Camp FAQs
Must campers wear a camp T-shirt every day?
How does my camper find a lost item?
How does the transportation system work?
How do I arrange to pick up my camper during the camp day?
When can I visit my camper?
What if my child does not want to participate in a particular activity?
How religious is Camp Gan Israel?
Can my camper bring a precious item to camp?
What does my camper need to bring each day?
How often does my child drink water at camp each day?
How can I speak with my child's counselor?
How can I speak with a Camp Director?
Are we obligated to give a tip or gift to our child's counselor?
How can I become more involved with Camp Gan Israel?
Must campers wear a camp T-shirt every day?
No. We only require that all campers wear a Camp Gan Israel T-shirt on Thursdays, which are trip days. Each camper will receive a camp T-shirt on the first day of camp. Since all camp staff and campers wear camp shirts, we are instantly recognizable to each other. While on field trips, camp shirts distinguish our campers and staff from other visitors.
How does my camper find a lost item?
Please mark all belongings with your camper's name and group. This is very important since shirts, backpacks, etc. are identical and individual items are difficult to identify without a label. Lost & Found items are available each day in the office. Please contact us in writing or by phone regarding specific items.
How does the transportation system work?
Camp Gan Israel offers Bus transportation for the older division in Alpine. We work with Rainbow bus Service. You can choose Door to Door service or pick up at Chabad in Tenafly. Please Contact our office for more information.
How do I arrange to pick up my camper during the camp day?
If you have to pick up your camper during the day, please notify our office a couple hours beforehand. Once we are aware of your arrival time, we can arrange to have your camper ready and waiting at the office for you. Please note that no camper will be released to ANYONE without written permission.
When can I visit my camper?
Camp Gan Israel welcomes you to come see our beautiful grounds and amazing bunks every day.We suggest that you schedule your visit carefully, as your camper may be involved in a field trip or other off-campus activity. All visitors will be directed to the camp office for assistance.
What if my child does not want to participate in a particular activity?
No camper will be forced to participate in any activity. However, we do encourage campers to try out the wide scope of activities and take advantage of the complete program offered at Camp Gan Israel of Tenafly.
How religious is Camp Gan Israel?
CGI is a totally non-judgemental environment made up of campers from all Jewish backgrounds. An individual's level of observance is not stressed. All children enjoy a shared Jewish spirit through songs and projects, and are imbued with a strong sense of Jewish pride.
Can my camper bring a precious item to camp?
We do not permit your camper to bring jewelry, radios, expensive toys, etc. to camp. Camp Gan Israel supplies everything campers may need.
What does my camper need to bring each day?
Campers only need a bathing suit and towel each day, regardless of the weather. We supply all sports and safety equipment such as tennis racquets, baseball mitts, and all other sports equipment. Please apply sunscreen at home.
How often does my child drink water at camp each day?
Every camper will be provided with a Camp Gan Israel personalized water bottle. It is the campers responsibility to bring the bottle each day filled with water. They will be instructed to drink every hour. Bottles will be refilled as needed throughout the day. Water fountains have been installed at various strategic points throughout the campgrounds as well, and the children are often encouraged to use them at all times.
How can I speak with my child's counselor?
A call to the camp office will answer most questions. Since counselors are constantly supervising groups and activities, messages will be taken at the camp office. Please leave your name and evening phone number and the counselor will return your call as soon as possible.
How can I speak with a Camp Director?
The directors are available to answer your questions and discuss your concerns, during the day at the Camp Office. Please feel free to call, or leave a message at the camp office during the camp day.
Are we obligated to give a tip or gift to our child's counselor?
Tips or gifts are appreciated to show gratitude to the counselors for investing so much time and energy into ensuring that your child have the summer of his/her life. If you wish to do so, here is a general guideline: $20-$25 for a junior counselor and $30-$40 for a counselor.
How can I become more involved with Camp Gan Israel?
The camp encourages any parent who would like to chaperone a field trip to please contact the camp office.