Our History

During the Great Depression, a group of YMHA and JCC volunteers joined forces with a common goal:

To create a place where young boys could come together to make new friends, run around, swim, play sports, and just be kids. The volunteers presented their camp concept to the former mayor of Lynn, Massachusetts, Ralph S. Bauer, who became inspired by their mission. Bauer agreed to sell his 20-acre property on Lake Attitash to be the home of the camp. In 1931, Camp Bauercrest was born, providing a much-needed escape from a world of fear and uncertainty.

The camp is named “Bauercrest” as a tribute to Ralph Bauer for his generosity, while “Crest” references the Hill on which it sits.

Camp Bauercrest grew in prestige and continued to operate each and every summer despite the challenges of the Great Depression and World War II. Many of the traditions established over the years continue today, connecting our current generation of campers to our alumni.

Our Philosophy

Camp Bauercrest aims to build Jewish identity and self-esteem in young boys through promoting and teaching the values of our S.T.A.R. Principles: Sportsmanship, Tradition, Achievement and Responsibility. It is our mission to ensure that every Bauercrest camper:

Has a healthy and enjoyable summer
Returns to his community more responsible and compassionate
Attains new skills and makes new friends
Leaves camp an emotionally and physically stronger person
Establishes a stronger connection with Jewish culture and traditions

We believe in imparting Jewish values on and off the field, and Camp Bauercrest programming is specifically designed to give young boys the support they need as they grow and transform into responsible young men – the leaders of tomorrow.