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TRANSPORTATION OPTIONSOak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ
Juniors (3rd & 4th Graders) Summer Camp near Somerset
At Oak Crest in Skillman, NJ, junior campers engage in a diverse array of activities, such as archery, mountain biking, lacrosse, high ropes, BMX, skatepark, Camper vs. Wild (pioneering), and more. Their schedule is a blend of athletic and creative pursuits, including instructional swim and the climbing tower. Juniors also enjoy a distinctive benefit: the Late Night program, which extends their stay for a special dinner, extra swim time, additional games, unique events, and a twilight campfire featuring S’mores.
Junior Athletics
Our Junior program, located in Skillman, New Jersey, offers a diverse array of athletic activities on full-size fields. Weekly schedules are packed with sports like soccer, football, tennis, lacrosse, archery, basketball, hockey, and more. In addition, juniors can explore our Skate Park and Mountain Biking Program, led by dedicated Athletic Specialists who provide skill instruction followed by skill-reinforcing games. Oak Crest counselors actively participate, collaborating with specialists to create meaningful opportunities for camper success.
At the Junior level, we introduce League Play, featuring engaging activities like soccer, handball, football, and dodgeball. These activities and opponents rotate weekly, delivering a dynamic and competitive experience for our campers.
Creative Arts
In Skillman, NJ, your child will enjoy a variety of artistic activities led by experienced art teachers in comfortable, air-conditioned classrooms. Campers have the opportunity to engage in diverse activities such as ceramics, music, mad science, cooking, drama, nature exploration, Camper vs. Wild, dance, digital photography, jewelry making, computers, and more on a weekly basis.
In addition to these creative pursuits, all Junior Girl groups have the chance to showcase their talents in a grand event called Showcrest. This annual Dance and Drama Production occurs during the sixth week of camp at a local venue in the evening, complete with professional sound and lighting, allowing campers to shine on stage.
Learn to Swim
At Oak Crest, our Learn to Swim Program is an essential part of the Oak Crest experience. Located in Skillman, NJ, our state-of-the-art aquatic facility is unmatched. Third-grade Juniors benefit from our recently constructed 12,000-square-foot Aquatic Complex designed exclusively for 3-8 year-olds, while fourth-grade Juniors swim in our Gigantic Pool featuring eight 25-meter lanes. Both facilities provide shallow water for the initial stages of swimming instruction, progressing to deeper water as skills develop.
Each morning, Juniors participate in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with group counselors offering additional support. Our swim lessons are skill-based rather than age-based, ensuring a challenging experience for swimmers of all levels. 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 afternoon, Juniors enjoy free swim in the pools.
Learn to Ride a Bicycle
At Oak Crest in Skillman, NJ, mastering the art of riding a bicycle is seen as a significant childhood milestone. We provide the ideal environment for children to achieve this milestone through our newly established Bicycle Village. This facility boasts a 1/4 mile training course, a state-of-the-art pump track, and a mountain bike preparation trail. Beyond instilling independence, cycling imparts valuable lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of motor skills. Our experienced instructors offer 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.
Ropes Courses
In Skillman, NJ, our Junior campers have the unique opportunity to experience all of Oak Crest’s Ropes Courses. The Confidence Course, positioned 5 feet above the ground, allows campers to become familiar with belaying and navigate various elements similar to those found in our High Ropes Course. Our Climbing Tower boasts two distinct rock walls, a 200-yard zip line, and the thrilling Giant Swing. The High Ropes course offers additional rock walls and mid-air challenges.
Safety is paramount, and prior to each season, our ropes courses undergo rigorous safety inspections and certification by the same company responsible for their construction. Moreover, our certified ropes instructors, who guide groups through the courses, conduct daily inspections to ensure ongoing safety.
Choice
Located in Skillman, NJ, during the Choice period, campers have the flexibility to select an activity for the week. Each week, campers can choose from a regularly updated list of options. In addition to a wide range of athletic and creative choices, Junior campers can also opt to participate in our annual Drama Production or join in a specific Dance routine, which is featured in our annual event known as Showcrest.
Social Development
At our Skillman, NJ camp, campers engage in collaborative, communicative, and supportive activities within their designated groups throughout the day. Our counselors actively participate, creating an inclusive atmosphere that encourages respectful interaction and effective communication among both campers and staff. Through shared experiences, these groups develop strong bonds and lasting friendships. Oak Crest maintains a steadfast commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, prioritizing a nurturing environment where children can acquire the emotional and social skills crucial for lifelong success.
