Camp Contact and FAQ

What to Know

As part of the largest and fastest-growing network of Jewish day camps in the world, Camp Gan Israel enjoys a well-earned reputation as a trendsetter in Jewish camping. The Gan Izzy staff are renowned for their dedication and love for their campers. Campers thrive in the fun, upbeat camp atmosphere, making friends, gaining confidence, and developing a positive self-image. At Camp Gan Israel, every child is viewed as a unique individual. At Gan Izzy, the schedule is unmatched! Our blend of studios, workshops, trips, entertainers and activities combine for a summer of adventure to remember. Join us for an unforgettable six-week program - a summer experience that will last a lifetime.

Our Directors

Our Camp Directors, Rabbi Laivy and Goldy Mochkin, have many years of camp and youth programming experience. They are the leaders of our amazing staff and take great pride in our ongoing, comprehensive staff training program. Their extensive experience with youth programming makes them a valuable administrative team for our camp throughout the entire year. Contact: CGI@chabadpaloalto.com

Activities 

At Camp Gan Israel, learning is fun! Every day at Camp Gan Israel is chock-full of diverse recreational activities including trips, swimming, sports, nature, art, science, special events & shows. Every moment at Camp Gan Israel is filled with fun, excitement, and rich Jewish values.

Food & Drink

In addition to snacks, Camp Gan Israel registration includes a full hot lunch program for every camper. All food preparation follows strict health & safety guidelines. We take pride in providing our campers with nutritious, Kosher meals.

​No outside food is allowed on campgrounds. Camp is peanut and tree nut free. 

​Please contact our staff if your child has a birthday during camp.

Location

Camp will take place at Chabad Palo Alto, 3070 Louis Rd., across the street from Henry Seale Park.

FAQ

1. What age children is the camp for?

Camp Gan Israel is for boys and girls entering grades 1-6. Our program is carefully and thoughtfully developed to be developmentally appropriate for each age in each activity, from swimming and sports, to specialties and arts.

2. Where is the camp based?

CGI is based out of Chabad at 3070 Louis Rd. in Palo Alto.

3. How Jewish is Camp Gan Israel?

Camp Gan Israel is a camp for boys and girls of all Jewish backgrounds. All children will enjoy a shared Jewish spirit through songs, projects and fun.

4. What type of lunch should I send with my child to camp?

No outside food is allowed on camp grounds. Snack and lunch are provided daily.

Birthday parties can be arranged by contacting our staff.

5. My child has an appointment and will be arriving late/leaving early. How can I arrange this?

If for any reason your child will be arriving/departing at a time other than drop off/pick up, please make sure to email us cgi@chabadpaloalto.com to make proper arrangements.

6. How often does my child drink water at camp each day?

Please send your child with their Camp Gan Israel water bottle each day. The children will be encouraged to drink every hour, and refill their water bottles as needed.

7. How can I speak with the Camp Director?

If you have a question or concern to discuss with the directors, you can call the main office, and the directors will try their best to take your call. Please understand that the directors may be out and about during the time of your call making sure that everything is perfect for your children. If the director is unavailable at the time of your call, please leave a message and your call will be returned promptly.

8. How much time do the campers spend outdoors?

Weather permitting, campers will spend most of their time outdoors.

9. Must campers wear a camp t-shirt every day?

We require that all campers wear a Camp Gan Israel t-shirt during field trips. 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. Each camper will receive a t-shirt at the beginning of camp. Additional camp t-shirts can be purchased through the camp registration form.

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