Take a Virtual Tour
2025 DATES & RATES
TRANSPORTATION OPTIONSOak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ
Explorers (1st & 2nd Graders) Summer Camp near 08558
At Oak Crest in 08558, NJ, our program adapts to the evolving needs of our campers as they grow. The Explorer program, similar to the Munchkin program, prioritizes skill development in a variety of athletic and creative pursuits. It emphasizes refining swimming abilities and nurturing social and emotional intelligence.
For first-grade campers, the program introduces exciting activities such as the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and embraces the Oak Crest tradition of GAGA. As campers progress into second grade, they gain the opportunity to choose activities during a designated CHOICE period each week, fostering a dynamic and engaging camp experience.
Explorer Athletics
Located in 08558, NJ, our Summer Camp provides 1st and 2nd graders with a unique sports experience. We’ve adapted traditional sports, using scaled-down fields and courts with age-appropriate equipment to ensure our campers can succeed while learning fundamental game skills. Our dedicated Athletic Specialists lead these activities, dedicating a portion of each session to instructing new skills, followed by gameplay that emphasizes these skills.
At Oak Crest, our counselors actively engage in these activities alongside the campers. They collaborate with our specialists to create and reinforce opportunities for success, ensuring a positive and enriching experience for our young participants.
Creative Arts
Located in 08558, NJ, your child will have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of artistic activities, all conducted in air-conditioned classrooms by experienced art teachers. Each week, campers participate in sessions encompassing Ceramics, Music, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, Computers, and other creative disciplines.
Furthermore, all Explorer Girl groups take part in a Dance routine as an integral component of our annual Showcrest event—a significant Dance and Drama Production. Showcrest is a grand production that typically occurs during the sixth week of camp in the evening, held at a local venue, and featuring professional sound and lighting for a memorable experience.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest in 08558, NJ, our Learn-to-Swim Program is a cornerstone of the Oak Crest experience. Our aquatic facility is unrivaled, boasting a state-of-the-art 12,000 square foot Aquatic Complex designed specifically for children aged 3-8 years. The Aquatic Complex offers varying water depths from 1 to 6 feet, allowing us to begin instruction in standing-depth water and progress to deeper levels as our young swimmers advance in their skills.
Each morning, our Explorer campers engage in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with group counselors providing support. In the afternoon, the groups return for free swim sessions. Our swim lessons are skill-based rather than age-based, allowing us to challenge swimmers of all proficiency levels. Our instructors undergo annual training, and our swim techniques draw from not only the American Red Cross but also more than 25 years of practical experience in instructing children in swimming.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
At Oak Crest, situated in 08558, NJ, we understand that learning to ride a bicycle is a significant childhood milestone. That’s why we’ve created an ideal setting for this endeavor with our newly established Bicycle Village. This village boasts a 1/4-mile training course, a state-of-the-art pump track, and a mountain bike preparation trail.
Cycling not only nurtures independence in children but also imparts valuable lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of motor skills. Our experienced instructors provide personalized attention, helping novice bikers build the confidence they need to succeed. Oak Crest ensures the availability of suitably sized bikes and helmets to facilitate the learning process.
Ropes Course and Low Ropes Course
Located in 08558, NJ, Oak Crest has recently introduced a low ropes course designed to serve a dual purpose. It focuses on developing the gross motor skills of our 1st Grade Explorers while equipping them with essential skills for navigating our Climbing Tower. The 1st Grade Explorers participate in activities on the Low Ropes Course, which involve climbing, exploration, and swinging, all conducted just inches above the ground.
Upon advancing to 2nd Grade, Oak Crest campers have the opportunity to experience the Climbing Tower and Zipline for the first time. Our Ropes Course is thoughtfully designed to allow campers to progress at their individual pace. As they gain comfort and confidence, they gain access to higher and more advanced elements.
Prior to each season, our ropes courses undergo rigorous safety inspections and certification by the company that constructed them. Additionally, certified ropes instructors, who also lead the groups through all ropes courses, conduct daily safety checks, ensuring a secure and enriching experience for our campers.
Social Development
At Oak Crest in 08558, NJ, within the Explorer Division, we prioritize the development of collaborative skills within a group setting. Throughout the day, our campers are encouraged to work together, fostering mutual support and cooperation. The group structure, along with the active involvement of our counselors, plays a vital role in cultivating strong bonds and lasting friendships among campers.
Our dedicated counselors also provide guidance on respectful interaction with others and effective communication with both peers and staff members. Oak Crest offers a nurturing environment where children can acquire the emotional and social skills that are essential for success in life.
