Nestled in the serene settings of Barnegat Township, New Jersey, Camp Amity Acres stands as a beacon of adventure and learning for young minds. Located conveniently near the Garden State Parkway, their camp provides easy access while being close enough to local landmarks like the Barnegat Lighthouse, offering a picturesque backdrop that enhances the camping experience.

Since its inception, Camp Amity Acres has been dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment where children can grow, learn, and play. Their camp’s rich history is built on a foundation of community and friendship, providing a safe haven where campers can explore nature and develop lifelong skills.

Their mission at Camp Amity Acres is to inspire young individuals by offering an enriching camping experience that promotes personal growth, teamwork, and respect for nature. They believe in helping each camper achieve their fullest potential through a blend of educational programs and recreational activities.

Camp Amity Acres is proud to be an inclusive camp that welcomes girls of all ages. They offer a variety of programs tailored to different age groups, ensuring that every camper receives the attention and care they deserve. Their dedicated staff and well-rounded programs make Camp Amity Acres the perfect place for your child to experience the joys of summer camp.

Programs Offered by Camp Amity Acres

At Camp Amity Acres, they offer a diverse range of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental stages of each camper. Their programs are structured around one-week, two-week, and full-summer sessions, allowing families to choose the duration that best fits their schedule and their child’s preferences.

1. Core Programs

Their core programs encompass a variety of activities aimed at promoting physical health, creative expression, and environmental stewardship. These include:

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, canoeing, and wildlife exploration.
Creative Arts: Painting, crafts, and theater.
Team Sports: Soccer, basketball, and volleyball.

2. Specialty Programs

For campers with specific interests, they offer specialty programs that delve deeper into particular areas:

Arts Immersion: A focus on advanced arts and crafts, music, and drama, culminating in a camper-led performance at the end of the session.
Science Explorers: Engaging in hands-on activities in biology, astronomy, and environmental science, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking.
Sports Clinics: Intensive skill-building sessions in various sports, coached by experts to improve technique and teamwork.

3. Leadership Development

For older campers, offer leadership development programs designed to build confidence and leadership skills through advanced camp activities and mentorship roles.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Amity Acres is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, rest, and free play, ensuring that each camper enjoys a full and enriching experience:

7:30 AM: Wake up and breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning assembly
9:30 AM: First activity block (e.g., arts and crafts, science lab)
11:00 AM: Second activity block (e.g., team sports, nature hikes)
12:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 PM: Quiet time/rest period
2:30 PM: Third activity block (specialty program or free choice)
4:00 PM: Snack and free play
5:00 PM: Evening activities (campfire, storytelling, group games)
6:30 PM: Dinner
7:30 PM: Evening assembly or guest speaker
8:30 PM: Return to cabins and lights out

Their commitment at Camp Amity Acres is to provide a fun, educational, and safe environment where every camper can thrive and make lasting memories. Whether your child is an aspiring artist, a budding scientist, or an enthusiastic athlete, their programs offer something for everyone.

Accommodations in Camp Amity Acres

Sleeping Arrangements

At Camp Amity Acres, they believe that a good night’s sleep is essential to a camper’s experience and development. Their accommodations are designed to ensure comfort, safety, and a sense of community among campers. They offer:

Cabins: Their primary accommodation, each cabin houses up to 10 campers with 2 counselors. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds and storage space for personal items, providing a cozy and communal living environment. They are strategically placed to foster a small community feel within each cabin group.

Dining Options

They understand the importance of nutritious and appealing meals for active campers. Their dining options are crafted to meet the needs of growing children and accommodate any dietary restrictions:

Meal Plans: They provide three balanced meals per day, plus snacks. Their menu varies daily and is designed to be kid-friendly and nutritionally balanced.
Dietary Accommodations: They cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and any allergies. Their kitchen staff is trained to handle special dietary requirements with the utmost care to ensure every camper enjoys safe and delicious meals.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Proper facilities are critical to ensure comfort and hygiene throughout the camp:

Bathrooms: Each cabin group has access to modern bathroom facilities located a short walk from their cabins. Bathrooms are equipped with flush toilets and sinks.
Showers: Separate shower facilities are available, featuring individual stalls to ensure privacy and comfort. Shower areas are divided by gender and are regularly cleaned and maintained by their staff to uphold hygiene standards.

At Camp Amity Acres, they aim to make every camper’s stay comfortable and enjoyable, providing a home away from home where they can focus on fun, learning, and making new friends. Their facilities and accommodations are designed to cater to the needs of all their campers, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camping experience.

Activities in Camp Amity Acres

At Camp Amity Acres, they pride themselves on providing a wide range of activities that cater to the interests and abilities of every camper. Their activities are designed not only for fun but also for fostering personal growth and skill development.

List of Activities Offered

Their diverse activity roster ensures that every day is full of new experiences and challenges:

Swimming: Supervised by certified lifeguards, their pool is a favorite spot for lessons and free swimming.
Hiking: Explore the natural beauty surrounding their camp through guided hikes along various trails.
Crafts: From pottery to friendship bracelets, crafts offer a creative outlet for all ages.
Sports: They offer a variety of sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and archery.
Nature Studies: Learn about local flora and fauna and participate in conservation projects.
Canoeing: Paddle on the lake with friends under the watchful eyes of their trained staff.
Climbing: Tackle their climbing wall, designed to suit different skill levels.
Performing Arts: Participate in drama workshops, dance, and music, culminating in performances for fellow campers.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Amity Acres is rich in traditions and hosts several special events that are highlighted for many campers:

Opening Bonfire: A welcome event where campers and staff introduce themselves and set the tone for the session.
Color Wars: A camp-wide team competition involving various sports and challenges.
Talent Show: Campers showcase their talents and enjoy performances from their peers.
End-of-Summer Carnival: A festive day to celebrate the end of camp with games, food, and fun.
Nature Night Walks: Summer camps explore the campgrounds by night to learn about nocturnal animals and enjoy the starry sky.

Skill Development Opportunities

Their programs are structured to provide not just fun, but also meaningful learning and skill-building opportunities:

Leadership Skills: Older campers can participate in leadership training programs, preparing them to take on roles as junior counselors or in peer leadership positions.
Environmental Awareness: Through hands-on activities, campers learn about sustainability and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Artistic Expression: Through various arts and crafts, performing arts, and creative projects, campers explore their creativity and develop new artistic skills.
Physical Fitness: Through regular sports and outdoor activities, campers improve their physical health and learn about teamwork and fair play.

Camp Amity Acres is dedicated to providing a fun, educational, and safe environment where campers can explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lifelong memories. Whether your child is looking to dive into new adventures or hone specific talents, their camp offers a comprehensive program to meet their needs and spark their enthusiasm.

The staff of Camp Amity Acres

At Camp Amity Acres, they understand that the quality of their staff directly impacts the camp experience for their campers. They prioritize maintaining a high caliber of staff members who are not only skilled but also deeply committed to the safety and development of each camper.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

They adhere to a strict staff-to-camper ratio to ensure that every child receives personalized attention and care:

Younger Campers (ages 6-10): They maintain a ratio of one staff member for every six campers.
Older Campers (ages 11-15): The ratio is one staff member for every eight campers.

This ratio helps ensure safety, supervision, and a supportive environment for all campers.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

Their hiring process is thorough to ensure that they select individuals who are not only qualified but also passionate about youth development and education:

Background Checks: All potential staff members undergo comprehensive background checks.
Education and Experience: They seek individuals with backgrounds in education, psychology, recreation, or related fields. Previous experience working with children is a must.
Interviews: Candidates go through multiple rounds of interviews to assess their suitability for the role and their ability to handle the responsibilities.

Training and Certifications

Once hired, their staff undergoes rigorous training to prepare them for the demands of camp life. This includes:

CPR and First Aid Certifications: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid.
Lifeguard Certification: For activities involving swimming or water sports, they ensure that certified lifeguards are on duty or that staff involved in these activities are lifeguard-certified.
Child Safety and Protection Training: Staff receive training in child protection policies, emergency response procedures, and the camp’s code of conduct.
Activity-Specific Training: Staff leading specific activities such as climbing, archery, or canoeing receive specialized training to ensure they can provide proper instruction and maintain safety.

Continuous Professional Development

They believe in continuous learning and improvement. Their staff participates in ongoing professional development sessions throughout the season to refine their skills and stay updated on best practices in child education and recreation.

At Camp Amity Acres, their commitment to a well-qualified, highly trained, and dedicated staff ensures that every camper enjoys a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience. they strive to create an environment where both campers and staff can grow, learn, and have fun together.

Safety and Health in Camp Amity Acres

The safety and health of their campers and staff are paramount at Camp Amity Acres. They have comprehensive protocols and facilities in place to ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and healthy camp experience.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Their commitment to safety is reflected in their thorough safety protocols, which include:

Regular Training: All staff undergo regular safety protocol training, including emergency response drills and scenario-based training exercises.
Activity Safety Standards: Each activity is conducted under strict safety guidelines, with appropriate gear and supervision to ensure every camper’s safety.
Weather Safety: They monitor weather conditions closely and have protocols for severe weather, including safe locations for shelter and procedures for quick evacuation if necessary.
Nighttime Security: The camp maintains a curfew and nighttime supervision protocol, with staff members patrolling and monitoring the campgrounds to ensure all campers are safe and secure.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

To handle health needs promptly and effectively, Camp Amity Acres is equipped with:

Health Center: Their on-site health center is staffed by a licensed nurse available 24/7. The center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is stocked with essential medications and first aid supplies.
Partnerships with Local Healthcare Providers: For more serious medical issues, they have established partnerships with local hospitals and clinics to ensure quick and comprehensive care.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Their emergency policies are designed to handle situations swiftly and efficiently:

Emergency Contact System: They have a robust system in place to quickly contact all on-site staff and emergency services if needed, as well as to inform parents and guardians about any significant incidents.
Evacuation Plan: The camp has a clear evacuation plan tailored to different types of emergencies, including natural disasters and other urgent threats. Evacuation routes and assembly points are well-marked and regularly reviewed with staff and campers.
Medical Emergencies: In the event of a medical emergency, their on-site health staff provide immediate care, and if necessary, the camper is transported to a local medical facility according to the severity of the situation.
Continuous Review and Improvement: Safety and emergency plans are continuously reviewed and updated based on new information, evolving best practices, and feedback from staff training exercises.

At Camp Amity Acres, they are dedicated to maintaining a safe environment where parents can feel confident in the well-being of their children, and where campers can enjoy their activities worry-free. Their proactive approach to safety and health is fundamental to their mission and to the positive experiences of everyone at the camp.

Cost and Registration in Camp Amity Acres

They strive to make their camp experience accessible and affordable while maintaining the highest quality of programs and facilities. Here are the details regarding the cost, registration process, and financial assistance options.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance at Camp Amity Acres varies depending on the session length and the specific program chosen. Generally, fees include:

All Activities: Access to all scheduled activities and specialty programs.
Meals and Snacks: Three meals per day plus healthy snacks.
Accommodation: Lodging in one of their comfortable cabins.
Camp Gear: A camp t-shirt and other necessary gear for activities.
Transportation: On-site transportation for camp-related activities.

Registration Process and Deadlines

To register for Camp Amity Acres:

Visit their Website: All registration can be completed online through their secure portal.
Select Session and Program: Choose the session dates and the specific program your child wishes to attend.
Fill Out Required Forms: Complete all necessary medical and consent forms as part of the registration process.
Submit Payment: Payment can be completed online at the time of registration.

Deadlines: It is advisable to register early as spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Understanding that flexibility is important to their families, they offer several financial accommodations:

Payment Plans: Available upon request, allowing families to break down the total cost into several installments.
Refunds: Full refunds are available up to one month before the session start date. A 50% refund is available up to two weeks before the session start date.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made less than two weeks before the start of the session will not be eligible for a refund, except in cases of medical emergencies, for which documentation is required.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

They believe every child should have the opportunity to enjoy camp. Financial aid and scholarships are available based on need and merit:

Scholarships: Offered to families who demonstrate significant financial need or to campers who excel in certain areas (e.g., leadership, arts, sports).
Financial Aid: Applications for financial aid can be submitted. These are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and can cover a portion of the camp fees.

At Camp Amity Acres, they are committed to making their camp experience accessible to as many children as possible.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Amity Acres

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their families. To ensure that everyone is ready for the upcoming adventure, they provide a comprehensive guide on what to pack, their camp rules and policies, and tips for those new to the camp experience.

Packing List

To help their campers have a comfortable and enjoyable stay, they recommend packing the following items:

Clothing: Enough comfortable clothing for the session, including t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and sweatshirts. Include a rain jacket and swimwear.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals, and waterproof boots.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Other Essentials: Water bottle, flashlight, hats, and sunglasses.
Optional Items: Books, writing materials, and small games.

Please label all personal items with your child’s name.

Rules and Policies

To maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all campers, they adhere to the following rules and policies:

Technology Use: To encourage engagement and connection, personal electronic devices (phones, tablets, etc.) are not permitted during camp activities. They may be used during designated times in the cabins.
Visitation: For the safety and security of their campers, visitation is limited to designated days and times which will be communicated in advance.
Behavioral Expectations: Respectful and cooperative behavior is expected at all times. Bullying or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For those new to the camp experience, here are some tips to ensure a smooth transition:

Communication: Discuss what camp will be like focusing on the exciting activities and new friendships.
Practice Sleepovers: If your child hasn’t spent much time away from home, try a few practice sleepovers at friends’ or relatives’ homes.
Packing Together: Involve your child in the packing process, which can help them feel prepared and excited about their upcoming adventure.
Setting Goals: Encourage your child to set personal goals for camp, like trying a new activity or making new friends.

For Parents

Stay Informed: Make sure to read all materials provided by the camp for important information and updates.
Open Lines of Communication: Feel free to contact the camp with any questions or concerns. They’re here to help!
Trust the Process: Camp is a wonderful opportunity for growth. Trust that their experienced staff will take great care of your child.

Preparing properly can make the transition to camp life smoother and more enjoyable for both campers and parents. At Camp Amity Acres, they’re dedicated to ensuring that your child’s camp experience is as enriching and fun as possible.

Camp Amity Acres offers a unique and enriching summer experience for children of all ages. Nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Barnegat Township, New Jersey, their camp provides a perfect blend of adventure, creativity, and friendship. With a wide array of activities, from swimming and hiking to crafts and science explorations, they cater to a variety of interests and foster an environment where every camper can thrive.

Their commitment to safety, health, and high-quality programming is evident in their meticulous attention to staff training, camper supervision, and facility maintenance. They believe in the power of camp to transform lives, build lifelong skills, and create cherished memories. At Camp Amity Acres, they’re not just a camp; they’re a community where children come together to grow, play, and learn in a nurturing and supportive environment.