Tamarack Camps + National Trails: A Trusted Partnership in Jewish Youth Camp Transportation

Each summer, something extraordinary happens in the lives of dozens of Jewish teens across Metro Detroit!

Every June, shortly after the school year ends; they pack their bags, say goodbye to cell phones, and hit the road with Tamarack Camps on once-in-a-lifetime adventures across the western United States and even up to Alaska. Behind the wheel of these unforgettable journeys? National Trails, proud to be Tamarack’s trusted partner in charter bus transportation.

As a premier charter bus company based in Livonia, Michigan, National Trails has a trusting relationship with Tamarack Camps, built on mutual values of safety, community, and transformative youth experiences. This is more than just a ride—it’s a mission-driven journey.

About Tamarack Camps: Building Jewish Identity Through Nature & Adventure

To better understand the impact of this partnership, we spoke with Camp Director, Carly Weinstock, and Assistant Director of Teen Programs, Matt Russell of Tamarack Camps, who shared the rich history and purpose behind the program.

Tell us about Tamarack Camps and its mission!

“Tamarack Camps began its five generation Jewish camping tradition on Belle Isle in 1902. An inspired group of Detroit Jewish community leaders saw the need for immigrant children living in the busy and congested city to have a summer respite from the stresses of city living and some good old fashioned “fresh air.” Now entering its 124^th year, Tamarack (formerly the Fresh Air Society) remains committed to its founding mission: “Building a vibrant community by providing enriching Jewish camping experiences for children and families, respectful of financial ability.” Today, Tamarack is one of the largest and oldest in the Jewish camping landscape. Combining progressive programming, outdoor adventure and a wide range of creative activities, Tamarack launches lifelong passions, fosters lasting relationships, and builds Jewish identity – all in an inclusive and nurturing environment. 

Tamarack’s core values inform its mission, vision, and day-to-day work:

• Develop People (התפתחות אישית): develop people into their best selves.
• Live Jewishly (נשמה יהודית): make Judaism fun and meaningful.
• Create Safe Spaces (מרחב בטוח): create a secure physical, spiritual, and emotional experience.
• Be Financially Fair (הגינות פיננסית): respectful of financial ability.
• Build an Inclusive Community (קהילה מקבלת): value and celebrate each person; everyone is important.”

How long has Tamarack Camps been offering these extended summer trips across the U.S. & Canada?

“First Western Trip: 1962 & First Alaska Trip: 1982”

These summer travel experiences take teens to national parks, historic landmarks, and scenic trails—creating space for reflection, bonding, and Jewish learning along the way. And while the campers grow spiritually and emotionally, they’re also traveling in safety and comfort thanks to National Trails.

What makes Tamarack’s Western and Alaska trips so special for your campers?

“Tamarack Camps’ Travel Trips are among the most unique teen travel experiences in the world – they provide once-in-a-lifetime moments to discover the world, themselves, and the true meaning of belonging. On our teen travel trips, campers can experience two captivating destinations: the rugged landscapes of the Western United States (for participants going into 10^th grade) or the natural beauty of Alaska (for participants going into 11^thgrade) where they immerse themselves not only in nature, but also in the rich tapestry of Jewish heritage and values, as every day brings new opportunities for individual reflection.”

The Summer Travel Experience: Off the Grid, On the Journey!

Each summer, Tamarack Camps teens depart for extended road trips by charter bus, venturing far west to National Parks such as; Arches, Zion, Canyonlands, Rocky Mountain, Grand Teton, and even Denali National Park in Alaska.

But what makes these trips so special?

• Unplugging from technology: Campers disconnect from screens and reconnect with themselves, nature, and each other.
• Shared responsibility: Teens take turns preparing kosher meals, setting up camps, and supporting one another—building leadership and independence.
• Jewish learning on the move: Through discussions on ethics and heritage, the trips weave Jewish identity into every moment.

What kind of planning goes into preparing for a month-long trip that spans thousands of miles?

“It’s a yearlong process to organize these trips. There’s a motto in the summer camp world that we work “10 for 2:” 10 months of planning for 2 months of programs and it is true in these cases...

There are staff to hire, campsites to book, permits through all the national parks and state parks to acquire, and activities to plan along the way. Among much more planning, there is also the food menu to finalize and purchase and a staff training component that takes multiple weeks to complete.”

How does this travel experience impact the personal growth and development of your campers?

“The personal growth and development that our teen travel participants show is remarkable. Campers often get on the bus on the first day nervous but come home standing taller and filled with tears of joy and accomplishment! As part of these experiences, campers often step outside their comfort zones, whether being away from home for 5 weeks for Western Trip campers or 7 weeks for Alaska Trip campers, pushing themselves on hiking and canoeing trips, unplugging from technology, or forming new relationships. Campers also gain confidence, become more independent and gain a lifelong appreciation for nature and exploration.”

Why Tamarack Camps Chooses National Trails Charter Bus Transportation

When it comes to transportation, trust is everything. That’s why Tamarack Camps continues to choose National Trails as their primary charter bus partner year after year.

What has your personal experience been like working with National Trails for these trips?

“We couldn’t have a better partner for these life-changing trips than National Trails! We know that these trips are not typical and National Trails has been all in from the moment we started working together. When changes and extras come up unexpectedly, they are flexible and operate at the highest level to ensure these trips are a memorable experience for all.”

What do your staff and campers appreciate most about the National Trails motor coach experience? (e.g., safety, comfort, amenities, drivers, etc.)

“The drivers on these trips really become part of the trip itself. The campers and staff can make lasting connections with them and are truly part of the team.”

Here’s why National Trails is the top choice for youth group transportation:

• 🚌 Modern fleet of luxury charter buses equipped with climate control, plush seating, and USB/electrical outlets.
• ✅ Experienced, friendly, and background-checked drivers trained for long-distance travel.
• 📍 Custom itineraries tailored to Tamarack’s complex travel schedules and route stops.
• 🔧 On-call mechanical support and dispatch coordination to ensure every journey is smooth.
• 🛡️ Top-tier safety standards and real-time communication tools to give families peace of mind.

Safety & Logistics: What Parents Should Know

Every parent wants to know their child is safe while they’re away. At National Trails, safety isn’t just a priority—it’s the foundation.

• 🔒 All charter buses used by National Trails for Tamarack trips undergo regular inspections by certified mechanics
• 📞 Our dispatch team stays in contact with drivers and camp coordinators throughout every leg of the journey
• 🚨 Emergency communication protocols ensure that National Trails can respond swiftly to any changes or challenges on the road
• 🧭 Our GPS tracking and professional route planning make long-distance travel both efficient and secure

Whether it’s traveling through the mountains of Colorado or the remote highways of Canada on the way to Alaska, National Trails ensures Tamarack Camps’ transportation is always handled with excellence and care.

Final Thoughts from the Road

Can you talk about the importance of the relationship between your trip leaders and the motor coach drivers?

“We do a meeting with the drivers and trip leaders weeks before the trips go out. We emphasize the importance of clearly communicating with each other and understanding the roles that each person has for the trip. Setting these expectations before the trip goes a long way to having a smoother trip when it starts.”

As a proud partner of Jewish organizations across Michigan, National Trails is both proud and honored to play a role in shaping meaningful journeys for the next generation!

Why You Should Travel with National Trails

Whether you’re a camp director, a school administrator, or a parent planning group travel, National Trails is the charter bus company you can count on. We understand the needs of youth programs, and we know how to make group travel safe, affordable, and unforgettable.

🎒 Perfect for:

• Jewish youth travel programs
• Overnight camp adventures
• High school retreats
• Teen leadership trips
• Religious community events
• Educational field trips

📈 And when you ride with National Trails, you get:

• Hassle-free parking and drop-offs
• Professional drivers who feel like family
• Buses equipped for long rides and scenic detours
• The experience of a transportation company that’s handled cross-country travel for decades

Ready to Plan Your Next Adventure?

Contact National Trails today for your free charter bus quote and discover why we’re the trusted transportation provider for Tamarack Camps and beyond.

Interested in Learning More About Tamarack Camps?

Contact Tamarack Camps to connect with Camp Leadership, have questions answered, and learn more about their summer programs.

We can't wait to have you ride with us!