, sexual orientation or gender identity. We believe every member of our community has a right to be addressed by a name and pronoun that corresponds to their stated gender identity. Campers will be housed with the gender that most closely aligns with their gender identification. Discrimination, bullying and harassment on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or family composition is prohibited.
Under the leadership of our chief medical officer, we have a robust team of medical experts consisting of physical and mental health and special needs professionals. We collect and manage all health information through CampBrain. To submit your camper’s health information, you will receive an email invitation and detailed instructions. Please use the same username and password as used when you registered for camp and note that each camper needs a CampBrain medical profile completed before May 1.
Immunizations
Our immunization policy requires everyone to be immunized according to the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the state of Michigan and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
COVID-19
Following an intensive review process and with the full support of our medical committee, we strongly recommend all participants enrolled in any Tamarack Camps program be up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations. We will communicate any change in protocols closer to camp, to ensure we are making decisions based on current conditions.
Lice
At lice check, if your child(ren)’s exam reveals live lice and/or nits (eggs), they will be sent home, along with their belongings and guidelines for treatment. Parents will be responsible for administering the treatment. Or, if preferred, the Lice Sisters are available to treat your child(ren) for a fee. The camper’s head must be nit-free to return to camp.
Out-of-state campers will need to bring a signed note with letterhead or on a prescription stating that the camper has been cleared of lice within three days prior to camp arrival. Many Great Clips salons, lice boutiques and doctor offices will do this service.
Food Allergies
Our goal is to provide a safe and healthy environment for every camper. Increasing numbers of children have food allergies, and we will gladly work with families to provide alternatives. However, if your camper has an airborne food allergy, regrettably, Tamarack Camps is not the right place for them.
Tamarack Camps are not nut free, but we are nut sensitive. We do not cook with any nut products, including oils, or offer snacks containing nuts. We do provide peanut butter sandwiches, available at every meal, from one specific location.
Additionally, all staff members are trained in how to recognize allergic reactions and taught when and how to use EpiPens. The counselors will review the specific allergy plan for your camper with the clinic, and the counselor or camper will carry an EpiPen, according to the allergy plan. Plus, EpiPens are strategically placed throughout camp, including the dining hall, specialty areas and villages.
Please note: We cannot guarantee that everyone will follow the above guidelines, that there will not be “food fights” at your camper’s meal, or that campers eating peanut butter will not touch objects or each other.
Parent/Guardian Notifications
You will be contacted by a clinic staff member if:
- Your camper has a fever
- Your camper has a positive COVID-19 or strep test
- Your camper needs to be placed on antibiotics
- We need to take your camper out of camp for medical reasons, such as X-rays or an ER visit
- Your camper received an immobilizer, such as a sling, brace, etc.
- Your camper needs to spend the night in the clinic
Parents will NOT be notified if their camper receives treatment by the staff for cuts, colds, insect bites, stomach viruses, headaches, rashes, sore throat, etc.
Medications
We partner with AMAC Pharmacy Services, which provides safe, pre-packaged prescription and over-the-counter medications to camp. All Tamarack Camps participants are required to use AMAC to obtain any medications that will be administered during a summer program. This includes over-the-counter medications that are taken routinely or as needed, excluding medications, such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen.
Medication forms and prescriptions are due within CampBrain by June 1 for Session 1 and June 15 for Session 2. Any past-due prescriptions will be charged a $30 late fee.
Your camper’s doctor should send electronic prescriptions (E-scribe) to:
AMAC Pharmacy Services
32320 Five Mile Road
Livonia, MI 48154
E-scribe is the preferred method, but faxed prescriptions can be sent to (866) 798-4070.
If your prescription is not able to be ordered through AMAC due to extenuating circumstances, please contact the medical team to discuss. Those choosing not to use the pre-packaged medication option for any medications that CAN be filled by AMAC will be assessed a $200 processing fee.
If your child takes ADHD medications or any controlled substance that is only given in a 30-day supply, you will need to call your insurance company and ask for a “VACATION OVERRIDE” for 30 days (if attending one session) or 60 days (if attending two sessions or travel trips). Your doctor must then send an extra prescription to AMAC for the 30- or 60-day vacation override and write in the instructions, “Please do not dispense until June 1” for first session/travel trips or “Please do not dispense until July 1” for second session.
Over-the-counter medications do NOT need a doctor’s prescription and will be automatically packaged for camp based on what is entered on the Parent Provided Medical Information. Reminder: Please select tablets or chewables. We discourage liquids unless no alternative is available and will not accept or administer gummy medications of any kind; they melt and stick together in the heat and humidity.
If there are changes to medications, please notify us by June 1 for first session and June 15 for second session.
Camp is led by best-in-class professionals, including teachers, artists, clergy and more.
- Chief Executive Officer – Lee Trepeck
- Chief Medical Officer – Stefanie Aronow, M.D.
- Camp Director – Carly Weinstock
- Associate Director – Becca Fishman
- Director of Health – Jen Feinberg
- Program Coordinator – Lauren Vidak
- Head of TLV – Zack Goldman
- New Camper Liaison – Helayne Shaw
- Head of Brighton Side – Hallie Steckler
- Head of Mid Side – Laura Charnas
- Head of Senior Side – Craig Charnas
- Director of Mental Health and Special Needs – Danielle Tagai
- Senior Social Worker – Rick Barinbaum
- Brighton Side Social Worker – Lexie Kay
- Mid Side Social Worker – Marni Alekman
- Senior Side Social Worker – Jodie Heicklen
- Director of Jewish Life and Learning – Rabbi Ben Shalva
- Property Manager – Scott Bahr
- Registrar – Jeannette Levene
- Marketing and Communications – Amy Skimin
- Administrative Coordinator – Rachel Pitt
- Farm Manager – Alex Rosenberg
Supervisors
Every village has a supervisor who coordinates village activities and provides direction and guidance to the counselors. The supervisors are older, more experienced staff members, who have proven themselves as camp leaders. Supervisors arrive at camp two weeks early for highly focused training, facilitated by a variety of professionals. Our training, combined with each supervisor’s camper expertise, creates a perfect balance of youthful excitement and skilled caregiving.
Counselors
Your child(ren)’s counselors are high school graduates/college students, often with specific experience related to children. Our staff report to camp one to two weeks early for intensive training facilitated by our senior staff members, supervisors and other professionals, including parents from our community. The ratio of village staff to campers is approximately 1:5. However, when taking into account that specialists also live in the villages, the staff-to-camper ratio is often less than 1:5.
On the last day of camp, campers return by bus to Adat Shalom (29901 Middlebelt Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48334). Unless prior arrangements have been coordinated, campers may not be picked up at camp. Specific pick-up times and details for Summer 2025 coming soon.
At Camp
During camp, our staff members make every effort to identify and return any labeled lost and found items to your child(ren). Also, prior to returning home, items are displayed at degel (flagpole), which provides your child(ren) an opportunity to find items that may have been lost throughout the session.
Collecting Lost and Found After Camp
Once camp ends, lost and found items are delivered to our city office (Max M. Fisher Federation Building, 6735 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI) and will be available on the following dates:
Session 1 Mini and Session 1 Campers
- 2025 dates to be announced
- 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Conference Room A
Session 2 Mini, Session 2 and Six-Week Campers
- 2025 dates to be announced
- 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Conference Room A
Please allow yourself ample time to look through the items. After the second day, unclaimed items will be donated to charity.
Questions about camp?
We can help you find a safe, adventurous and welcoming summer experience.
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