At Oak Crest in 07921, NJ, our Junior campers engage in a multifaceted array of activities, including Archery, Mountain Biking, Lacrosse, High Ropes, BMX, Skatepark, Camper vs. Wild (pioneering), and more. Their schedule is thoughtfully crafted to encompass diverse athletic and creative pursuits, complemented by Instructional Swim and the Climbing Tower. An exclusive perk for our Junior campers is the Late Night program, allowing them to extend their experience with a special dinner, additional swim time, extra games, a unique event, and a twilight campfire featuring S’mores.
Our Junior program, located in 07921, New Jersey, provides a wide array of athletic activities conducted on full-size fields. Our weekly schedules feature a comprehensive range of sports, including Soccer, Football, Tennis, Lacrosse, Archery, Basketball, Hockey, and more. Furthermore, juniors have the opportunity to explore our Skate Park and Mountain Biking Program. These sessions, guided by Athletic Specialists, incorporate skill instruction followed by games designed to reinforce the newly acquired abilities. Oak Crest counselors actively engage in these sessions, collaborating with specialists to create valuable success opportunities for campers.
At the Junior level, we introduce League Play, where groups participate in competitive activities such as Soccer, Handball, Football, and Dodgeball. These activities and opponents are rotated on a weekly basis, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for our young campers.
At Oak Crest, our Learn to Swim Program is an integral part of the Oak Crest experience, offering a state-of-the-art aquatic facility in 07921, NJ. Our aquatic amenities are unparalleled, with a dedicated 12,000-square-foot Aquatic Complex designed exclusively for 3rd Grade Juniors and a Gigantic Pool featuring eight 25-meter lanes for 4th-grade Juniors. Both facilities provide shallow water to accommodate swimmers of varying skill levels, starting from standing depth and progressing into deeper waters as their abilities advance.
Each morning, our Junior campers participate in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with additional support from group counselors. Our approach to swim lessons focuses on skill-based instruction rather than age-based grouping, ensuring that all swimmers face appropriate challenges based on their abilities. We take pride in annually training and certifying our instructors, adhering not only to American Red Cross standards but also drawing from over 25 years of practical experience in teaching children how to swim. In the afternoon, Juniors have the opportunity to enjoy free swim sessions in our pools.
At Oak Crest, our Learn to Swim Program stands as a fundamental component of the Oak Crest experience. Our state-of-the-art aquatic facility in Somerset, NJ, is unparalleled. The 3rd Grade Juniors utilize our recently constructed, state-of-the-art 12,000-square-foot Aquatic Complex tailored exclusively for 3-8 year-olds. Meanwhile, the 4th grade Juniors swim in our Gigantic Pool, featuring eight 25-meter lanes. Both facilities provide shallow water, enabling us to initiate all swimmers in standing depth and progress them into deeper water as their skills advance.
Each morning, Juniors partake in a 40-minute swim lesson guided by certified swim instructors, with group counselors offering support. Swim lessons are skill-based rather than age-based, ensuring a challenge for swimmers of all levels. We annually train and certify our instructors, drawing not only from American Red Cross standards but also from over 25 years of practical experience in teaching children how to swim. In the afternoon, Juniors have the opportunity for free swim in the pools.
At Oak Crest in 07921, NJ, we recognize that mastering the skill of riding a bicycle is a significant childhood milestone. Our newly established Bicycle Village offers an ideal environment for children to attain this skill. This facility boasts a 1/4 mile training course, a state-of-the-art pump track, and a mountain bike preparation trail, providing a comprehensive platform for learning.
Beyond the development of cycling proficiency, this activity imparts essential lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the refinement of motor skills. Our experienced instructors provide personalized attention, fostering the confidence needed for novice riders to succeed. As campers advance, they have the opportunity to participate in our dynamic Mountain Biking Program, with Oak Crest providing appropriately sized bikes and helmets to ensure their safety and enjoyment.
In 07921, NJ, our Junior campers at Oak Crest have the unique opportunity to experience all of our Ropes Courses. The Confidence Course, positioned at a height of 5 feet above the ground, serves as an introductory experience that allows campers to become familiar with belaying techniques and navigate various elements similar to those encountered in our High Ropes Course. The Climbing Tower boasts two distinct rock walls, a 200-yard zip line, and the exhilarating Giant Swing. The High Ropes course takes the adventure to new heights with additional rock walls and mid-air challenges.
To prioritize safety, our ropes courses undergo rigorous safety inspections and receive certification from the same company responsible for their construction prior to each season. In addition to these inspections, our certified ropes instructors, who guide groups through the courses, conduct daily assessments to ensure ongoing safety for all participants.
In 07921, NJ, during the Choice period at Oak Crest, campers have the freedom to select their preferred activity for the week. Each week, campers can choose from a rotating list of options, ensuring a diverse range of experiences throughout their summer stay. In addition to a wide array of athletic and creative choices, Junior campers also have the opportunity to participate in our annual Drama Production or join a specific Dance routine, a highlight event known as Showcrest.
At our camp located in 07921, NJ, our campers engage in collaborative, communicative, and supportive interactions within their designated groups throughout the day. Our counselors play an active role in cultivating an inclusive atmosphere, encouraging respectful communication and teamwork among campers and staff. Through shared experiences and group activities, these campers develop lasting bonds and meaningful friendships.
At Oak Crest, we are steadfast in our commitment to maintaining a zero-tolerance policy for bullying. Our priority is to create a nurturing environment where children not only enjoy their summer experience but also acquire essential emotional and social skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
