At Oak Crest in Monmouth Junction, NJ, junior campers engage in a dynamic array of activities such as Archery, Mountain Biking, Lacrosse, High Ropes, BMX, Skatepark, Camper vs. Wild (pioneering), and more. Their schedule incorporates a blend of athletic and creative endeavors, including Instructional Swim and the Climbing Tower. An exclusive 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, a unique event, and an evening campfire complete with S’mores.
Our Junior program in Monmouth Junction, New Jersey, offers a wide range of athletic activities on full-size fields. Each week, our schedule features sports such as Soccer, Football, Tennis, Lacrosse, Archery, Basketball, Hockey, and more. Additionally, juniors have the opportunity to explore our Skate Park and Mountain Biking Program, which are led by Athletic Specialists. These sessions include skill instruction followed by games to reinforce the newly acquired skills, with active involvement from Oak Crest counselors who support specialists in creating meaningful success opportunities for campers.
At the Junior level, we introduce League Play, where groups participate in Soccer, Handball, Football, and Dodgeball. Weekly rotations in activities and opponents provide a dynamic and competitive experience for our campers.
Your child will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of artistic activities led by experienced art teachers in air-conditioned classrooms located in Monmouth Junction, NJ. Campers engage in activities such as Ceramics, Music, Mad Science, Cooking, Drama, Nature, Camper vs. Wild, Dance, Digital Photography, Jewelry Making, Computers, and more on a weekly basis.
Moreover, all Junior Girl groups have the chance to showcase their talents in a dance routine as part of our annual event, Showcrest. This grand Dance and Drama Production occurs during the sixth week of camp at a local venue in the evening, featuring professional sound and lighting for a truly memorable experience.
At Oak Crest, our Learn to Swim Program is a cornerstone of the Oak Crest experience. Our state-of-the-art aquatic facility in Monmouth Junction, NJ, is unmatched in its quality. The 3rd Grade Juniors have the privilege of utilizing our recently constructed, state-of-the-art 12,000-square-foot Aquatic Complex, designed exclusively for 3-8 year-olds. Meanwhile, the 4th-grade Juniors enjoy swimming in our Gigantic Pool, which boasts eight 25-meter lanes. Both facilities offer shallow water areas, allowing us to begin all swimmers in standing depth and gradually progress them into deeper water as their skills improve.
Every morning, our Juniors participate in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with additional support provided by group counselors. Our swim lessons are skill-based rather than age-based, ensuring that swimmers of all levels are appropriately challenged. Our instructors undergo annual training and certification, adhering to American Red Cross standards and drawing from over 25 years of practical experience in teaching children how to swim. In the afternoons, Juniors have the opportunity for free swim in the pools.
At Oak Crest in Monmouth Junction, NJ, mastering the art of bicycle riding is considered a significant childhood milestone. Our newly established Bicycle Village offers children the perfect environment to develop this skill. This facility comprises a 1/4 mile training course, a state-of-the-art pump track, and a mountain bike preparation trail. Beyond instilling a sense of independence, cycling imparts crucial lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the refinement of motor skills. Our experienced instructors provide individualized attention, enabling novice riders to build the confidence necessary for success. As campers advance, they have the opportunity to participate in our dynamic Mountain Biking Program, complete with appropriately sized bikes and helmets provided by Oak Crest.
In Monmouth Junction, NJ, Junior campers at Oak Crest have the unique opportunity to engage in all of our Ropes Courses. Our Confidence Course, positioned 5 feet above the ground, allows campers to become acquainted 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 an exhilarating Giant Swing. The High Ropes Course offers even more challenging rock walls and mid-air obstacles.
Prior to the start of each season, our ropes courses undergo rigorous safety inspections and receive certification from the same company responsible for their construction. Additionally, our certified ropes instructors, who lead groups through the courses, perform daily inspections to ensure ongoing safety for all participants.
In Monmouth Junction, NJ, during the Choice period, campers have the opportunity to select an activity for the week. Each week, campers can explore a new activity from a regularly updated list. In addition to a diverse range of athletic and creative options, Juniors also have the choice to participate in our annual Drama Production or join a specific Dance routine. This annual event is known as Showcrest.
At our Monmouth Junction, NJ camp, campers engage in collaborative, communicative, and supportive activities within their designated groups throughout the day. The active participation of our counselors plays a pivotal role in creating an inclusive environment that encourages respectful interactions and effective communication among both campers and staff. Through these shared experiences, these groups develop deep connections and form lasting friendships.
Oak Crest is dedicated to upholding a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, placing a strong emphasis on fostering a nurturing environment where children can acquire the emotional and social skills necessary for lifelong success.
