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TRANSPORTATION OPTIONSOak Crest Day Camp: Voted Best Camp in NJ 10 Years Running
Summer Camp near Watchung
Oak Crest Day Camp, located near Watchung, NJ, is a renowned summer destination for children aged 3 to 15. The camp provides convenient door-to-door transportation, making it an ideal choice for busy parents. Oak Crest offers a wide range of activities to engage children of all ages, including swimming, biking, rock climbing, and arts and crafts for younger campers.
As children mature, they can participate in specialized programs like day trips and overnight excursions, fostering independence and valuable life skills. Whether a child is interested in improving swimming, mastering biking, or developing social, teamwork, and leadership abilities, Oak Crest offers a supportive and dynamic environment for growth.
Recognizing the demands of modern family life, Oak Crest Day Camp offers flexible scheduling options, including early enrollment and late drop-off services. This commitment to accommodating family needs ensures that parents can confidently entrust their children to have an enriching summer experience while managing their busy schedules. With its comprehensive program and family-friendly services, Oak Crest Day Camp creates a setting where summer memories are cherished, friendships are forged, and children are encouraged to explore, learn, and thrive.
3-5 Year Olds (Munchkins)
Oak Crest offers two program options for children aged 3 to 5 in the Munchkin Division: a 5 full-day and a 3 full-day program. These programs maintain a low camper-to-staff ratio, typically with 10 to 12 campers per group and 3 to 4 staff members, ensuring individualized attention and safety.
One key focus of the Munchkin Program is swimming. The program places a strong emphasis on helping children become comfortable and proficient in the water. Additionally, it enhances their gross and fine motor skills through various athletic and creative activities. These activities are led by specially trained Munchkin Specialists, who tailor the experience to the child’s age and provide an enriching experience.
Explorers (1st and 2nd Graders)
In the Explorers program at Watchung, children partake in athletic and creative activities to improve swimming abilities and cultivate social and emotional intelligence. First graders are introduced to adventurous activities such as the Climbing Tower, Zipline, Giant Swing, and GAGA. In the second grade, campers have the opportunity to choose preferred activities during CHOICE periods on a weekly basis, allowing for personalized experiences.
Juniors (3rd & 4th Graders)
Watchung’s Junior program at Oak Crest encompasses diverse activities such as Archery, Mountain Biking, Lacrosse, High Ropes, BMX, Skatepark, and Camper vs. Wild. This program combines athletic and creative pursuits, offers Instructional Swim sessions, and provides access to the Climbing Tower. Juniors also relish Late Nights, which extend camp hours, include a special dinner, additional swim time, games, a unique event, and a twilight campfire featuring S’mores.
Seniors (5th & 6th Graders)
At Watchung’s Oak Crest, senior campers engage in all camp activities, numerous thrilling day trips, and a wide array of advanced Choice options. They also take part in Senior Late Nights, which extend camp hours and include a special dinner, extra swim time, games, a unique event, and a twilight campfire complete with S’mores.
Teen Travel (7th, 8th, & 9th Graders)
During the Choice period at Watchung, campers have the opportunity to choose a weekly activity of their preference from a rotating list of options. Besides the array of athletic and creative activities, senior campers can also opt to participate in the annual Drama Production or be part of a special Dance routine known as Showcrest. The involvement of senior campers in both the Drama and Dance productions consistently serves as the highlight of the show.
Social Development
At Watchung’s Oak Crest, camp counselors guide groups in team-building challenges and competitions, emphasizing teamwork, support, and communication. This structured approach cultivates respect and enduring friendships. The camp strictly enforces a zero-tolerance policy against bullying, prioritizing the creation of a nurturing atmosphere where children and young adolescents can nurture crucial emotional and social skills.
LIT Program (10th & 11th Graders)
The LIT (Leadership in Training) Experience at Watchung is a program designed for 9th, 10th, or 11th graders. It provides a hands-on opportunity for participants to develop leadership skills in a dynamic environment, with a specific focus on problem-solving, role modeling, and teamwork. The program places a strong emphasis on instilling responsibility in LITs, with the aim of preparing them for future success in college, careers, and potential roles as outstanding camp staff members.
