Celebrating 60 Years of Camp Interlaken Magic

Written by Melissa Mesa, Camp Interlaken’s 60th Anniversary Program Director

In early June, more than 500 alumni, families, and friends returned to Camp Interlaken JCC in Eagle River to celebrate an unforgettable milestone – 60 years of community, connection, and camp spirit. 

Even with cold, rainy weather, nothing could dampen the energy. Generations walked the grounds together, parents pointing out cabins, paths, and hidden corners where their most meaningful memories were made – now sharing it all with their children. Friday night’s Shabbat service in the Chadar Ochel was one of the weekend’s most powerful moments. Packed shoulder-to-shoulder on the benches, the room overflowed with music, warmth, and ruach. As voices rose in familiar melodies, it was the clear: the Interlaken spirit is alive and thriving. 

Of course, it wouldn’t be Camp Interlaken without a freezing plunge into Lake Finley, intense competition at the tushball court, and the shared laughter of friends reuniting (some after decades) as if no time had passed. The weekend was filled with joy, nostalgia, and countless “remember when” moments. Saturday night’s afterparty in K’far Noar perfectly capped off the celebration. Far from an afterthought, this party was intentionally planned to keep our community together a little longer – and it worked! Multiple generations gathered for drinks, music, and shared stories well into the night.

It was truly my pleasure to spend the past year working alongside the incredible committees who helped bring this celebration to life. Getting to know the people who love Camp Interlaken and hearing your stories made it easy to see why this place means so much to so many. Thank you for letting me be a part of it. 

The 60th Anniversary Celebration wasn’t just about looking back – it was a tribute to everything Camp Interlaken is today and a glimpse of all that’s still to come. 

Relive the fun of our 60th Anniversary Celebration: 
📸 Click here to view snapshots from Friday night
📸 Click here to view snapshots from Saturday