The Local TTC is anything but “stay close to home.” Designed for teens who crave independence, connection, and real-world experiences, this camp turns Dallas into an adventure playground. Campers explore the city through curated outings, hands-on activities, and volunteer experiences that feel meaningful—and fun. Days are packed, social, and perfectly paced with the right mix of structure and freedom, so teens can try new things, build confidence, and strengthen friendships fast. They’ll explore like locals all day, then head home at night to recharge (and still make it to dinner). Your People, Your Summer—done right—with a first taste of young adulthood: more independence, more stories, more main character energy.
This isn’t the Texas trip your teen has already done — this is Texas turned up a notch. From city energy to outdoor adventure, this travel experience is all about discovering the Hill Country in a fresh, exciting way, packed with moments that feel fun, memorable, and just adventurous enough.
The week includes time in Austin, where teens will experience the city’s creative, playful vibe through unique local experiences that go beyond the usual tourist stops. Expect movement, exploration, and plenty of shared moments that capture what makes Austin feel alive and different.Outdoor adventure is a big part of this trip, including time at Enchanted Rock, where sweeping views, wide-open space, and a sense of accomplishment make for an unforgettable group experience. The trip also includes time in Fredericksburg, adding charm, character, and a taste of classic Hill Country culture.
And because summer in Texas should always include water, the group will cool off at Barton Springs, one of Austin’s most iconic spots — the perfect place to relax, recharge, and just have fun together.Throughout the week, teens will enjoy a great balance of adventure, downtime, laughter, and connection. Exact activities may vary, but the focus is on experiencing Texas in a way that feels new, exciting, and shared — building independence, friendships, and memories along the way.
This trip is perfect for teens who think they know Texas… and are ready to see it in a whole new way.
Natalie Kahan is excited to serve as the Teen Travel Camp Director at the J this summer! She is looking forward to creating an unforgettable summer filled with fun, adventure, connection, and meaningful experiences for the teens.
Natalie is from Fort Worth, graduated from University of Texas at Arlington, and currently works at Texas Christian University. Growing up, she was very involved in FWFTY and loved participating in youth group events and experiences at Greene Family Camp that helped shape her love for Jewish community and camp life.
With a smaller camp environment, Natalie is especially excited to really get to know each camper individually and help create a community where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. She is passionate about co-creation and teen leadership, and is looking forward to working together with campers to help shape experiences, activities, and memories throughout the summer. She already has lots of fun activities and adventures planned and cannot wait for an amazing summer together!
Outside of work, Natalie enjoys going to concerts, musical theater performances, and stand-up comedy shows. She is also a big fan of punk and metal music, Lady Gaga, The Simpsons, and Stranger Things.
My name is Jasmine Hunter, I am a five year teacher at Akiba Yavneh. I am Behavioral Therapist Certification and studied Psychology and Criminal Justice at Texas A&M Commerce University. Before Akiba, I worked at a behavioral clinic for children diagnosed with ASD,behavioral issues and learning disabilities. I was also a co-teacher for one year in a two-year-old classroom. I love football andin my free time, I am an athletic trainer for a semi-pro football league. My goal this year is to make a difference in the lives of my students.
Liela grew up in Southern California, participating in various Jewish Youth Organizations. She loves the energy and camaraderie of summer programs and can't wait to combine the fun camp atmosphere with traveling all over DFW, California, and the Midwest this summer. This is her fourth summer as the Teen Travel Camp Director. Liela loves helping teens create new memories, try different things, and have fun experiences.
During the year, Liela is the Youth and Teen Services Director at the JCC, where she oversees the after-school program, break programs, and the JCC Maccabi Games. Her leadership and program planning will create a memorable experience for teen campers this summer!
"Best time ever! Rebecca has been part of J DALLAS Camps since she was 6. TTC was the next step as she entered middle school. She had a blast last summer, made even more friends and can’t wait to return again this summer.”
"I am so glad I sent my son to Teen Travel Camp! It was nice to see him spending time doing stuff with other kids his age that didn’t involve a computer or other device. He had a ton of fun — we are signing him up again this year!”
"I can’t say enough about what a good experience Teen Travel Camp was for our family! It allowed my husband and I to spend some time together and on home projects, while our child had fun seeing their friends and doing fun things without her “embarrassing parents” getting in the way. Lol.”
"I am so glad I sent my son to Teen Travel Camp! It was nice to see him spending time doing stuff with other kids his age that didn’t involve a computer or other device. He had a ton of fun — we are signing him up again this year!”
