best 11 programs in Elmer, NJ

Nestled in 178 acres of lush woodland is a serene escape from the city, a place fondly known as Camp Swamp. This overnight Christian camp, located just two hours east of bustling Atlanta, has been serving as a peaceful retreat since 1992. We like to think of it as our own "little slice of heaven," offering a respite from the daily hustle and bustle, and inviting people to reconnect with nature and their spirituality. Our primary offering is a week-long summer camp, but we've expanded over the years to include more than just summer fun. As part of our mission to support families and churches, we now also host three family camps throughout the year, as well as four parent/child retreats. These events offer a chance for families to bond, parents to connect with their children, and individuals to grow in their faith. Moreover, our facilities are not exclusive to our organized events. Camp Swamp also offers rentals to schools, churches, universities, sports teams, and even business groups. Whether you're planning a camp, a retreat, or a team-building excursion, our serene setting and well-equipped facilities provide the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

At Camp Merrywood, pre-teens and teens have the opportunity to socialize, explore, and grow in an outdoor environment. With 68 acres of outdoor playground, campers can enjoy activities such as kayaking, zip lining, archery, arts & crafts, and science activities. Camp Merrywood is the perfect place for your child to make new friends, learn, and try something new. Whether you choose to enroll them for a week or the whole summer long, your child can enjoy a safe and nurturing atmosphere while developing their social, creative, and physical skills.

At Appel Farm Arts & Music Center, we believe artmaking is a powerful tool for healing and connecting with others. We have been serving our community as a non-profit since 1978, providing a place for people of all ages, cultures and economic backgrounds to appreciate, study and actively participate in the visual and performing arts. Throughout our seven decades of service, we have continued to expand our programs to include a wide range of arts activities, from local to national and even international projects. We strive to ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy that comes with artmaking. Our programs reach over 32,000 children and adults each year, proving that the power of the arts can truly make a difference in people’s lives. At Appel Farm, we are proud to be part of a vibrant and diverse community of art makers, and we are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone to express themselves and explore their creativity. We are passionate about continuing to make artmaking a healing, joyous, and fulfilling experience for our community.