Shwayder is one of the oldest Reform Jewish summer camps in the United States, established in 1948. Our 242 acres of towering pine trees started as an fishing retreat owned by Maurice B. Shwayder, one of the founders of the Samsonite Luggage company. When he died in 1948 Shwayder's widow, Ruth, donated the land to Temple Emanuel to be used specifically as a children's summer camp. Her vision was to create a mountain enclave where children could live in nature, learn about Judaism, and personalize the ideals of our Jewish community.



For over 60 years, we have offered each camper "A Summer To Build Your Life On." We have remained a small camp (our current capacity is 125 campers per session) where we can spend lots of time emphasizing our relationships -- with ourselves, with our friends, and with God. All of our activities exist within the framework of building a community where everyone is valued, everyone is loved, and everyone has the chance to excel.