Camp Tawonga

Camp Tawonga offers summer programs with one- to three-week overnight sessions. It also offers teen programs with teen leadership and summer sessions, a teen winter retreat, Family Camp with three- to four-day weekend programs, and B*Mitzvahs with a two-year program that includes immersive monthly camp-style classes, weekend retreats in nature, and family learning.

Programs

• Summer Programs — Ages 7–17 · One to three week overnight sessions
• Family Camp — Families · Three to four day weekend programs; offered in May, August, September, October, and December
• B*Mitzvahs — Students · Two-year program with immersive monthly camp-style classes, weekend retreats in nature, and family learning
• Year-Round Family Programs — Families · Year-round
• Adult Retreats — 21+ · Three to four day weekends
• Teen Programs — Entering 6th-12th grades · Includes teen leadership and summer sessions; also teen winter retreat

At a glance

• Ages: 0–18 years old
• General schedule: Summer programs are one to three week overnight sessions. Family Camp weekend programs are three to four days. Adult Retreats are three to four day weekends.

About the provider

Camp Tawonga has served children and families for 100 years. It was first located in Lake Tahoe and moved to its current location on the Tuolumne River in 1964. The camp says it serves as a leader in Jewish camping and fosters a deep connection to nature, community, and Judaism. Local family programs in the Bay Area incorporate Jewish celebration, music, and community building, and family volunteer days partner with the San Francisco Food Bank and Glide Memorial Church.

The camp is screen-free. Summer program resources mention all-gender cabins, cabin life and bunking assignments, and that the program is screen & package free. Adults at family camp can bring wine to dinner. Program resources note rosters are not linked for confidentiality reasons.

What families say

“My daughter came home from her first summer and said ‘I finally found my people.’ She’s going back for her 6th year this summer.” — Sarah M.

“Tawonga gave our kids a Jewish identity they actually love. The traditions, the songs, the community — it’s something our synagogue alone couldn’t provide.” — Jennifer L.

“Tawonga is a camp filled with joy, nature, and community. Truly a special place for youth and families!” — Meghan S.

Last updated September 14, 2026.