About the camp
A modern, international Jewish youth camp that brings together young people from all over the world in Hungary, on the southern shore of Lake Balaton to join our Ukrainian friends. Here, play and learning go hand in hand: discover your Jewish heritage, deepen your connections, and have unforgettable adventures – whether it’s fun, learning or both!
We welcome all Jewish youth aged 6 to 18 for a summer adventure of a lifetime!
Our values
Open Jewish identity
Camp Balaton is building an inclusive, traditional and modern Jewish community where all campers, regardless of their religious background, have the opportunity to discover and live their Jewish identity.
Community and relationships
Our camp aims to help participants form deep and lasting friendships. Diversity is not only embraced, but also enriches the community experience, where everyone can add something to the shared adventure.
Outstanding education
Camp Balaton is committed to high quality Jewish education, combining traditional learning with creative and experiential methods, so that Jewish heritage and values are not only instructive but also inspiring for all campers.
Our goals
Comprehensive Jewish learning
Our educational program focuses on core Jewish values, such as tikkun olam (bettering the world), mitzvot (commandments) and community responsibility. We make these teachings part of our campers’ daily lives in an interactive and enjoyable way.
Personal development
Our carefully designed programs develop critical thinking, leadership skills and self-awareness to help campers become more confident and proactive – not just at camp, but in all areas of life.
Cultural discovery
By learning about different Jewish traditions and customs, campers will gain a deeper understanding and pride in their global Jewish heritage. Yes, we are an international camp, and this year we welcome participants from 19 different countries!
Camp structure
Personalised group sessions and meetings
Camp Balaton offers a variety of camp programmes that combine a balance of education, recreational activities and personal development.
Varied programmes
Programs include exciting Torah study and Hebrew language workshops, art classes, sports and music workshops – and of course, lots of crazy water and outdoor adventures!
Experiences to remember
Our campers will not only learn about their Jewish traditions and history, but will also become more confident, open-minded and active members of their community – not only during camp, but beyond.
Camp Balaton – More than a camp
It is a journey of a lifetime, where Jewish values meet the modern world. Here we build a community that helps young people become stronger, more open and engaged – both with the Jewish community and the world!
The facility
Unique environment and modern facilities
Situated on the southern shore of Lake Balaton, in a 21-hectare green area of picturesque beauty, our camp can accommodate up to 600 guests and is open almost all year round. Although the International Youth Camp is the highlight of our season, we welcome participants to our Family Camp, Senior Camp, Ukrainian Family Camp and many other exciting programmes.
More than a camp – a complete experience!
Camp life is not just about learning – we offer excellent sports and recreational facilities, including:
Indoor swimming pool and sauna (for over 14s) for the ultimate relaxation
A cinema room where you can enjoy the best films together.
Bowling alley and playground for shared fun
Private 400m beach on the shores of Lake Balaton, exclusively for our campers and team
And if all that wasn’t enough… the camp boasts the largest – and dare we say the best – kosher kitchen in the region, where you can enjoy a real culinary experience!
We guarantee that your time with us will not only be exciting and educational, but also full of unforgettable moments that you will cherish for a lifetime!
Our team
SOPHIE BASSMAN
Sophie Bassman grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina. She moved to Budapest two years ago with her husband Tzemmy to co-direct CTeen Hungary. Sophie believes deeply that the future of Jewish life in Budapest is extremely important and that the role of teens is key to sustaining it!
The Bassmans believe that they can contribute to the continuity of Jewish life in Hungary through exciting programs, thought-provoking conversations and lots of shared experiences!
TZEMMY BASSMAN
Tzemmy Bassman is originally from Chicago and currently works as an Associate Director at CTeen Hungary. He moved to Budapest two years ago with his wife Sophie to run the Hungarian branch of CTeen, an international Jewish youth organization. With his friendly and optimistic personality, Tzemmy instantly wins the hearts of teenagers! He is passionate about inspiring and encouraging young people to live their Jewishness more deeply and to pass on this heritage from generation to generation.
A dedicated and experienced community
Our camp team is made up of native English-speaking and Hungarian-speaking leaders who are dedicated, skilled and experienced. They want to give back to the community and make a real difference to young people’s lives!
Many of them have been actively involved in Alef Kids and CTeen programs, as madrichs or in other leadership positions, so they have a wealth of experience in this field.
Our low camper-to-leader ratio ensures that each participant receives the highest level of attention and support, with personalized care and guidance!
Our team members have been carefully selected based on the following criteria:
Openness and kindness
Experience and dedication
Positive energy and dynamism
Responsibility and reliability
The camp is organised by Camp Balaton Kft, the Unified Hungarian Israelite Community (EMIH) and CTeen International. The possibility for the Ukrainian campers to be joined by an international Jewish community would not be possible without the support and commitment of the Hungarian State to support the Ukrainian Jewish community.
REGISTRATION
HUN | ENG