best nature programs in Scotch Plains, NJ

Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!

At Camp Amity Acres, your daughter can explore her creative side and think outside the box. Located close to the Garden State Parkway in Waretown/Barnegat, New Jersey, Camp Amity Acres offers summer camp days from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, with extended care available from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. Girls ages 3-15 and boys ages 3-12 are welcome to join in the fun. All girls and boys, regardless of their Girl Scout affiliation, are welcome to participate in this unique camp experience. At Camp Amity Acres, your child will expand their horizons and explore their creative side. From art projects to nature hikes, your daughter will have the chance to try new things and build lifelong friendships. With extended care options available, parents can rest assured that their children are in good hands. Camp Amity Acres is the perfect place for your daughter to build confidence, make new friends, and think outside the box. With camp days running from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and extended care available from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, all girls and boys ages 3-15 are welcome to join in the fun. So bring a friend and come explore the creative possibilities at Camp Amity Acres!

At Black Bear Lake, we believe that empowering campers to make their own choices and guiding them to explore their interests in-depth will provide the perfect summer experience for your child. With our Choice Elective Program, campers can customize their summer and create lasting memories! At Black Bear Lake, your child is in control! Our Choice Elective Program allows them to choose the activities that they want to explore and participate in alongside campers with similar interests. With over 50 diverse and exciting activities to choose from, including soccer, tennis, arts and crafts, and cooking, your child can customize their summer to discover new interests, learn new skills, and improve their talents. We understand how important it is to give your child the opportunity to make their own decisions and explore their interests. That’s why we created our Choice Elective Program to give them the power to customize their summer and create lasting memories. At Black Bear Lake, we provide an unforgettable summer experience for your child. With our innovative Choice Elective Program, your child can choose the activities they want to explore and have fun doing it!

All of the buses are tracked and monitored with GPS technology. Our summer day camp program offers a variety of activities designed to meet the needs and interests of children in each age group. Kids can enjoy outdoor activities, field trips, crafts, nature hikes, and much more. With well-trained and caring counselors, your child will be in great hands. Plus, each program has been structured to provide a safe and fun environment for your child. At our summer day camp, we make sure that your child has an enjoyable and memorable summer. With door to door busing and GPS tracking, you can have peace of mind that your child is safe and secure. Plus, with structured activities for your child's age group, along with caring counselors, your child will have the perfect summer experience.

There’s a feeling you get when you visit our camp. You realize you’ve entered a very special place. A place where children can enjoy being active and pursue their own interests in an outdoor paradise. Our 450-acre site offers incredible opportunities for outdoor activities. A place where kids can be kids! We are a community that values friendship and encourages each member to do their best. A camp that’s big enough to offer a wide range of programs, yet small enough to ensure that every camper receives individual attention and is valued as a person.

At GSB Summer Camp, we believe in the power of play, exploration, and social connection. Our campers come from all over the region and build lasting friendships. With meaningful activities that fit their individual interests, our campers have the opportunity to explore new passions, discover new interests, and develop a sense of independence. From archery and sports to art and music, there’s something for everyone to experience. We understand the importance of safety and strive to provide our campers with a safe and secure environment. We’re proud of our staff for creating an atmosphere of trust and respect, while encouraging our campers to have a great time. With certified lifeguards, our age-appropriate experiences are designed to help foster a love of learning and a passion for the outdoors. At GSB Summer Camp, we are committed to providing preschoolers to eighth-graders with a unique summer camp experience. Our programs are designed to help campers gain confidence, build social skills, and make lifelong memories in the great outdoors. From exciting activities and new experiences to lifelong friendships, our campers will have an experience they won’t forget.

For over 175 years, the Y has been dedicated to the global mission of ensuring everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from, has access to the resources, relationships and opportunities needed to learn, grow and thrive. Bringing together people of all backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the Y works to improve overall health and well-being, ignite youth empowerment and demonstrate the importance of connections in and across 10,000 communities nationwide. At Greater Somerset County YMCA, we strive to provide a safe, welcoming environment for all. We offer programs for kids, adults, teens and seniors to engage in physical activity, build relationships and learn new skills. With nearly 30,000 members, the Y is here to help you grow, connect and thrive.

For more than 115 years, the Princeton-Blairstown Center has provided adventure-based, experiential education to youth from historically marginalized communities. What began in 1908 as a summer camp run by Princeton University students and faculty has evolved into an outdoor education center with a wide variety of year-round programs serving nearly 6,000 young people each year. Today, our award-winning Summer Bridge Program as well as our Venture Out and Leader-in-Training Programs serve as the centerpieces of the Center's work, providing educational programs designed to lessen learning loss to approximately 650 students from historically marginalized communities in Trenton, Newark, and Camden, NJ free of charge.

for the camp season. Neil Klatskin Day Camps at the Kaplen JCC on the Palisades is the perfect place for children to have a ton of fun while growing and maturing in a communal setting. Kids get to challenge their bodies, minds and imaginations while learning the importance of cooperation and communication with others. Not to mention, they get to strengthen their Jewish identity! The staff at NKDC are dedicated to helping children become more self-aware and gain self-esteem as they navigate the ever-changing world around them. The camp sets a positive and welcoming atmosphere that encourages campers to reach the highest standards and goals of the camp season. At Neil Klatskin Day Camps, children get to make lifelong memories, gain important life skills and grow in a safe and supportive environment. It is the perfect place for a child to have fun, learn and grow!

At Greater Somerset County YMCA, we provide programs and services designed to promote health and wellness for all ages. Our commitment to the community extends beyond our services to include partnerships and collaborations, as well as advocacy for issues affecting our community. We strive to create an atmosphere of inclusion and acceptance for everyone. Our Christian values guide us in our mission to help all people grow in spirit, mind and body. We are dedicated to providing a safe, welcoming and supportive environment for all who walk through our doors. Our commitment to caring, honesty, respect and responsibility drive us to offer programs that build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. At Greater Somerset County YMCA, we are proud to be a part of this vibrant community. We invite you to join us and experience the positive impact that comes from being part of a community that values acceptance, inclusion and respect. Let's work together to create a better, healthier tomorrow for everyone.

Camp Carr is the perfect destination for your camper this summer! Located in Clinton Township, this beautiful campground offers your child the opportunity to explore nature and create lasting memories with newfound friends. Our counselors are all former campers, who are passionate about sharing their positive camp experience with the next generation. Every day is packed with an exciting, structured schedule with a different theme each session. Campers will learn about the outdoors, take on thrilling adventures, and develop self-confidence. If you’re looking for an unforgettable camping experience for your child this summer, Camp Carr is the perfect place to be! Located in the picturesque Clinton Township, Camp Carr offers your child the chance to explore nature and build lifelong friendships. Our counselors are all former campers, eager to pass on their positive camp experiences to the next generation. Campers can expect a day full of thrilling activities, with a different theme each session. Not only will they learn all about the outdoors, but they will also take on daring adventures and build their self-confidence.

At Camp Yachad, we understand the importance of a traditional camp experience. Located conveniently on our campsite next to the JCC, our campers and staff can look forward to making lifelong friendships and creating unforgettable memories. Furthermore, our campers will gain invaluable confidence and life-skills that will last them their entire lifetime! But Camp Yachad is not only about traditional camp experiences. We are proud to offer our campers an unparalleled travel program. With our travel program, our campers can explore new places, try new activities, and make new friends. Through our travel program, our campers can broaden their horizons and experience the world in a safe and exciting way. At Camp Yachad, we believe that each summer experience should be unique and unforgettable. Through our traditional camp activities, our campers will learn how to make strong friendships, create lasting memories, and gain important life-skills. Along with our traditional camp experience, our travel program allows campers to explore and discover the world around them in an exciting and safe way. So, if you’re looking for a summer experience that is both fun and educational, then Camp Yachad is the perfect spot for you!

At Trail Blazers, we recognize that with the right environment, all youth have the potential to learn, grow, and thrive. We are proud to create a safe space where children of all backgrounds and ages can foster relationships and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world. We have created a wide range of activities and programs that are designed to inspire, engage, and challenge our youth. Through our hands-on outdoor experiences, we strive to empower our participants with the skills and confidence to take on the world. Our programs are tailored to each individual and provide unique opportunities to explore the outdoors, learn about the environment, and build relationships. We provide a platform for youth to develop the courage and commitment to become the next generation of Trail Blazers.

Mercedes has a deep-seated love for horses that has followed her for her entire life. She started riding in her homeland of Argentina and has continued to do so wherever her travels have taken her. Now, her aim for River Edge is to create a peaceful space for horses where they will be provided with exceptional care and management. At River Edge, riders will have the opportunity to work with horses and learn how to ride in a natural and supportive environment. They'll be able to practice the art of tacking up, grooming, and more, all while gaining a deeper understanding of horses. With Mercedes' passion for horses and her drive to provide the best care for them, River Edge is sure to be a paradise for both horses and riders alike.

At Star Lake summer camp, campers can make lasting memories and gain a unique connection with nature. The Salvation Army has been providing this camp experience to children from the Greater New York area since 1923, giving thousands of youngsters the opportunity to explore the 400-acre property in Bloomingdale, New Jersey. Here, kids can enjoy activities such as boating, swimming and fishing in the three lakes and two waterfalls. Star Lake camp offers the chance for children to have a meaningful and fun vacation. Programs are tailored to provide campers with a sense of worship and reverence, as well as to help them discover their place in a larger world. Through these activities, children can gain confidence, learn new skills and form lifelong friendships. The Salvation Army has been providing joy and adventure to kids at Star Lake summer camp for nearly a century. With its stunning natural beauty, campers can be sure to come away with incredible memories and experiences that will stay with them for years to come.

At YWCA Northern New Jersey, our commitment to empowering women and girls is stronger than ever. Since our founding in 1919, we have been a leader in the fight against gender and racial discrimination, and we remain the oldest and largest multicultural women’s organization in the world. Our programs and services are tailored to meet the needs of our diverse communities, with a range of healingSPACE initiatives, anti-racism training, policy advocacy, and more. YWCA Northern New Jersey also provides essential child care services and senior wellness programs in the northern part of the state. We have recently extended our reach into Essex County, Hudson County, Morris County, and Passaic County, while continuing our deep commitment to the Bergen County community where we began our mission nearly a century ago. No matter the location, YWCA Northern New Jersey strives to create more just and inclusive communities each and every day. We work diligently to provide support and resources to empower women and girls, improve the lives of seniors, and ensure that everyone can enjoy the same rights and privileges no matter their background.

At JCC Camps at Medford, your child can have the ultimate summer experience. Our American Camp Association (ACA) accredited and award-winning Southern New Jersey day camp offers a wide range of activities for children ages 3-14. Located in the beautiful New Jersey Pinelands, our campgrounds are the perfect place to explore and have fun. Take to the skies and explore our spectacular campgrounds. Our experienced camp staff will ensure that your child has the best summer ever. With a wide range of activities, both on and off the campgrounds, your child can explore, play, and learn. From swimming and fishing in the lake to arts and crafts, our camp has something for everyone. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to make your child’s summer extra special. Come and join us at JCC Camps at Medford and give them the ultimate summer experience!

Parents, if you're looking for an outdoor experience that will help enrich and enhance your family's lives, look no further than our beautiful camp property in Medford, New Jersey. Located on more than 800 acres in the heart of the South Jersey Pinelands, our camp is just a half hour from Philadelphia and less than two hours from New York City. We provide year-round access to nature, adventure, environmental education, and fun through our top-notch summer camps (both overnight and co-ed day camp), our state-of-the-art Outdoor Center (challenge course, zipline, high and low rope elements, etc.), our weekend retreats, our wilderness trips, and our full schedule of family friendly programs. At our camp, you'll be able to enjoy the great outdoors with your family in a safe and secure environment. Whether it's activities like challenge courses, ziplining, and high and low rope elements in our Outdoor Center, or more traditional camp activities like swimming and archery, our wide selection of programs and activities will ensure there's something enjoyable for everyone. We invite you to come and experience the magic of our camp property today. We guarantee you won't regret it! With a variety of activities and programs available year-round, our camp property in Medford, New Jersey is the perfect place to get outside and enjoy nature with your family.

Camp Linwood MacDonald is the perfect place to explore new opportunities, cultivate meaningful relationships, and discover the power of outdoor adventure and learning. Each summer, we welcome thousands of campers of all ages and interests, from all walks of life. Our family-oriented programming is designed to provide campers with experiences that will last a lifetime. Our variety of summer sleepaway camps, retreats, and special events, as well as school and youth group programs and gatherings, offer something for everyone. From fishing to swimming, horseback riding to archery, and more, we make sure to provide engaging activities that appeal to campers of all ages and interests. Plus, our beautiful 200+ acre property provides a stunning backdrop for our programs.

At Seashore Day Camp, your children will have the best summer of their lives! Our highly trained and experienced counselors strive to make every summer memorable. Our unique program offers sports, swimming, arts and crafts, nature, drama, music and so much more. We offer both half-day and full-day programs for campers 3 to 15, and our extended-care hours make it easy for working parents. For 95 years, Seashore Day Camp has been providing area families with terrific programs and conveniences like door-to-door transportation and extended-care services, and this has earned us a Parents’ Pick and the 2020 Most Loved All Around Day Camp award. Our unique program offers a variety of activities, including sports, swimming, arts and crafts, nature, drama, and music. Parents, grandparents, students, campers, and alumni have all had positive experiences at Seashore and are happy to share their stories on our testimonial page. With half-day and full-day programs available for campers 3 to 15, Seashore Day Camp provides an unforgettable summer for kids and peace of mind for parents.

At Tall Pines Day Camp Inchope, campers get to experience the summertime to the fullest. Kids can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities from basketball and gaga to swimming, soccer, and miniature golf. Our camp strives to create a fun and positive work atmosphere, which is why our staff return rate is 90 percent, well above the national average of 50 percent. Each summer, we hire approximately 375 staff members to ensure a great experience for all our campers. At Tall Pines Day Camp Inchope, we are dedicated to providing campers with an unforgettable summer experience. Our campers can enjoy a balanced selection of activities, from basketball and gaga to swimming, soccer, and miniature golf. We prioritize creating a positive and inviting work atmosphere, which is why our staff return rate is 90 percent, far exceeding the national average of 50 percent. Every summer, we hire approximately 375 staff members to help make the camp experience as enjoyable as possible. Tall Pines Day Camp Inchope is the perfect place for kids to make lifelong memories. Our campers can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities while maintaining a balance between physical activities and fun. We’re proud to create a work atmosphere where our staff return each year, with our return rate at 90 percent, much higher than the national average of 50 percent. Each summer, we employ around 375 staff members to provide a great camp experience for all.

At JCC Abrams Camps, campers learn valuable skills, discover their Jewish identity and develop a lifelong love of Jewish culture and learning. JCC Abrams Camps offers a unique environment where campers can explore and grow. Our positive role models provide guidance and support that help campers develop their own values and sense of self. Campers learn to be kind and compassionate, to try new things and to take risks. Our campers are surrounded by a nurturing environment that promotes creativity, personal growth and powerful bonds of friendship. At JCC Abrams Camps, campers experience adventure, growth and fun in a safe, supportive and Jewish-centered environment. Through a variety of activities such as swimming, music, art and dance, our campers build lasting memories and friendships. We are committed to creating an atmosphere of inclusion and mutual respect, where campers can explore Jewish values, develop their identity and grow in a meaningful way.

With so many different kinds of camps out there, it can be hard to know what to choose. Day Camp Sunshine is an ideal option for parents who want to provide their children with a safe and enriching experience. We offer an exciting, well-rounded program for kids that connects them with transformative experiences for their spiritual, emotional, intellectual, relational and personal growth. At Day Camp Sunshine, we value creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for all our guests and their families. We know that a positive camp experience can shape how a child sees themselves and the world around them – that’s why we strive to make sure that DCS is “camp the way it should be.” Parents have told us that DCS is just that, and it’s something we’re proud of. For parents looking for a safe and educational camp experience for their children, Day Camp Sunshine is a great option. We offer a wide range of activities and experiences designed to give kids the opportunity to learn, grow and have fun in a secure environment. Our goal is to ensure that all our guests and their families have a positive experience that helps them encounter God’s transformational love.

At The Connection’s summer camp, your child will have an unforgettable summer experience. Our goal is to provide a physically and emotionally safe environment where campers can learn, grow, and form lasting friendships. Through recreational and educational activities, your child will gain self-confidence, learn to work together with others, and acquire a wealth of new knowledge and experiences. Our campers have the unique opportunity to explore the outdoors, discover new interests, and make lasting memories. Whether playing a game of tag or participating in an educational program, your child will build confidence and learn valuable life skills. The Connection’s summer camp has something for everyone. Our campers are encouraged to express themselves, be creative, and find their own unique talents. With our dedicated staff, campers are sure to have an enjoyable and safe summer.

Does your child love to explore, play, and create? At Camp STAR at Hillsborough YMCA, we have something for every kind of child! Our traditional multi-activity camp offers a mix and match of camp options for kids entering Kindergarten through 10th grade in September. Choose from traditional, arts, STEM, and sports camps to create the perfect camp experience your child will love. At Camp STAR at Hillsborough YMCA, we understand that you want the best for your child. That’s why we’re the nation’s largest nonprofit child care provider – so you can feel confident knowing your camper is getting a quality day camp experience. With our wide variety of camp options, you can find the perfect camp to suit your child’s individual interests and needs. At Camp STAR at Hillsborough YMCA, we offer something for every kind of child at every age. Our mix and match of traditional, arts, STEM, and sports camp options provide the perfect opportunity for your child to explore, play, and create. With our commitment to provide quality day camp experiences, you can trust that your camper will have an unforgettable and safe summer camp experience.

Atlantic Club is the perfect environment for your child to explore, discover, and grow! At the Atlantic Club, we are committed to providing your child with the best summer camp experience possible. Our 44 acre campus offers a variety of activities, including an Olympic size swimming pool, 2 tennis centers, a turf center, a baseball field, soccer fields, and bike trails. Our 24,000 square ft. air conditioned Fieldhouse is the perfect place for your child to make memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. Our experienced staff of counselors and coaches ensure a safe and fun environment for your child. Our team consists of teachers, students, and graduate students pursuing degrees in Elementary Education, Physical Education, Child Psychology, Social Work, The Arts, Drama, and other child-related studies. Our commitment to safety and dynamic programs allow your child to explore, discover, and grow in a positive atmosphere. The Atlantic Club is rated one of the best Summer Camps in Monmouth County and at the Jersey Shore for children age 2 through 17. We are dedicated to providing your child with the best summer camp experience. Our unique programs and emphasis on safety guarantee your child will have a summer full of fun and lasting memories.

Camp Blue Star, Hamilton Township Schools Community Education Department's summer day camp, is excited to announce the addition of exciting new technology that will appeal to tech-savvy campers! Imagine the fun that your child can have in the Wii Lab, with ten Nintendo Wii gaming systems, ten 32-inch flat screen video monitors, and ten Wii Fit accessory modules. This virtual reality technology encourages children to stay active while having a great time! If your child loves technology, Camp Blue Star is the perfect summer day camp for them! Hamilton Township Schools Community Education Department has outdone themselves with the introduction of the Wii Lab. This lab is full of ten Nintendo Wii gaming systems, ten 32-inch flat screen video monitors, and ten Wii Fit accessory modules. With this virtual reality technology, your child can have a blast while getting their daily dose of physical activity. Camp Blue Star is the perfect summer day camp for tech-savvy kids looking for a fun and active experience. Hamilton Township Schools Community Education Department has added the Wii Lab, complete with ten Nintendo Wii gaming systems, ten 32-inch flat screen video monitors, and ten Wii Fit accessory modules. Your child will have a blast and stay active with this virtual reality technology!

At Camp By The Sea, we understand that parents are entrusting us with their children and want the best for them. Our program emphasizes respect, responsibility, and physical activity which will help children grow socially and emotionally. We provide our campers with a wide variety of activities including arts and crafts, archery, sports, and swimming. Our campers also enjoy field trips to the zoo, museums, and more. We have something for everyone and our goal is to ensure that each camper has an unforgettable summer experience.

New Beginnings provides a comprehensive intake process for the homeless and drug addicted population. Through interactive discussions, we are able to identify the factors that lead to addiction and homelessness. Our compassionate staff then use this information to connect our clients to the right counseling and medical treatment. We’ve also invested in our mobile operations, which consists of a 38-foot retrofitted mobile home. This RV mobile resource center contains three showers, a washer and dryer, a mini kitchen and other amenities. This enables homeless individuals to take showers, obtain clothing, do laundry and maintain overall grooming in preparation for services. We believe that grooming and cleanliness is essential in restoring self-esteem for this population.

At Camp Coconuts, we believe in providing a life-changing experience for children during the summer. Our summer camp environment focuses on helping children learn new skills, build meaningful relationships, and take on exciting adventures. All these activities help kids develop physically, emotionally, and socially. We strive to create an atmosphere that is encouraging, fun, and dedicated to personal growth. At Camp Coconuts, we’re passionate about summer camp and making sure kids have the best experience possible. We know that the memories and friendships they make during their time here will last a lifetime. We are committed to helping children make the most out of their summer and have an incredible time in the process. We are grateful for your support and we look forward to an unforgettable summer at Camp Coconuts! We promise that your child will come home with a new outlook on life and a sense of accomplishment that only comes from having a summer full of fun and adventure.

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.

Chartwell's Happy Day Camp is the perfect place for children to make unforgettable summer memories! Campers get to take part in a variety of activities that build life skills while having a great time. From learning to work as a team to mastering a new craft, there's something for everyone. And with experienced counselors leading the way, parents can rest assured knowing their children are in good hands. Parents can feel confident sending their kids to Chartwell's Happy Day Camp. From sports and games to creative arts and outdoor exploration, campers are sure to have an amazing summer. Experienced counselors are there to make sure that every child is safe and having fun. And through the activities, kids will develop important social skills like teamwork and problem solving. Chartwell's Happy Day Camp is the perfect place for children to have an amazing summer. With a range of fun activities that help young people learn and grow, it's sure to be a summer to remember. Kids can make new friends, try new things, and develop social and life skills in a safe and supportive environment. So, don't wait - sign up for Chartwell's Happy Day Camp today!

At Johnsonburg, your child can expect all the fun of a traditional summer camp – from arts and crafts to swimming and sports – combined with a unique, enriching experience. With a range of activities and outdoor adventures, our campers will make memories that will last a lifetime. Our experienced counselors provide a safe and nurturing environment, giving campers the opportunity to explore, push their boundaries and grow their confidence. From the moment they arrive, our campers will feel the excitement and camaraderie that makes Johnsonburg one of the best summer camps in New Jersey.

Ivy League Day Camp embraces the summer season with enthusiasm and a commitment to making every summer a memorable one. Our campers enjoy a wide variety of activities and experiences that are designed to foster growth and development. From swimming and sports, to arts and crafts, to leadership and team building, we strive to provide campers with an environment in which they can thrive and have fun!

Inawendiwin is the perfect camp for any summer adventure! This sprawling 395-acre camp located in the Pine Barrens of Burlington County offers something for everyone. Spend your summer days at Inawendiwin and enjoy the numerous activities offered such as climbing the rock wall, canoeing on the lake, shooting archery, zip lining through the woods, taking a hay ride, going geocaching, and hiking through the woods. For those looking to spend a weekend or more at Inawendiwin, there are plenty of options available. Troop and family camping are both great options for those who want to make Inawendiwin their summer home! Plus, if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind event, Inawendiwin can also host events. No matter how you choose to spend your time at Inawendiwin, you’ll be sure to have a blast! With so much to do and explore, this camp is the perfect place to make summer memories that will last a lifetime. So, come on over and let Inawendiwin be your summer adventure destination.