Mercer Camps 2026 by Community News Service

C A M P S MERCER

“THIS SUMMER IS GOING TO BE GREAT”

Summer CampS 2026 Area camps offer a wide variety of summer options

As the school year winds down and calendars begin to open, families across Mercer County turn their attention to one of summer’s biggest planning decisions: how children will spend their time once classes end.

With dozens of options available locally, this month’s Summer Camps section showcases a wide range of programs offered throughout the region.

The guide helps families compare camp types, schedules and focus areas, making it easier to match a child’s interests with summer availability.

For many households, summer camps strike a balance between structure and freedom, learning and play, supervision and independence.

What was once a single type of day camp experience has evolved into a variety of programs tailored to different interests, ages and schedules. Today’s camps reflect shifting educational priorities and a recognition that children thrive when they can explore what excites them.

Traditional day camps remain a popular choice. These programs typically offer full- or half-day schedules built around outdoor activities, organized games, arts and crafts, and social interaction.

Swimming, team sports and creative projects are often part of the daily routine, giving campers a mix of activity and downtime. For younger children especially, traditional camps provide consistency and opportunities to build social skills in a relaxed setting.

Many traditional camps incorporate themed weeks or rotating activities. One week might focus on outdoor adventure, another on creative arts and another on group challenges.

such as drawing and painting, or on performing arts like theater, music and dance. Campers might rehearse a play, learn new techniques or explore storytelling and creative writing. Many culminate in a showcase or performance for family and friends.

Sports and recreation camps continue to attract families seeking active programs. Some focus on specific sports such as soccer, basketball or swimming, while others introduce campers to a variety of games and fitness activities. Emphasis is often placed on teamwork, sportsmanship and skill development rather than competition alone, creating an inclusive environment for children of all experience levels.

Nature and environmental camps appeal to children who enjoy time outdoors. Taking advantage of local parks and open spaces, these programs may include hiking, wildlife observation, gardening and environmental science projects.

Campers explore ecosystems, learn about conservation and participate in handson activities that promote stewardship while building independence and resilience.

Academic enrichment camps represent another growing category, particularly for older students. These programs may strengthen skills in reading, writing or math, help students prepare for new grade levels or offer advanced topics for those seeking additional challenges. Smaller group settings and interactive projects help keep students engaged.

This approach offers flexibility and allows children to try new experiences without committing to a single focus for the entire summer.

STEM and STEAM camps have grown increasingly popular. These programs emphasize science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics through handson, project-based learning.

Specialty camps focus on niche interests such as cooking, maker workshops or leadership development. Multi-interest camps combine elements from several categories, offering rotating schedules that might include art in the morning and sports in the afternoon. Additional options may include overnight programs, adaptive camps, and faith-based offerings.

With so many choices, selecting the right camp often involves balancing a child’s interests with practical considerations such as age range, schedule, session length and cost. Early planning is important, as many programs fill quickly.

Rather than focusing on classroom-style instruction, campers might build simple machines, experiment with chemistry, design structures, or explore coding. Activities encourage collaboration and problemsolving while keeping learning engaging.

Arts and creative camps provide enrichment through expression and performance. Programs may focus on visual arts

Whether families are seeking enrichment, adventure or simply a fun place for children to spend their days, Mercer County area camps reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.

For a guide to camps for all ages and interests in Mercer County and beyond, visit mercercamps.com.

Summer CampS 2026

YMCA Camp Mason

Why Camp Matters

For more than 125 years, YMCA Camp Mason has welcomed campers to be a part of our caring, inclusive community. We strive for excellence, relevance and innovation and believe that every child deserves the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. Our camp focuses on facilitating a break from technology, encouraging engagement with the natural world, and participating in an assortment of activities aimed at personal development. Our proven programs and caring counselors engage and encourage young people and deliver meaningful and memorable experiences year after year.

We could go on and on about the benefits of YMCA Camp Mason, but our campers say it best!

“I made so many new friends and now I know I can do anything!” – 14 year old girl

Our schedule allows campers to try new things and improve their skills while developing confidence, gaining a sense of independence and having fun! Campers enjoy a varied daily schedule that includes choice activities, group games, swimming and a period of recreation time. The friendships gained from their time at camp last a lifetime.

“I come to camp for all of the great activities.” –13 year old boy

From canoeing to ziplining through the trees to performing at the talent show, there is something for everyone! We offer archery, swimming in our heated pool, boating, arts and crafts, drama, music, a climbing tower, zipline, dance, movie making, basketball and other court sports, a skate boarding park, mountain biking, hiking, aerial silks, yoga and countless other activities. Campers can even sign up for FREE off-site trips to explore our fantastic natural surroundings in the Delaware River Gap National Recreation Area.

“Camp Mason is my home away from home!” –10 year old boy

Campers stay in comfortable cabins with each cabin group determined by age and with two counselors who live alongside the campers, ensuring there is always a caring, watchful eye on your child. Our counselors, from around the US and the world, are professional, trained mentors. We teach and live our values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, integrity and inclusion throughout the camp day.

“At camp I can be myself.” – 11 year old girl

98 percent of our camper parents report that their child felt a sense of belonging at camp, and 93%

of parents indicated that their child’s self-image improved as a result of attending YMCA Camp Mason.

Don’t miss out and join us at YMCA Camp Mason for the BEST SUMMER EVER! If you are ready for your child to out down their phone, thrive, build a positive sense of self, grow in empathy and caring and experience a sense of discovery, then please take a moment to look at our website at www.campmason.org, call 908-362-8217 or email shani@campmason.org for more information or to register.

Summer CampS 2026

Hamilton Area YMCA

More Than a Summer: The Lasting Benefits of Sawmill Summer Camp

At the Hamilton Area YMCA Sawmill Summer Camp, the fun is evident. The pool splashes, the fields buzz with games, and laughter echoes across 50 acres of outdoor adventure. But what makes camp truly powerful isn’t just what children do; it’s who they become.

Camp is a place where kids try new things without the pressure of grades, teams, or comparison. They attempt the climbing wall. They test the deep end. They speak up during group activities. Each small win builds confidence. And that confidence doesn’t stay at camp; it shows up in classrooms, on sports fields, and in everyday life.

Camp gently stretches campers’ comfort zones. Whether organiz-

ing their backpacks, navigating new friendships, or participating in leadership activities as Trailblazers or CITs, campers learn responsibility in ways that feel natural and empowering. With trained staff, low camper-tostaff ratios, and a supportive environment grounded in the YMCA’s core

values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, children are encouraged to grow, knowing they are safe and supported.

Camp fosters authentic connections. Without screens or social media, kids build real friendships through shared experiences such as

team challenges, group games, theme weeks, and creative projects.

They learn how to work as part of a team, resolve conflicts, include others, and lead with empathy. These socialemotional skills are some of the most valuable long-term benefits of camp.

From daily swim time in Mercer County’s largest pool to sports, field games, STEM, and specialty programs, campers are busy and on the move all day long. They build strength, coordination, and endurance while associating physical activity with fun.

Swim lessons, taught by certified instructors, provide life-saving skills that benefit children for years to come.

Camp gives children permission to imagine boldly. Arts and crafts, science experiments, performing arts, specialty sports camps, and themed weeks encourage campers to explore new interests and discover hidden talents. In a space free from fear of failure, creativity thrives.

As campers grow, so do their opportunities. Older campers step into

Summer CampS 2026

leadership roles, participate in community projects, travel on field trips, and even train alongside counselors in our CIT program. They learn what it means to guide others, take initiative, and make a positive impact. Skills that shape future leaders.

For over 20 years, the Hamilton Area YMCA Sawmill Summer Camp has created spaces where every child belongs. Financial assistance is available because we believe camp should be accessible to all families.

When parents drop their children

off at Sawmill, they’re not merely sending them to camp. They’re offering them confidence, independence, enduring friendships, and unforgettable memories, all while fostering healthy habits and leadership skills.

The sunshine fades at the end of August, but the growth lasts all year.

This summer, give your child more than something to do. Give them something that shapes who they become. To learn more, visit www. hamiltonymca.org/summer-camp/ sawmill-branch-2026

Ewing Recreation Department

Camps & Pools Set for 2026

The Ewing Community Pools System offers two pools for seasonal members and daily patrons. The pools have shaded areas, pool furniture, changing rooms, and shower facilities, and ESCC has a snack bar. The Hollowbrook Pool located at 320 Hollowbrook Drive is scheduled to open on weekends & Memorial Day on Saturday, May 23. Operating hours are, Saturdays, 5 to 8 p.m., Sunday – Friday noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays can be rented for private events, email Raquel at rince@ewingnj.org to schedule an event. The ESCC pool will open on weekends & Memorial Day starting Saturday, May 23, and both pools will open full time starting on Monday, June 17, from noon to 8 p.m. Swim lessons start with evaluations on Saturday, June 13, and space is limited. Senior Swim and Senior Water Aerobics are offered and will start on Monday, June 22; seniors needing assistance registering can register at the Senior Office for

these programs. Online registration for seasonal memberships, swim lessons, and Senior Swim/Water Aerobics is required at ewingnj.org/ recregistration. Labor Day is the last day that the pools will be open.

The Ewing Recreation Summer Camp will run from June 29 – August 22 for grades 1 – 6 and is held on the grounds of the Fisher School and Ewing Sr. & Community Center (ESCC). The hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday. Early hours are from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and late hours are from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Online registration is required at ewingnj.org/recregistration.

Teen Travel will be for grades 7 –9 and will run from July 1 – August 16. The camp will travel four days a week and stay in Ewing the other day. Campers can participate in day camp on weeks Teen Travel is not being held. Camp also offers a Counselor in Training program for children entering grades 9 and 10.

For more information on these programs call the Ewing Recreation Office at 609-883-1776 x6203. You can also go to ewingnj.org, Community Affairs.

MULTI-SPORT CAMP

July

Summer CampS 2026

RSM Princeton

Advance Your

Child’s

Math Learning This Summer!

Summer math classes at RSM Princeton are now enrolling!

RSM is an award winning, afterschool math enrichment program trusted by parents for over 25 years across 80+ locations in North America. Our unique approach consists of a continuous K-12 curriculum, taught by expert teachers, in a classroom environment of peers who study together year after year.

Featured in NPR and The Atlantic as a key player in the “Math Revolution” and ranked one of the best schools in the world by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, RSM uses the rigorous study of mathematics to develop our students’ math fluency, intellect, and character, empowering them for life.

Why Choose RSM’s Summer Program?

A Program for All Students: RSM offers summer classes for K-12 students looking to strengthen their grasp of the fundamentals, prepare for the upcoming school year, or experience additional challenges.

Prevent Summer Learning Loss: RSM’s program ensures that students retain and strengthen their math knowledge, keeping them on track when they return to school in the fall.

Talented Faculty: All of our teachers have a background in mathematics or a related field and a deep passion for the subject.

Classroom Environment: Students are instructed by an expert teacher leading an interactive lesson in an in-person class environment.

Summer Program Details: The 6-Week Summer Program runs June

22 – July 30, in-person or online, on Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday. The 3-Week Summer Program runs in person August 3 – 20 Monday through Thursday with no homework.

Summer Math Competition Preparation Classes: Math Competition Preparation classes are designed for students interested in advanced mathematical topics and preparing for elite state, national, and international competitions (Math Kangaroo, MOEMS, AMC 8, 10, 12, USA(J)MO, and more). The program focuses on teaching students how to approach competition-level problems. These classes are available for grades 2 through 10 as 6 or 3-week courses meeting twice per week.

STEAM Program at RSM Edison: We are thrilled to introduce our brand-new Summer STEAM Program, designed for students entering grades K-5. This one-week program is designed to spark curiosity in young learners with hands-on activities in Math, Science, Engineering, Chess, Coding, Dance and Art. There is a new session each week and students can sign up for multiple sessions. There are 5 4-hour classes per week grouped by grade for best learning experience and open to all ability levels.

Summer Chess Classes: Chess makes its debut at RSM Princeton this summer! Not only is it a lot of fun, but it is also a great tool to improve your child’s cognitive development, decision-making, creative, and critical thinking skills. The in-person program meets Monday through Thursday for 3 weeks.

Get Started Today! Visit www. mathschool.com to view the summer schedule for RSM Princeton and other RSM NJ locations and enroll your child today.

Body Language Dance Center

The Stage Is Set for Movement

This summer, the stage is set for movement, music, and memorable classes at Body Language Dance Center, where creativity and community come together under the direction of Travis Breen and Eric McCotter.

Located at 5 Scotch Road in the heart of Ewing, the studio continues to be a vibrant hub for dancers ages 2.5–18. The Summer Dance program features an exciting lineup of classes designed to inspire both new and returning students. From high-energy hip-hop and acro to classical ballet and jazz, each class blends strong technical training with expressive artistry in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Breen and McCotter share a deep passion for dance education and performance excellence. Their leadership emphasizes not only precision and skill development, but also confidence, teamwork, and personal growth. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves, explore new styles, and discover their unique voice through movement.

In addition to its recreational classes, Body Language Dance Center is proud to be home to an award-winning competition team that consistently

earns top honors at regional and national events. The team exemplifies dedication, artistry, and sportsmanship, providing dancers with opportunities to grow, perform, and represent the studio with pride.

Classes begin in July, giving students the perfect opportunity to stay active, refine their technique, beginner level through advance, and make the most of their summer break.

Families throughout the community praise Body Language Dance Center for its welcoming atmosphere and dedicated staff. Many students return year after year, drawn by the studio’s commitment to high-quality instruction and positive mentorship.

As the summer season unfolds, Body Language Dance Center remains a place where discipline meets joy — and where every dancer, from beginner to advanced, is empowered to move with confidence and purpose.

Registration for Summer Dance is now open. For more information about class schedules and enrollment, visit BodyLanguageDanceCenter.com or call 609-882-3222.

$375/Week

Summer CampS 2026

D1 Training

Newtown

Building Stronger Athletes and

a Stron-

ger Community

Families in the Mercer and Bucks areas seeking structured, coach-led fitness, and athletic development now have a dedicated destination at D1 Training, located just outside Newtown in Langhorne, PA. The facility delivers a sports science-backed approach designed to help youth and adults improve performance, build strength, and develop long-term healthy habits.

Unlike traditional gyms, D1 Training follows a structured model rooted in athletic principles. Each workout is organized around five tenets: dynamic warm-up, performance, strength, core and conditioning, and cool down. This system focuses on training the whole body while supporting safe, consistent progress for participants at every level.

The Newtown location is owned by Matt and Tracy Kueny, whose professional backgrounds combine athletic coaching and operational leadership. Matt brings more than 20 years of experience as a Junior Olympic softball coach, guiding high school athletes to refine their skills and pursue higher levels of competition. Tracy has spent 14 years at Princeton University as Senior Financial Manager in the Office of the Dean of the College, overseeing initiatives at one of the nation’s most respected institutions.

Leaping Dog & Sleeping Cat Art Studios

Never a Dull Moment at Art Camp!

Leaping Dog Art Studios and its new second location, Sleeping Cat Art Studios, is a communitycentered art studio providing art classes, art camps, private art lessons, and art parties for both kids and adults in drawing, painting, pottery, and more in downtown Bordentown City.

Unlike a traditional art school with grades and critiques, Leaping Dog & Sleeping Cat offers a more relaxed educational atmosphere, free of judgment, and strives to meet students where they are at in their creative journey and help them to grow as an artist. Their kids Summer Camp program in particular has become a popular choice for local parents since they first opened back in 2014 and are known to fill up fast. What makes their camps special?

For one thing, they always keep camp numbers small (under 15) to make sure that each camper gets individualized attention by caring and talented instructors. Secondly, camp at Leaping Dog, and now Sleeping Cat is never dull! With a full load of artful themes offered throughout the entire ten weeks of summer, instructors and campers alike

For the Kuenys, opening the facility represents both a business venture and a personal mission. As parents of two former college athletes, they understand the preparation and discipline required to compete beyond high school. That perspective shapes how they engage with members and families who walk through the doors.

Programming is organized by age and stage of development, with Rookie training for ages 7 to 11, Developmental for ages 12 to 14, Prep for ages 15 to 18, and adult options. In addition to group sessions, members can choose semi private or one on one coaching. This structure allows individualized attention within a motivating team environment.

Beyond daily training, the owners aim to make an impact in the broader community. They have expressed interest in creating a grant program to support underserved youth athletes who may not otherwise access this type of training. The goal is to expand opportunity while reinforcing the life skills that sports can teach.

D1 Training was founded in 2001 by former NFL player Will Bartholomew and has grown into a national brand with more than 150 locations and many additional facilities in development. Its 5 Star Training System emphasizes total body development and measurable progress rather than short term trends.

For local residents, the facility offers a place where athletes, students, and adults can train with intention and accountability. Coaches work closely with members to set goals, track improvement, and

are always excited to see what new things they get to do and create each day and each week. For example, one day we may be learning to draw faces and another day, we’re making magic wands or potions and creating fantastical creatures out of clay or with paper mache.

While all ceramics or clay-centered camps will be offered at the Leaping Dog location (including “Foodie Clay Camp” and “Pottery Wheel” camps), camps at Sleeping Cat will focus on two-dimensional and performance art related themes including “We Love Music & Theater Art” Camp, Fashion Design Camp, Cartooning and Digital Art Camp and

celebrate milestones. The environment encourages consistency, effort, and confidence, qualities that extend beyond workouts into school, careers, and daily life. As Newtown area families continue to prioritize health and activity, D1 Training Newtown stands as a resource committed to helping individuals reach their potential and sustain active lifestyles for years to come.

With expert coaching, thoughtful programming, and a community minded approach, the facility positions itself as a long term partner in personal fitness, athletic development, and overall wellness for residents throughout the region. Looking ahead.

D1 Training | Newtown, 864 Town Center Drive, Langhorne, Pennsylvania. d1training.com/facility/ newtown.

the eco-friendly, play-based “Cardboard Creations” camp, which are new themes this year.

Summer Camps at Leaping Dog and Sleeping Cat complement each other as “two studios, one creative home,” says director Jennifer Szeto. “Both spaces feel as part of the same studio. Our beloved instructors work at both locations and we are excited to welcome some new, enthusiastic instructors on staff this coming summer for 2026. Our studio is a safe space, a positive space and each summer we cannot wait to meet new campers and welcome back returning campers as one does family. The fact is, many of our campers have been coming and often they come for multiple weeks each summer. We have become like a second home, a creative home for these students, a place where they feel safe in, can meet new friends, try new things, learn new skills, gain confidence and feel inspired.”

Online Registration is now open.

For more info and to find the latest schedule of classes and events, including “Arty Pizza Nights”, “Bookish Art Club” meetings, “Coffee and Crafternoons” and monthly musical performances like Open Mic Nights and Jazz Jams, follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/leapingdogartstudios or visit their website at www.leapingdogartstudios.com.

Matt and Tracy Kueny with A J Brown from the Eagles.

Summer CampS 2026

Tomato Patch at Kelsey Theatre

Now Registering for Its 53rd Year!

Kelsey Theatre at Mercer is now registering for Tomato Patch!

Now in its 53rd year, Tomato Patch is the longest-running, most successful multi-disciplinary Visual and Performing Arts program in Central New Jersey. Featuring classes for ages 10-18, Tomato Patch is taught by a talented staff of professional artists. Check us out online at www.tomatopatch.org.

Here are some fun things about Tomato Patch:

First: It is truly multi-disciplinary. You choose a major in the morning in either theater, dance, vocal music or visual art and have classes in your

Centercourt

major, then after lunch you have four electives — and you can mix and match between theater, dance, music,

visual arts and video.

Second: It culminates in a Festival of The Arts Performance and Gallery

More Than Sports: Summer Fun with a Purpose in Lawrence

Centercourt Club & Sports has become a trusted hub for youth sports in the community, offering year-round training, development programs, and structured leagues for multiple sports across the region. As summer approaches, the facility is inviting parents to take advantage of flexible camp options designed to fit every child’s interests and goals.

The message this season is simple: design summer your way.

Conveniently located in Lawrence Township, Centercourt offers a range of camp experiences that allow families to choose the structure, sport focus, and environment that best fits their child.

For families seeking a well-rounded, highenergy experience, Centercourt’s Multi-Sport Summer Camp delivers action-packed days built around movement, teamwork, and fun. Campers rotate through structured sports sessions including soccer, flag football, wiffle ball and field games, along with team challenges and themed programming. The focus goes beyond simply staying active — it is about building confidence, encouraging sportsmanship, and creating friendships that last well beyond the summer months.

For younger campers, Centercourt’s Pre-K Camp provides a supportive and engaging introduction to group activities. Designed specifically for early learners, the program

emphasizes age-appropriate skill development, cooperative play, and structured fun in a safe and nurturing environment. It is an ideal first camp experience for families looking to build routine and social confidence before the school year begins. Baseball players have a unique opportunity this summer with Michael Rogers Baseball Camp. Known for his player development expertise and ability to connect with young athletes, Rogers brings a high-level instructional approach. Campers receive focused skill instruction, position-specific training, and game-based learning designed to elevate performance while maintaining

A production of ‘Beetlejuice’ from a previous year’s Tomato Patch Workshop.

Exhibit.

Third: You will make lasting friendships — something we have seen for many years, as you find friends that have a lot in common with you.

Tomato Patch Workshops this summer has 2 sessions:

Session 1 for ages 13-18, June 29July 24 (four weeks).

Session 2 for ages 10-12, July 27-August 13 (3 weeks).

We also feature a Master Class in Acting which is full-day 3 week theater intensive summer program for ages 13-19. July 27-August 14.

The Master Class in Theater culminates in A Night of One Acts! Call 609-570-3566 for more information.

the excitement that makes summer baseball memorable. Baseball camp takes place at Fenton Lane Park in Chesterfield.

Adding to the lineup this year, there are four brand new indoor Volleyball courts, expanding to trainings, league, and Volleyball Camp. As volleyball continues to grow in popularity across the region, Centercourt is proud to introduce enhanced training opportunities and gameplay. Athletes will work on fundamentals, strategy, and team play under experienced coaches, making it an exciting new option for both beginners and experienced players. The best of both worlds, Multi-Sport + Volleyball Combo Camp includes a half day of Volleyball and a half day of Multi-Sport activities.

Additional sport-specific camps, including Softball, Football, and Lacrosse, will be announced soon, giving even more athletes the opportunity to train and compete in a structured summer environment.

What connects all of these programs is Centercourt’s commitment to coach-led instruction and intentional programming. Each session is supervised and thoughtfully designed to promote both athletic development and character growth.

Families are encouraged to explore the full lineup of camp options and secure their spots early, as sessions typically fill quickly. To see all Centercourt Lawrence camp offerings and register, visit www.cntrcrt.com/lawrence-camps.

At Centercourt Lawrence, summer is not one-size-fits-all — it is built around flexibility, development, and community, giving every family the opportunity to design a season that works for them.

Summer CampS 2026

Liberty Lake Day Camp

Marking 25 Years With Expanded Leadership, Safety Initiatives, and Growing Regional Demand

As Liberty Lake Day Camp enters its 25th year serving families across New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the well-known Bordentown program is marking the milestone with strengthened leadership, expanded safety initiatives, and continued emphasis on inclusion and youth development.

Founded in 2001 by educator and former American Camp Association (ACA) NY/NJ President Andy Pritikin, Liberty Lake Day Camp has grown into one of the region’s most established summer day camps. These 60 shady acres are the summer home base to thousands of campers each season, offering a mix of outdoor recreation, instructional activities, and values-based programming.

“This anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate but also to continue raising the bar,” Pritikin said. “The needs of children and families evolve, and we want to grow with them.” If you are looking for more details about “life in the day of a camper”, on December 24, 2025 — Liberty Lake Day Camp announced the release of its 2025 Video Yearbook, highlighting a summer filled with confidence-building programs, meaningful friendships, and personal growth…great video!

Leadership Expansion: A Second Generation Joins the Team. The camp’s 25th anniversary also marks the return of Justin Pritikin, Andy’s

son, to the leadership team. Justin, a former Liberty Lake camper, brings experience in youth programming, staff training, and leadership development.

His professional background includes roles in corporate leadership at lululemon and program oversight at Everwood Day Camp, Liberty Lake’s sister camp in Massachusetts. Justin is also known for his TED Talk on resilience, inspired by his seven-year battle with childhood leukemia. His full biography appears here

“Coming back to Liberty Lake feels like the right moment,” Justin said. “This place shaped me as a child, and I’m honored to contribute to its next chapter.”

Safety Enhancements Remain Central to Camp Operations.

Safety continues to be one of the most scrutinized aspects of youth programs, and Liberty Lake Day Camp has worked to maintain what many parents describe as a “proactive and visible” safety culture.

The camp regularly exceeds New Jersey’s staffing and training requirements, particularly in its waterfront program, where additional certified lifeguards and layered supervision are standard practices. Staff complete multiple rounds of emergency-preparedness training, and daily risk assessments are part of the camp’s routine. A detailed summary of Liberty Lake Day Camp’s safety procedures is available.

“Our philosophy is that safety should be built into every aspect of operation,” Andy Pritikin said. “It’s not a document — it’s a culture.”

Growing Focus on Inclusion and Social-Emotional Support. Alongside traditional activities, Liberty Lake Day Camp has expanded its inclusion and social-emotional programming. Counselors receive training in supporting neurodiverse campers, managing peer interactions, and fostering communication skills. The camp’s long-standing 5-Star Points — Independence, Integrity,

Inspiration, Teamwork, and Friendship — remain at the center of its youthdevelopment model.

“Parents today are looking for camps where their children feel welcome and understood,” Justin said. “We want every child to feel successful here.”

Regional Interest From Both NJ and PA Families. Liberty Lake Day Camp draws campers from Burlington, Mercer, Camden, and Gloucester counties, as well as from across the river in Philadelphia and Bucks County. Many families cite the camp’s leadership, staff stability, and safety practices as deciding factors in enrollment.

Families new to the camp often look for information on schedules, meals, transportation, and program structure.

A resource page answering these questions is available at: libertylakedaycamp.com/liberty-lakeday-camp-top-questions-guides/ Looking Ahead: Planning for the Next 25 Years. As Liberty Lake Day Camp celebrates their 25th anniversary, this milestone also marks its next chapter. Andy and Justin say their focus remains consistent: delivering high-quality programming that helps children grow socially, emotionally, and physically.

“The elements that make camp meaningful have stayed the same,” Andy said. “Children need outdoor experiences, friendship, and opportunities that help them step outside their comfort zone. We’re committed to providing that for the next generation.”

Enrollment for the upcoming summer is currently open, with certain age groups expected to reach capacity based on prior years’ trends. Visit www.libertylakedaycamp.com.