Camp Judaea Looks Ahead to an Exciting and Rejuvenating Summer 2025

Charlotte Jewish News, May 2025

By Francine Safdeye, Camper Experience Director

As Camp Judaea (CJ) prepares to welcome campers for Summer 2025, we are not only introducing exciting new programs but also celebrating the strength and resilience of our beloved camp community. After facing the challenges from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, we have embraced this as an opportunity to renew and enhance the CJ experience. Our commitment to providing a joyful, enriching, and deeply Jewish summer remains stronger than ever.

In true CJ spirit, our team has worked tirelessly to restore and improve our campgrounds, ensuring that every camper can continue to explore, learn, and thrive. With new upgrades and thoughtful program enhancements, this summer promises to be one of our best yet!

Exciting New Programming for 2025

- Outdoor Cooking Studio: A Taste of Israel in the Mountains

We’re thrilled to unveil a brand-new outdoor cooking studio where campers will get hands-on experience preparing Israeli and Jewish cuisine. From kneading fresh pita to crafting delicious Mediterranean dishes, this program blends creativity, teamwork, and Jewish culture in a fun and engaging way—all while cooking and baking in the fresh mountain air.

- Enhanced Teva (Nature) Programming: Deepening Our Connection to the Land Nature has always been central to the CJ experience, and this year, our Teva (nature) program is expanding to offer even more opportunities for exploration and discovery. Campers will embark on guided hikes, engage in hands-on learning experiences about the environment, and connect with animals in new ways. This year, we are placing a special emphasis on rebuilding and caring for our own camp environment, using the lessons of resilience and stewardship to inspire meaningful conversations and programming.

- Silent Disco: Dance Under the Stars

CJ nights are about to get even more magical with the introduction of silent disco! This exciting addition allows campers to choose their own music channel and dance under the stars with wireless headphones, creating an electrifying atmosphere without making a sound. It’s the perfect way to bring fun, energy, and togetherness to our evening programs.

Looking Ahead with Strength and Spirit

The journey of rebuilding has reminded us of what makes Camp Judaea so special: our unwavering spirit, our deep-rooted values, and our ability to turn challenges into opportunities for growth. As we enter Summer 2025 with renewed energy, we can’t wait to welcome new and returning campers to the place where lifelong friendships are formed, Jewish identity is explored, and meaningful connections to Israel are built—all while creating memories that last a lifetime.

Limited spaces are still available for the first session! You don’t want to miss out on an unforgettable summer at Camp Judaea! Learn more and register at www.campjudaea.org or contact Francine Safdeye, camper experience director, at francine@ campjudaea.org.