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?
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?

Must campers wear a camp T-shirt every day?
Every Friday we request that all campers wear their camp T-shirt for our special Shabbat program. We also request that each Wednesday - Trip day for age 5-12  campers wear their Camp Gan Israel T-shirts.

How does my camper find a lost item? 
Please mark all belongings with your camper's name. 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?*

Door to door air conditioned licensed bus transportation by Montauk bus company, is available from Westhampton, Quogue, East Quogue, Hampton Bays - Watermill, Bridgehampton, Sagaponack.
Campers must remain seated at all times. Seat belts are provided and their use is mandatory at all times.                                                                                       A counselor is on the bus at all times with the children.

*Transportation is an additional $200 per child, per week.

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. Once we are aware of your arrival time, we can arrange to have your camper ready for you. Please note that no camper will be released to ANYONE without written permission.

When can I visit my camper?
Camp Gan Israel is open for parental visits every camp 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 visitor registration and assistance. We invite all parents to join us for Carnival day as well as specific Fridays, notices will be sent out.

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 urge campers to try all activities and take advantage of the complete program offered at Camp Gan Israel. 

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.

What does my camper need to bring each day?
Mini Gan Campers should bring a bathing suit and towel each day. Junior and Pioneer campers should bring their bathing suits everyday excluding Wednesdays, which is trip day. All campers should come with a hat or baseball cap as there are many outdoor activities throughout the day. Please apply sunscreen at home each morning and please send a water bottle with your child.

How often does my child drink water at camp each day?
We will ensure that each child refills their water bottle throughout the day and drinks often.

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 director is available to answer your questions and discuss your concerns, during the day at the Camp Office and from 8 - 9 PM most evenings. Please feel free to call during these times 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. If you wish to do so, here is a general guideline: $20-$25 for a junior counselor and $30-$40 for a counselor.