Gems Camp
What is Gems Camp?
Gems Camp is the Gemstone Honors Program's optional, two-night, off campus orientation program designed to help incoming Gemstone students transition to the University of Maryland and the Gemstone Honors Program prior to the first day of classes. Campers stay in cabins (that have a/c!) and participate in fun team building activities and meet new students while learning valuable information about UMD and Gemstone. There will also be plenty of free-time for stand-up paddle boarding, canoeing, crafts, s'mores, and more! Gems Camp 2025 will occur August 26 - August 28, 2025.
At Gems Camp, first-year students immediately develop a diverse social network of fellow classmates, upperclassmen, and Gemstone staff. You will start college with the pride and excitement of a True Terp along with an introduction of campus culture and traditions.
Students who attend Gems Camp will be able to move into their residential hall early on the morning of August 26th. This early move-in date is not available to most first year students and will allow for a faster and less crowded move-in experience. Students should be on the lookout from the Department of Resident Life in mid-July regarding early move-in options.
Gems Camp 2025 registration is open! Please register for camp via this link by July 18th.
The theme for Gems Camp 2025 is "Starting on the right note (with Gemstone!)." Follow the Gemstone Leadership Council on Instagram for more information about camp @gemstonecouncil!
We cannot wait to meet you! Questions? Email gemscamp@umd.edu or call 301-458-0784.
Coming in as an out-of-state freshman, I was terrified to start college without knowing anyone. Gems Camp was a really fun experience that solved that problem, and I ended up starting friendships that I still have two years later. I loved it so much that I became a camp leader for the last two years, and I truly think every freshman should go to Gems Camp if they can.