ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMMING
We offer a variety of activities from sports to arts, to exploring Judaism and the great outdoors. Campers spend time with their cabin mates and also get to choose from their favorite activities. In addition, team building, leadership and camp-wide programming is integrated into every day.
Jewish Life
Shwayder Camp is a vibrant part of the Reform Jewish community. We are one of only four temple-owned camps in the country. The fundamental tenet of our program is based around each camper having their own Jewish experience by incorporating Judaism throughout each day.
Shabbat is special at Shwayder where we gather to reflect and celebrate our time together. Beginning with an outdoor service led by our campers, we sing and dance under the star-filled sky. It’s a chance for all of us to embrace the beauty and spirit of Judaism and build community.
Wilderness
We take full advantage of our beautiful mountains. Every unit goes out on a one-night campout. We carry all of our supplies in backpacks, spend the night in tents, cook our food over the campfire, tell stories and experience the thrill and beauty of the outdoors. If you want more time in a tent, we offer additional optional overnights.
Horseback Riding
We have a stable of 26 horses for the summer, and every camper has several opportunities to ride. Our program offers both arena lessons and trail rides so that campers of all riding levels can gain knowledge and experience.
All of our rides are Western-style trail rides. We offer basic instruction to new riders on mounting, dismounting and controlling their horse. Our wranglers are very experienced and will make sure every camper has safe, fun rides!
Creative Expression
A full range of programs allow our campers to explore and enhance their creativity through music, drama, photography, arts and crafts, videography, cooking, dancing and creative writing.
Athletics
At Shwayder Camp sports play a vital part in our communal activity. For campers who wish to participate in more athletics, the options are numerous.
Activities include, but are not limited to: gaga, kickball, football, basketball, archery, volleyball, frisbee, bubble soccer, yoga, hiking and climbing.
Ropes Course and Rock Climbing Wall
Nestled in between the trees on the side of Mt. Evans, is a 40-foot tall High Ropes Challenge Course.
Cabins come to the course together to learn skills in the areas of teamwork, communication and trust. Our course is a safe activity led by a certified specialist. Our indoor climbing wall offers bouldering, top ropes and lead climbing lines.
The basic principle is “Challenge by Choice” – everyone is urged to take part, but nobody is pushed to climb higher than they feel comfortable.
Embassy Day
Embassy Day is a Shwayder tradition that every camper looks forward to. Similar to color wars, campers are divided into two different color teams.
The object of the game is to follow clues in order to put a puzzle together and find the team flag. Often it comes down to the wire and the first team to raise their flag up on our flagpole is the winner. Blue or Green – who will declare victory this year?
Evening Programming
When the sun goes down, camp lights up. Whether it’s a talent show or night swimming, this is the time when the entire camp unites and camper spirit soars.
A different activity is scheduled each night and it’s a great way for everyone to spend time together before lights out.