Join Us For The 2025
Alumni Reunion + Family Camp!
Details
Who? You! Alumni and current + former camp families (whether you’re an alum or not, you’re part of our family!). All ages welcome!
What? One AMAZING weekend together at Camp Ben Frankel of friendship, fun and excitement! Together we’ll celebrate Shabbat, play, laugh, sing, eat, swim, hike, share camp memories and make new ones.
Where? The best camp in the land, of course! Camp Ben Frankel @ Touch of Nature in Carbondale, IL
When? August 1st 4:00pm CT – Sunday, August 3rd at 11:00am CT
How much? Cost includes all meals, activities, and lodging unless otherwise noted. Please note we want everyone to be able to attend Alumni and Family Camp! If cost is a burden to your attendance, please contact sarah@campbenfrankel.org.
Lodging Options
Shared Lodging On CBF’s Site
Adults 26+ On-site Lodging: $165
Adults 18-25 On-site Lodging: $100
Children 3-17 On-site Lodging: $45
Private Cabin On CBF’s Site (Limited Availability)
Sleeps up to 6: $700
Sleeps up to 8: $900
Off Site Lodging (Book your own or stay locally)
Adults 26+ Program & Meals Only (no lodging): $100
Adults 18-25 Program & Meals Only (no lodging): $75
Children 3-17 Program & Meals Only (no lodging): $25
Friday Only Ticket (Join us for services and Shabbat dinner!)
All participants: $36
Children under age 3: Free!
For those staying off-site, please contact Sarah sarah@campbenfrankel.org for information about a room block with discounted rates at the Hampton Inn, located at 2175 Reed Station Parkway, 62902.
Tentative Schedule
All activities are optional! There will be many options for a ‘choose your own’ camp adventure!
Friday, August 1st
Welcome back home! Upon arrival you will check-in and settle-in. We’ll have camp tours, snacks, activities and time to get ready for Shabbat. Later, we’ll begin our celebration of Shabbat together with a festive service followed by an epic intergenerational Shabbat walk from services to dinner. We’ll break bread (challah, of course) and partake in a delicious Shabbat dinner followed by a song session and Israeli folk dancing. Late night hangout/ schmooze time will be available for those interested.
Saturday, August 2nd
Breakfast will start our day followed by Shabbat morning services and kiddush. The morning will also include optional camp activities such as climbing, arts & crafts, learning and more. Following lunch and menucha, rest period, even more camp activities will be offered before dinner. Following dinner will be a special evening program, havdalah & friendship circle. More late night hangout time for night owls.
Sunday, August 3rd
Start the day with flag raising followed by breakfast, song session and an all-camp alumni & families photo! We’ll gather together for one final closing friendship circle, a swag give-away and say L’hitraot (goodbye… for now!).
Frequently Asked Questions
My partner/family has/have never been to camp – will they feel included? We encourage you to share the magic of CBF with your family and fellow alumni. One thing that makes CBF so special is our commitment to welcome and include all. Together we’ll create an amazing and inclusive experience!
My kids aren’t quite camper-age yet. Can they join us? Of course! We encourage all ages to join us for this special weekend. Babysitting won’t be offered, but we will have age-appropriate offerings, and you’re welcome to opt-in or out of any activities!
What are the housing options? Group cabins (ages 8+) and private cabins (all ages) are available, pending availability. All cabins have A/C.
What if I prefer to stay off-site? If you prefer to stay off-site, we have arranged a room block at the Hampton Inn, 2175 Reed Station Parkway, 62902. For more information please contact Sarah Sherer Singer, sarah@campbenfrankel.org.
What kind of activities should I expect? Climbing, ga-ga, sports, hiking, arts & crafts, yoga and more!
I have a special skill (yoga instruction, ultimate frisbee whiz, songleading, etc.) that I’d like to share! Can I help lead an elective? We’re so glad you asked – YES! Please email us at sarah@campbenfrankel.org to let us know your amazing skills and we’ll see if we can make it work.
Is CBF kosher? Yes, all food served is kosher.
What if I have a dietary restriction/allergy? We are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies! CBF is entirely nut free. We will have vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free options for those who request them in advance. Other special needs can be accomodated if requested in advance.
Is CBF shomer shabbos? No. While camp is not shomer shabbos, there will be shomer shabbos options for those who wish.
What kind of health protocols will be in place? Participants are highly encouraged to be fully vaccinated and boosted against Covid-19. Masking is not required, however participants are welcome to do so. If a participant tests positive for COVID-19 before coming to the Reunion and Family Camp, they must isolate for five (5) days. If a participant still has multiple symptoms after the 5th day, they may not attend the program.
What should I bring? A recommended packing list will be shared closer with all who register.
What if I have an infrequently asked question? Please email us @ sarah@campbenfrankel.org and we’ll circle back as soon as we can!