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2025 DATES & RATES
TRANSPORTATION OPTIONSOak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ 10 Years Running
Summer Camp near Belle Mead
Explorers (1st and 2nd Graders)
Explorers, mirroring the engaging activities of Munchkins, actively participate in a well-rounded blend of athletic and creative pursuits. The program places a particular focus on refining swimming skills and fostering social and emotional intelligence. As first graders progress through their Oak Crest experience, they are introduced to thrilling adventures such as the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and the exciting game of GAGA.
Upon reaching second grade, campers step into a unique aspect of the program known as CHOICE periods. This innovative approach allows them to exercise autonomy by selecting their preferred activities on a weekly basis. The introduction of CHOICE not only personalizes the camper’s experience but also empowers them to actively shape their Oak Crest journey. This individualized approach ensures that second-grade campers find joy and fulfillment in their chosen activities, contributing to a memorable and enriching summer at Oak Cres.
Juniors (3rd & 4th Graders)
Oak Crest’s Junior program offers a diverse array of activities, providing a well-rounded experience for campers. Engaging in pursuits such as Archery, Mountain Biking, Lacrosse, High Ropes, BMX, Skatepark, and the thrilling Camper vs. Wild, Juniors are immersed in both athletic and creative endeavors. The program is designed to not only entertain but also educate, incorporating Instructional Swim and granting access to the Climbing Tower to further develop skills and confidence.As part of the Junior experience, campers get to extend the fun with Late Nights. This unique feature provides extended camp access, offering a special dinner, additional swim and games, a unique event, and culminating in a twilight campfire complete with the classic delight of S’mores. The inclusion of Late Nights adds an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie to the Junior program, creating lasting memories for campers as they fully immerse themselves in the Oak Crest experience.
Seniors (5th & 6th Graders)
Oak Crest’s Senior campers engage in a rich and diverse spectrum of activities, immersing themselves in the full camp experience. Beyond the regular routine, they embark on exhilarating day trips to popular destinations such as Dorney Park, infusing their summer with excitement and adventure.
The Senior program goes beyond the conventional by offering a wide range of advanced Choice offerings. This unique feature empowers campers to tailor their experience, allowing them to delve deeper into specific interests and activities that resonate with them personally. This personalized approach not only adds depth to their Oak Crest journey but also promotes individual growth and exploration.
Adding an extra layer of enjoyment to their summer nights, Senior Late Nights are a highlight for these older campers. With extended camp time, a specially curated dinner, additional swim and games, a unique event, and a twilight campfire featuring the classic treat of S’mores, these evenings create a memorable and unique atmosphere. Senior Late Nights not only extend the joyous moments but also provide a space for seniors to forge lasting connections, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie that defines the Oak Crest experience.
Teen Travel (7th, 8th, & 9th Graders)
Choice is a dynamic and personalized aspect of our camp experience where campers have the opportunity to select an activity for a designated period each week. The options are ever-evolving, presenting campers with a fresh array of choices every week to keep the excitement alive. In this way, our campers can explore different activities, fostering a sense of variety and personal discovery.
Beyond the array of athletic and creative activities, Senior campers can elevate their camp involvement by choosing to play a role in our annual Drama Production or participating in a special Dance routine, collectively known as Showcrest. The annual Dance and Drama Production stands out as a highlight in our camp calendar, with Senior campers taking center stage in both the Drama and Dance segments, adding a touch of excellence to the overall production. The Senior performances consistently emerge as the pinnacle of the show, showcasing their talent and enthusiasm for the arts within the vibrant Oak Crest community.
Social Development
Oak Crest’s camp counselors play a pivotal role in guiding campers through a series of team-building challenges and competitions. These activities are carefully designed not only for entertainment but with the explicit purpose of nurturing qualities like teamwork, support, and effective communication. This structured environment serves as a breeding ground for respect and the formation of lifelong friendships among campers.
Oak Crest takes a strong stance against bullying, maintaining a zero-tolerance policy. This commitment underscores the camp’s dedication to providing a secure and caring environment for children and young teens. Beyond just a recreational setting, Oak Crest is deeply invested in the holistic development of its campers, focusing on the cultivation of essential emotional and social skills that will serve them well beyond their time at camp. The emphasis on a positive, supportive atmosphere ensures that campers not only have a memorable summer experience but also acquire valuable life skills in the process.
LIT Program (10th & 11th Graders)
The LIT Experience is a targeted program designed for 9th, 10th, and 11th graders, offering hands-on leadership skill development in a dynamic camp setting. Participants delve into practical aspects of leadership, honing problem-solving abilities, mastering the art of positive role modeling, and cultivating effective teamwork.
At its core, the program emphasizes a sense of responsibility, aspiring to equip LITs with essential skills that extend far beyond the camp environment. The focus is not only on immediate benefits but on preparing participants for success in future academic pursuits and professional careers. By instilling these qualities, the LIT Experience positions its participants for roles as exceptional camp staff, creating a seamless transition from leadership development to active contribution within the camp community. This program serves as a stepping stone for young individuals, guiding them toward a path of personal growth and preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in college and their future careers.
