An extension of the SLC experience, nestled in Israel.
Upper Teens Israel Experience
July 5 – August 1, 2027
In Summer 2027, Surprise Lake Camp (SLC) is launching a brand-new program for teens completing 9th or 10th grades: a 21-day immersive journey through Israel, concluding with camp time at SLC. This unique experience blends the spirit, values, and community of camp with the adventure, history, and culture of the Jewish homeland.
Discover Israel, Together
Teens will explore Israel with old and new friends, guided by experienced SLC staff and educators:
- Visit meaningful historical and cultural sites
- Celebrate Shabbat with powerful, intentional programming
- Engage with Israeli peers
- Participate in activities that promote leadership, independence, and personal growth
A Journey Rooted in SLC’s Core Values
Even thousands of miles from camp, the heart of SLC travels with us. While traveling, participants will experience the SLC community, rooted in camp values:
- Community: Build strong friendships, feel included, and grow closer with peers and staff through shared experiences.
- Compassion: Engage thoughtfully with Israeli peers and communities, deepening empathy and understanding.
- Courage: Step outside comfort zones, try new things, and grow in confidence.
- Gratitude: Connect to Jewish history, culture, and heritage with pride and appreciation.
- Grit: Face challenges with resilience, independence, and determination.
Through adventure and intentional reflection, teens will explore Israel while discovering more about themselves, their leadership potential, and their place in a larger Jewish community.
Return Home Transformed
After 21 days, participants will return home with:
- Greater confidence and independence
- Lifelong memories
- A lasting sense of belonging to the Jewish people and to the SLC community
- Leadership skills and personal growth
The SLC Israel Experience is more than a trip. It’s a transformative extension of camp, in one of the most meaningful places in the world.
Questions? Please email Ilana Sussman, SLC Staff Member and Israel Trip Manager at israel@surpriselake.org.
Israel Experience Tuition
| Base Price | Minus RootOne Voucher* | True Cost Per Traveler | |
| Jul 5-25: Israel + Jul 25-Aug 1: SLC | $12,500 | ($3,000) | $9,500 |
*$3,000 reduction will be applied once the RootOne voucher has been approved. In order to earn the voucher, participant will need to complete a series of pre-trip requirements, including online learning through the RootOne portal. Once SLC receives your camper’s voucher approval from RootOne, the $3000 will be applied to your balance owed, or refunded if already paid in full.
This trip requires a minimum number of participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the trip taking place?
SLC’s Teen Israel Journey will depart on Monday, July 5.
Participants will return to Surprise Lake Camp on Sunday July 25, and stay through the end of Session 1 — which ends on Sunday, August 1.
Will my teen also be spending time at camp?
After the trip, teen travelers return to camp for one week to share their experiences with fellow campers, and participate in leadership and reflection activities that help them process and make meaning of their journey. Participants will return to Surprise Lake Camp on Sunday July 25, and stay through the end of Session 1 — which ends on Sunday, August 1.
What sites might teen travelers visit?
How does the RootOne voucher work?
$3,000 reduction will be applied once the RootOne voucher has been approved. In order to earn the voucher, participant will need to complete a series of pre-trip requirements, including online learning through the RootOne portal. Once SLC receives your camper’s voucher approval from RootOne, the $3000 will be applied to your balance owed, or refunded if already paid in full.
Do participants remain eligible for future Birthright trips?
SLC’s program does not preclude future Birthright participation. Your child remains eligible for the Birthright program.
Will SLC staff members be supervising the trip?
Yes! Your camper will be accompanied throughout the Israel experience by trusted Surprise Lake Camp staff members they already know and who know them well. The trip will be led by Israel Trip Manager Ilana Sussman and Unit Supervisor Gabby Roma, with additional SLC staff members to be announced.
While in Israel, our staff will work alongside experienced, licensed local tour guides provided through RootOne, combining the comfort and continuity of familiar SLC mentors with the expertise of knowledgeable Israeli guides. Together, they will supervise campers and ensure a safe, meaningful, and memorable experience.
