Camp Gan Israel overnight camp

Just a few years after Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson ascended and assumed the leadership of the Chabad Lubavitch movement he recognized the need to provide overnight summer camping for children. In 1956, at a Farbrengen (public address) the Rebbe noted that the urban landscape of North America is drastically different from the close-knit setting of the European Shtetle. “In the alte heim, the relaxed atmosphere and home centered lifestyle allowed for proper supervision and numerous venues to utilize the summer days in a meaningful fashion. Today, conditions at home and on the street are such that overnight camping is not a luxury but a necessity,” he intoned. Soon after, two parcels of land were purchased in the Catskill Mountains of New York, where boys and girls have been camping ever since.

In 2008,Chabad Lubavitch of Southern Ontario purchased a 207 acre site in the picturesque Haliburton region, with 6000 feet of frontage on the shores of Basshaunt Lake. The secluded oasis, replete with capacious foliage and rolling hills, offers a perfect setting for hosting an overnight camp and weekend retreats. This giant leap forward has been made possible through the generosity of two leading philanthropic families. In recognition of their vision, commitment, and largesse the children’s camp is called, The Sidney & Naomi Spiegel Camp Gan Israel, and the spacious dining hall and industrial kitchen bears the name of Joey & Toby Tanenbaum.

For more information please visit GanIsrael.camp