Jewish summer camps across North America are increasing security as antisemitic incidents climb, and many families are being asked to help cover the added costs. FBI data show 2,421 religion-based hate incidents from March 2025 to March 2026, with 1,395 targeting Jews. In response to a March 12 attack at Temple Israel in Michigan, organizations like the Secure Community Network have trained thousands, completed 100+ assessments and helped secure $2.2 million in federal funds. Camps are adopting layered safety measures and some are charging security fees—reported up to $250 per camper—while working to preserve the camp experience for children.
Jewish Summer Camps Bolster Security as Antisemitic Incidents Rise — Families Often Share the Cost
Teens wearing helmets and harnesses while walking on an outdoors ropes course.(Getty Images)
As antisemitic incidents rise across the United States, Jewish summer camps are strengthening security measures and, in many cases, asking families to help cover the extra costs. Federal data and recent violent events have prompted camps, security organizations and local law enforcement to increase preparedness so children can enjoy a safe summer experience.
Rising Threats And A Wake-Up Call
FBI statistics show that between March 2025 and March 2026 there were 2,421 religion-based hate crime incidents in the U.S., with 1,395 of those targeting Jewish people. The urgency to act intensified after a March 12 attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, when 41-year-old Ayman Muhammad Ghazali allegedly drove into the synagogue, exited the vehicle armed with a rifle and exchanged gunfire with a security guard; preschool students and staff were evacuated for their safety.
Camp-Focused Security Initiatives
The Secure Community Network (SCN) launched a summer-camp initiative in April 2024 and reports it has trained more than 5,000 camp staff and volunteers, completed over 100 site assessments and walkthroughs, and helped secure $2.2 million in federal funding for security improvements. Leaders say those investments and training efforts have been critical in preventing greater harm.
'Parents should ask, Was your camp one of those that got an assessment? Was your camp one of those that got trained? Do your counselors know what to do?' — Michael Masters, SCN CEO
Jim Tarasca, SCN's Director of National Programs and a former FBI special agent, emphasizes practical vulnerabilities such as rural locations with poor cellphone service. He stresses that safety must be embraced by all staff members rather than viewed as the sole responsibility of designated security personnel.
A child prepares to take aim on the archery range at Camp Silver Gan Israel in Huntington Beach, Calif., Aug. 16, 2022.
Measures, Costs And Adaptations
Camps are implementing layered security measures: controlled entry and exit points, staff and volunteer training, emergency communications plans, visible and plainclothes security, and updated visitor-screening protocols. To offset rising protection costs, some camps include security charges in tuition while others list a separate security fee; reviewed examples show fees up to $250 per camper depending on session length and whether the camp is day or overnight.
Organizations such as the National Conference of Synagogue Youth (NCSY) have adjusted apparel and promotional items to reduce overt identifiers that could single out participants. Jamie Simon, CEO of the Foundation for Jewish Camp, says the foundation offers guidance from security partners and crisis communications resources so camps can continue to operate while keeping children and staff safe.
Preserving The Camp Experience
Jewish summer camps have played a central role in American Jewish life for more than a century, providing immersive experiences that build identity, friendships and a sense of belonging. While enhanced security increases costs and logistical complexity, leaders and advocates argue these steps are essential to protect campers and preserve the long-term social and educational benefits that camps provide.
Historical Note: Sunrise Lake Camp, founded in 1902, is among the oldest Jewish camps in the United States. The Museum of Jewish Heritage notes that the camp was created to give city children access to nature; notable alumni include Neil Diamond, Jerry Stiller and Gene Simmons.
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