Our Philosophy

 A camp should provide more than fun and games.

A camp should be a place where children learn the importance of caring, sharing, tolerance, patience and working with others.

 A camp should bring out the best in each child's character and personality.
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A Jewish camp should be a place where children can experience first-hand the richness, excitement & warmth of Judaism.  

"Thank you all for leading us to magical journeys!
 You are the best counselors ever!" - Lexi 

Our Staff​
The real secret to our success lies in our outstanding staff. The staff members of Camp Gan Israel are highly talented individuals with years of experience in day camps and youth programs. Gan Israel counselors are known for their warmth and ability to understand, relate to, and care for every child individually. 

Staff members have come from as far away as Australia, Europe, South Africa and throughout North America. They join our local talent in fostering a sense of belonging with Jews the world over. It is the unique dedication and hard work of the staff that has made Camp Gan Israel a very special part of so many families' lives.

Our camp maintains a low staff-camper ratio (one counselor to six campers). Each special class is run by professional instructors.  Our counselors are highly trained, dedicated, and experienced, and all are fully trained in First Aid and CPR.

Meet the staff

Staff sign up

Every day at Camp Gan Israel is filled with diverse, exciting recreational activities, such as free swim, skill development in team sports, nature /mad science, weekly trips, karate, special events & shows, ceramic arts, gymnastics, tennis, and arts & crafts.  and much more.
​Fun-filled trips feature excursions to children’s favorite places. Our focus on good sportsmanship and self-confidence makes everyone a winner!
​We work hard to keep your camper constantly engaged in a fun, safe, and Jewish environment.

Jewish Culture
The hallmark of a Jewish camp is its Jewish content. The campers of Gan Israel are imbued with a deep sense of pride in their heritage and a profound love for the Land of Israel. In addition to daily Judaic instruction, our staff uses stories, videos, Challah baking, music, art, dance and much more to bring the beauty, values and traditions of our heritage to life. Many of our staff members have earned their teaching degrees in Judaic studies and possess a wealth of knowledge and creativity to provide your child with a memorable and exciting Jewish experience.

Sports & Athletics
At Gan Israel, campers participate in various sports activities, including soccer, basketball, baseball, football and much more. Our focus on good sportsmanship and self-confidence makes everyone a winner!

Swimming
Recreational swimming, water sports and swimming instruction is a delightfully refreshing element of the camp schedule. All aquatic activities are under constant careful supervision of certified lifeguards.

Science
Children discover the world of Science and learn safety throughout. Learning the science of catapults takes on a new life when the campers build a huge one, and liquid nitrogen couldn't get cooler - until our special instructor helps the campers make ice cream with it.

Field Trips
If there is something to visit in the Austin, chances are that Camp Gan Israel has been there! Our trips include Wonder World, The Thinkery, bowling, roller-skating, go-carts, miniature golfing, laser tag, boating, and more.

Special Activities
The daily schedule is complemented by exciting and unique activities. These include hiking, Capture the Flag, scavenger hunts, auction and international days to name just a few. These add to the special spirit of joy and pride that are by far Gan Israel's most prominent feature. Throughout the four weeks, Gan Israel offers your child the opportunity to participate in exciting extra curricular activities and trips. Late nights, cook-outs, a professional baseball game, a special Shabbat meal and our grand trip are just some of the "little extras" that we make available.

Arts and Crafts
Another way of blending Judaism into the camp day is having arts and crafts with a Jewish theme. The beautiful projects not only remind the children of their exciting summer, but can function in the home as a Mezuzah, Shabbat set etc.

Journalism and Drama
The "Gan Izzy Gazette" is a weekly publication containing a recap of the week, articles about important Jewish events and a variety of humorous articles. Campers are encouraged to contribute essays and articles, as well as assist with the layout of the publication. Campers may elect to take dance, song or creative dramatics. Instructors for each of these electives will help prepare them for the Grand Production during the last week of camp.

Our Divisions

MINI GAN

18 mos. - 4 yrs

Sometimes, little packages have big needs; like love, nurturing, play, and development. At CGI, our early childhood professionals are warm and loving, and focus on developing your child’s motor skills and social interactions. From sports and outdoor play, to art and music, your little one’s will  be showered with love, while will be cared for by trained specialists expanding their horizons in art, physical activity and swimming. Our flexible schedules, extended care options, and convenient location make it even easier for you to take advantage of this great program.

GAN ISRAEL

5 yrs - 10 yrs

For over 25 years, Camp Gan Israel offers an unmatched schedule complete with arts, sports, trips and a variety of workshops. The campers thrive in the positive Jewish atmosphere and spirit unique to “Gan Izzy”

 Sports, art, and  other specialty activities are run by professional instructors.

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GAN ISRAEL EXTREME

 11 yrs-13 yrs (Girls only)

For the budding tweens, the swimming, trips and workshops are spiced up with more specialty activities and age specific outings.
Featuring an overnight and fabulous grand trip to one of San Antonio's huge parks.
​Feel like a true pioneer – it’s a different kind of camp experience!  
  
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Camp Calendar! *minor difference for 18 mos - 4 yr olds: Trips switch to swimming. Everything subject to minor changes.

Location

Camp Gan Israel is located in North Austin right off of MoPac on 2127 W. Parmer Ln, a short 15 minute drive from central Austin, 9 minutes from the North West Hills area. 
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Carpool will be arranged if parents show interest.