By Sarah Fertsch
Staff Writer
Nothing beats spending your summer days learning a new skill or playing outside with your friends. We all remember the good old days as children when summers were for friends, marshmallows and petting zoos. As parents today, we have the opportunity to shape our children’s lives by choosing a quality summer camp. So, what camps should you consider? Here are 10 camps in South Jersey that are perfect for your child:
Egg Harbor Township
PAL Summer Camp
This camp includes laser tag, waterslides, volleyball, arts and crafts, bounce houses and plenty of athletic games. The camp starts June 30th and runs between 7:30 am and 5:30pm, certain to tire out your little zoomer. The camp accepts children between the ages of 5 and 16. If traditional summer camp seems a little too broad, check out PAL’s sports camp or STEM camp. You can sign your child up for one week or ten weeks, and prices vary based on your selection. Check them out here: https://www.ehtpal.org/summer-camp.
Downbeach Hockey Camp
If your little one loves hockey, this camp is perfect. Players will hit the ice between 9am and 4pm everyday and learn skills, as well as receive meals and a jersey. The camp will keep your kid cool on the ice and on the beach during the group’s recreation days. The camp is split between junior and senior players who work with coaches in small groups. The camp runs for two weeks in August. For more information, check it out here: https://www.downbeachhockey.com/2021-summer-camp.html
Camp Blue Star
This day camp is perfect for kids. Weekly themes like Harry Potter and Pirates keep campers engaged in activities such as camp olympics, competitive video games, rock climbing and swimming. Camp generally runs between late June and early August between 7am and 4pm. For more information on this camp (located at Hess School in Mays Landing), visit this website: https://campbluestar.org/.
Summer Art Camps at
Ocean City Arts Center
These camps run at two different times throughout the day (9am to noon, 12:30 to 3:30) and for the following age groups: 3-5, 6-9, 10-13. Families can pick between a variety of subjects, such as beach and surf art, disney characters, bracelet weaving, dancing through the decades, and mosaics. Each camp is a week long and on varying dates. If you are raising a little artist, check out this camp here: https://www.oceancityartscenter.org/summer-art-camps-2022-2023.
Camp YMCA at Jordan
Road School in Somers Point
This camp caters to kids aged 3-13 who need something exciting to do everyday. The camp includes breakfast and lunch and activities such as field games, water battles, reading, STEM, arts and crafts and health education. The camp is divided by age group so everything is developmentally appropriate. Each week has a different theme, such as Camp Y Got Talent, Water Festival, and Animal Planet. To sign your child up, visit this website: https://vinelandymca.org/library/documents/Somers_Point-_Sequoia_Registration_Packet__2.25.22_.pdf.
Everest Gymnastics
Summer Camp
Does your little one love to tumble? He/she will love this camp! All camps are geared toward 4-14 year-olds, and parents can sign them up for half-days or full-days. Depending on their age, your child will balance on a beam, learn a forward roll, jump into a sponge pit and fly high on a trampoline. Additional siblings will be charged at a discounted rate. For pricing and other details, check the camp out here: http://www.everestgymnastics.com/camp.html.
At The Top Basketball Camp
Located right over the Margate bridge, campers will learn dribbling skills, shooting strategies, offensive and defensive play and even some tricks. Camps are co-ed and available for ballers aged 6 to 15. Camp runs from Monday to Friday from 9am to noon. Register your player here: https://atthetopcamps.com/camp-information/.
Cougar Camp at Atlantic
Christian School
Starting on June 27 and ending August 26th, kids between first and seventh grade will have a blast working in the garden, playing outdoor games, drawing and painting, and learning about the Bible. Campers take field trips to destinations such as the AC Aquarium, Birch Grove Park, and the Funny Farm Animal Rescue. An early education camp for toddlers is also available. If you are interested, read more here: https://acseht.org/summer-programs/.
Baycats Outdoor Recreation
Camp in Ocean City
Learn the art of sailing, try some adventure art, and play on the water at this specialized camp for kids between the ages 8 to 13 (or 14 for sailing lessons). Expect to paddleboard, kayak and learn about the amazing waters of South Jersey. Camps and lessons run in the morning for approximately three hours each day for one week. Make sure your child feels comfortable around the back bay. Read more here: https://www.baycats.com/shop-1.
Jersey Shore NFL
Flag Summer Camp
Kids between the ages 5 and 14 can charge up the field as they learn the rules behind flag football and the skills to succeed. Boys and girls are welcome at this camp, which runs Monday through Thursday from 9am to noon. Camps are located in Sea Isle City on June 27-30 and Stone Harbor on July 18-21. The competitive yet warm atmosphere will make your child feel like a professional athlete. For more information, check it out here: https://www.americanfootballunited.com/camp.
Sarah Fertsch is a writer and artist who has recently moved back to South Jersey. She loves satire, a good cup of coffee, and exploring new places.
