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TRANSPORTATION OPTIONSOak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ
Juniors (3rd & 4th Graders) Summer Camp near Basking Ridge
At Oak Crest in Basking Ridge, NJ, junior campers delve into a multifaceted spectrum of activities, such as Archery, Mountain Biking, Lacrosse, High Ropes, BMX, Skatepark, Camper vs. Wild (pioneering), and more. Their schedule encompasses a diverse array of athletic and creative pursuits, complemented by Instructional Swim and access to the Climbing Tower. A distinctive benefit for junior campers is the Late Night program, offering them the opportunity to extend their stay for a special dinner, extra swim time, additional games, exclusive events, and a twilight campfire complete with S’mores.
Junior Athletics
Our Junior program, situated in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, offers an array of diverse athletic activities conducted on full-size fields. Weekly schedules feature sports such as Soccer, Football, Tennis, Lacrosse, Archery, Basketball, Hockey, and more. In addition, our juniors have the opportunity to explore our Skate Park and Mountain Biking Program, all of which are led by specialized athletic instructors. These sessions include skill instruction followed by games designed to reinforce the newly acquired abilities. Oak Crest counselors actively engage and collaborate with specialists to create meaningful success opportunities for our campers.
At the Junior level, we introduce League Play, where groups participate in competitive matches of Soccer, Handball, Football, and Dodgeball. Activities and opponents rotate weekly, providing a dynamic and spirited experience for our campers.
Creative Arts
Your child will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of artistic activities, led by experienced art educators in climate-controlled classrooms located in Basking Ridge, NJ. Our campers actively engage in a weekly rotation of artistic pursuits, including Ceramics, Music, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature, Camper vs. Wild, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, Computers, and more.
Moreover, all Junior Girl groups have the opportunity to showcase their talents through a captivating dance routine as part of our annual event, Showcrest—a grand Dance and Drama Production. This significant production takes center stage during the sixth week of camp, hosted at a local venue in the evening, complete with professional sound and lighting for an unforgettable experience.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest, our Learn to Swim Program is an integral part of the Oak Crest experience. Situated in our state-of-the-art aquatic facility in Basking Ridge, NJ, this program is unparalleled in its commitment to water safety and skill development. Our aquatic facilities are designed to cater to the specific needs of our campers. The 3rd Grade Juniors benefit from our recently constructed, state-of-the-art 12,000-square-foot Aquatic Complex, which is tailored exclusively for 3-8 year-olds. Meanwhile, the 4th grade Juniors enjoy swimming in our Gigantic Pool, boasting eight 25-meter lanes. Both facilities offer shallow water areas, allowing us to initiate all swimmers at a standing depth and gradually progress them into deeper water as their skills advance.
Each morning, our Juniors engage in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with group counselors providing additional support. Our swim lessons are skill-based, rather than age-based, ensuring a challenging and personalized experience for swimmers of all levels. We annually train and certify our instructors, adhering to American Red Cross standards while also drawing 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.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
At Oak Crest in Basking Ridge, NJ, we recognize that mastering the skill of riding a bicycle is a significant childhood milestone. That’s why we’ve created the perfect environment for children to achieve this milestone at our brand new Bicycle Village. This cutting-edge facility boasts a 1/4 mile training course, a state-of-the-art pump track, and a mountain bike preparation trail. Beyond fostering independence, learning to cycle imparts valuable lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of essential motor skills. Our experienced instructors provide personalized attention, helping novice riders build the confidence they need. As campers progress, they have the opportunity to participate in our dynamic Mountain Biking Program, with Oak Crest providing appropriately sized bikes and helmets for their safety and enjoyment.
Ropes Courses
In Basking Ridge, NJ, our Junior campers at Oak Crest have the exciting opportunity to participate in all of our Ropes Courses. The Confidence Course, positioned 5 feet above the ground, provides campers with the chance to familiarize themselves with belaying techniques and navigate various elements similar to those found in our High Ropes Course. The Climbing Tower is equipped with two distinct rock walls, a 200-yard zip line, and an exhilarating Giant Swing, offering additional challenges and adventure. The High Ropes Course further extends the experience with more rock walls and mid-air challenges.
Prior to the start of each season, our ropes courses undergo rigorous safety inspections and certification, conducted by the same company responsible for their construction. Furthermore, our certified ropes instructors, who expertly guide groups through these courses, perform daily inspections to ensure ongoing safety for all participants.
Choice
In Basking Ridge, NJ, during the Choice period, our campers have the opportunity to select an activity for the week. Each week, campers can opt for a new activity from a regularly updated list. In addition to a wide array of athletic and creative choices, our Junior campers can also choose to participate in our annual Drama Production or take part in a specific Dance routine. This much-anticipated annual event is known as Showcrest.
Social Development
At our Basking Ridge, NJ location, our campers actively engage in collaboration, communication, and mutual support within their designated groups throughout the day. Our dedicated counselors play an integral role in nurturing an inclusive atmosphere, encouraging respectful interactions, and facilitating effective communication among campers and staff members. Through shared experiences and activities, these groups develop strong bonds and foster lasting friendships.
At Oak Crest, we maintain a steadfast commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, prioritizing a nurturing environment where children have the opportunity to acquire essential emotional and social skills that are crucial for lifelong success.
