With camp opening in just 36 days, an exciting new chapter in outdoor adventure is coming to life.
After months of planning and development, camp CGI Poconos has officially unveiled a brand-new Wilderness Program that will transform the summer experience for campers of all ages. The program centers around the camp’s previously unused back 40 acres – a breathtaking natural area that has now been carefully cleared, expanded, secured, and developed into a dynamic outdoor learning environment.
The newly enhanced property now features an extensive trail system, dedicated exploration areas, and overnight camping spaces designed to immerse campers in nature while maintaining the highest standards of safety and supervision.
To lead this exciting initiative, camp is welcoming Mrs. Lisa Geller as Wilderness Specialist. Mrs. Geller brings years of outdoor leadership experience, including extensive work with wilderness programming and the Girl Scouts. Her passion for hands-on outdoor education and nature-based Torah learning will introduce an entirely new dimension to camp this summer.
Campers in the Junior and B-Me divisions will enjoy guided hikes, nature exploration, outdoor discovery activities, and age-appropriate wilderness experiences designed to foster curiosity, confidence, and appreciation for the outdoors.
For Pioneer and Teen campers, the program will offer a more advanced progression of outdoor skills throughout the summer, ultimately preparing them for supervised overnight camping experiences within the new wilderness area. These overnights will allow campers to apply their skills in real-world settings while building independence, teamwork, resilience, leadership, and deeper connections with nature.
Camp leadership believes the Wilderness Program will quickly become one of the highlights of the summer experience.
“Creating opportunities for campers to challenge themselves, connect with the Creator through nature, and build confidence outside of their comfort zone is something we are incredibly excited about,” Camp Founder & Director Gershon Sandler shared. “This program combines adventure, personal growth, outdoor Torah education, and unforgettable experiences in a safe, structured, and meaningful way.”
As excitement builds toward opening day, campers, parents and referring Shluchim alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be one of the most memorable additions to camp programming in years.
For more info: CGIPoconos.org
