Camp Bernie means a summer of friendship, growth, and unforgettable fun!
The day camp program at Camp Bernie offers a fun-filled, active summer experience for children entering grades Pre-K to 8! Each week, campers immerse themselves in adventures across our 247-acre property: swimming, climbing, canoeing, creating arts and crafts, and exploring nature on hikes.
Camp Bernie is more than just activities; it’s a place to try new things, make lasting friendships, and discover new passions. Every day is full of challenges, growth, and laughter, leaving campers with unforgettable memories and stories to share—giving parents the peace of mind that their children are engaged, active, and thriving while school is out.
Day camp programs
Grades K-5
Children entering K-5th grades spend the week exploring and learning. In small groups, campers participate in a wide variety of adventurous outdoor activities to find what they enjoy most! Each week has an exciting theme – don’t miss the opportunity to dress up along with camp staff!
Grade 6-8
This group, the Wolf Pack, includes teens & tweens entering 6-8th grades experience all the fun of camp’s adventurous activities, plus some more advanced challenges! Campers explore adventure outside of Camp Bernie on fun weekly field trips.
Grade 9-11 CITs
The Day Camp Counseor-in-Training (CIT) Program, for those entering 9-11th grade, is offered weekly. Day CITs participate alongside Overnight CITs from 9am–4pm, gaining hands-on experience while building leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. Participants assist camp staff and support younger campers.
Day camp programs
Grade
Pre-K 4s
NEW! This summer we will welcome our youngest campers – the Cubs! This program, designed just for 4-year-olds, is a fun, low-key introduction to the Camp Bernie experience. In small groups, kids will explore camp activities, make new friends, participate in theme weeks and discover what makes camp so much fun.
Grades
K-5
Children entering K-5th grades spend the week exploring and learning. In small groups, campers participate in a wide variety of adventurous outdoor activities to find what they enjoy most! Each week has an exciting theme – don’t miss the opportunity to dress up along with camp staff!
Grade
6-8
This group, the Wolf Pack, includes teens & tweens entering 6-8th grades experience all the fun of camp’s adventurous activities, plus some more advanced challenges! Campers explore adventure outside of Camp Bernie on fun weekly field trips.
Grade 9-11 CITs
The Day Camp Counseor-in-Training (CIT) Program, for those entering 9-11th grade, is offered weekly. Day CITs participate alongside Overnight CITs from 9am–4pm, gaining hands-on experience while building leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. Participants assist camp staff and support younger campers.
DAy camp programs
Grades K-5
Children entering K-5th grades spend the week exploring and learning. In small groups, campers participate in a wide variety of adventurous outdoor activities to find what they enjoy most! Each week has an exciting theme – don’t miss the opportunity to dress up along with camp staff!
Grades 6-8
This group, the Wolf Pack, includes teens & tweens entering 6th-8th grades experience all the fun of camp’s adventurous activities, plus some more advanced challenges! Campers explore adventure outside of Camp Bernie on fun weekly field trips.
Camp activities
There’s so much to explore! With activities ranging from outdoor adventures to arts & crafts, sports, recreation, STEM, nature and ecology, there’s something for everyone to discover.
Click below to see the full list and start planning your adventure!
Day Camp dates
The Wolf Pack has their own adventures on Wednesdays! Only grades 6-8. Trips are subject to change.
| DAY CAMP | THEME | WOLF PACK TRIPS | AVAILABILITY | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | June 21-25 | Medieval Times | Medieval Times | Available |
| Week 2 | June 28-July 2 | Wild, Wild West | Wild West City | Available |
| Week 3 | July 5-9 | Camp Carnival | Frog Falls Water Park | Available |
| Week 4 | July 12-16 | Jurassic Adventure | Essex County Turtle Back Zoo | Available |
| Week 5 | July 19-23 | Pirate Party | Spruce Run Rec Area + Reservoir | Available |
| Week 6 | July 26-30 | Superheros | Dorney Park | Available |
| Week 7 | Aug 2-6 | Color Wars | Branchburg Sports Complex | Available |
| Week 8 | Aug 9-13 | Under the Sea | Camelbeach Waterpark | Available |
| Week 9 | Aug 16-20 | Mad Scientist | Liberty Science Center | Available |
Add-Ons
Add even more fun to your camper’s day!
Breakfast + Lunch
Day campers can now fuel up with optional breakfast and/or lunch at camp! Sample Menu
Campers must arrive by 7:45 for breakfast.
Meals are each $60/week, both for $100/week
Before + After Care
Before Care (7:00-8:45AM): $50
After Care (4:15-6:00PM): $50
Extended Care (8-9AM + 4-5PM): $50
Campers enjoy games, crafts, and special activities before and after the official camp days.
Bus Transportation
Bus transportation for local campers.
Please visit our Transportation FAQ page for route details.
2027 Rate: $60 one way/$90 both ways per family
Thursday Campouts
Get a taste of overnight camp!
Experience staying in a cabin, eating meals in the Dining Hall, making s’mores, and playing evening games! Thursday dinner and Friday breakfast are included.
2027 Rate: $70/select weeks
Swim Lessons
Certified Lifeguards help children learn and improve their swimming skills through engaging activities.
Lessons run 4–5 PM, Mon–Thu, with Friday as a backup for thunder delays.
2027 Rate: $115/week
Archery Lessons
Our USAA-certified instructors help kids improve their skills while playing fun marksmanship games.
Lessons run 4–5 PM, Mon–Thu, with Friday as a backup for thunder delays.
2027 Rate: $80/week
2027 Day Camp pricing
| Grade | Units | 2027 Weekly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-K - 4 year olds | Cubs | $430 |
| K-5 | Lions, Foxes, Bears | $410 |
| 6-8 | Wolf Pack | $480 (Includes Trip) |
| 9-11 | Day CITs | $390 |
| Add On Item | 2027 Weekly Rate |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | $60 |
| Lunch | $60 |
| Breakfast + Lunch | $100 |
| Before Care 7:00-8:45AM | $50 |
| After Care 4:15-6:00PM | $50 |
| Extended Care 8:00-9:00AM + 4:00-5:00PM | $50 |
| Thursday Campout | $70 |
| Bus Transportation (Per Family) | $60 1 way/ $90 both ways per family |
| Swim Lessons | $115 |
| Archery Lessons | $80 |
Grade
Units
2025 Weekly Rate
K-5
Lions, Foxes, Bears
$410
6-8
Wolf Pack
$480 (Includes Trip)
9-11
Counselors In Training
$390
Registering before June 1st?
A minimum deposit of $100 (per week) is due at the time of registration, to secure your camper’s spot.
Balance payments can be split up and charged on a monthly basis if desired. Payment plans are set up through online registration. If you need assistance setting up a payment plan, please email info@campbernieymca.org. Balances are due by June 1st.
Registering after June 1st?
Registration fully closes the Wednesday prior to the start of the session. This includes add-ons like lunch, transportation, and after-camp lessons.
Registration after June 1st must be paid in full.
Summer Camp for All: Financial Aid
We believe the opportunity to gain personal growth from summer camp should be accessible to all children regardless of financial situation or socioeconomic status. Our Summer Camp for All program ensures that nobody is turned away because of inability to pay.
Add Ons
No add ons found.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a typical day at camp look like?
7:00am-8:30am
8:00am-8:30am
8:45am-9:00am
9:00am-9:15am
9:15am-10:45am
10:45am-12:15pm
12:30pm-1:00pm
1:00pm-2:30pm
2:30pm-3:45pm
3:45pm-4:00pm
4:00pm-6:00pm
4:00pm-5:00pm
Before Care/ Early Drop-off
Breakfast (additional cost)
Regular Drop-Off
Flagpole (official start of the camp day)
Activity A with age group
Activity B with age group
Lunch
Activity C with age group
Activity D with age group
Regular Pick-up
Aftercare/ Later Pick-up
Lessons (additional cost)
7:00am-8:30am
Before Care/ Early Drop-off
8:00am-8:30am
Breakfast (additional cost)
8:45am-9:00am
Regular Drop-off
9:00am-9:15am
Flagpole (official start of the camp day)
9:15am-10:45am
Activity A (with age group)
10:45am-12:15pm
Activity B (with age group)
12:30pm-1:00pm
Lunch
1:00pm-2:30pm
Activity C (with age group)
2:30pm-3:45pm
Activity D ( with age group)
3:45pm-4:00pm
Regular Pick-up
4:00pm-6:00pm
Aftercare/Later Pick-up
4:00pm-5:00pm
Lessons (additional cost)
What should my camper pack for a day of camp?
Please label each item with your camper’s name to ensure that is returned to you if it gets misplaced.
- Water Bottle
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- Lunch if packing
- Change of clothes including underwear
- Closed-toe shoes (required)
Optional:
- Goggles for swimming
- Appropriate attire for inclement weather
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Bug spray
Electronic devices such as cell phones, handheld video games, and smart watches are not permitted.
What are the bus routes and times?
East Route
Pick-up Drop Off Location
7:55-8:00 4:55-5:00 Valley View School – Lebanon Township
8:15-8:20 4:40-4:45 Emmanuel Bible Church – Long Valley
8:30-8:35 4:20-4:25 Hackettstown Middle School – Hackettstown
West Route
Pick-up Drop Off Location
7:55-8:00 4:55-5:00 Warren County Library – Southwest Branch
8:15-8:20 4:40-4:45 Franklin Township Elementary School – Franklin Township
8:30-8:35 4:20-4:25 Faith Discovery Church – Washington
2027 Rate: $60 one way/$90 both ways per family
What is your refund policy?
Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferrable for all programs.
Once full payment is made, families who need to withdraw will be eligible for a refund until June 1st (excluding deposit).
Inability to attend camp due to extenuating circumstance (including but not limited to illness, injury, family emergency or health challenges) will be considered for refund on a case-by-case basis with written documentation.
Does Camp Bernie offer Financial Aid?
Yes! Applications for Camp Scholarships are considered on a rolling basis as long as funds remain available. The first round of applications are reviewed on March 1st. Only complete applications can be considered. Scholarships are awarded for up to 60% of the full tuition rate. Amounts awarded are based on financial need.
Full details about Financial Aid options can be found here: Fees + Financial Aid
When does registration close?
Families are encouraged to register for their camp weeks as soon as possible to guarantee their camper’s spot. A waiting list will be created if camper units reach capacity. Registration officially closes at 5 p.m. the Wednesday prior to each week of camp.
The system says I've been waitlisted. How do the waitlists work?
Our camp has limited spots available for campers based on state and ACA required ratios. Once those slots have filled with campers who have paid their deposit, the system will offer a waitlist option to campers still trying to register. Sessions have been filling earlier and earlier each year. If you are on a waitlist, we will contact you directly to offer you a spot only if someone else drops out and your camper is next on the list. Please email us at info@www.campbernieymca.org if you would like to be removed from a waitlist. Our system will not permit families to pay camp tuition for waitlisted sessions, so if a spot opens up, the new camper’s tuition will need to be paid in order to secure that spot.
I think I have a credit on my account. How do I use it?
Credits from prior years will not show online, only for Camp Administrators. Please add the new session(s) to your camper’s account and DO NOT make a payment. Contact us to let us know you’re ready to have a credit applied and we will do so manually. If you have a balance left after the credit has been applied, you can then pay that balance online. Call 908-832-5315 or info@campbernieymca.org
What is Camp Store?
The Camp Store is stocked with snacks, drinks, clothing items and souvenirs. We also carry a supply of toiletry items that campers may have forgotten. Campers have the opportunity to visit the camp store on a daily basis. As our camp store is cashless, money can be added to your camper’s online account throughout the session.
What happens to my unspent Camp Store money?
At the end of the summer camp season, families will have three options for any unspent Camp Store money:
1. Credit for the future – the money will be kept as a credit in your Camp Store account for your next session or event at camp.
2. Donate Unused Funds – send an email to info@campbernieymca.org
and let us know you’d like to donate your unused Camp Store money to our scholarship fund to allow children to have a once-in-a-lifetime camp experience who otherwise would not have been able to.
3. Request a Refund – send an email to info@campbernieymca.org
and let us know you’d like your money refunded and we will process your request to your original payment method.
What do you do to make first-time campers feel comfortable?
From the moment your camper checks in, staff will play games and getting-to-know-you activities that are designed to help your child feel more comfortable at camp and build camp culture. Once check-in has concluded, campers will be provided with a camp orientation and tour. Additionally, if needed camp staff will work together on a game plan for how we can best help struggling campers with guardians.
Can my child be grouped with their friend?
Campers are grouped by grade. Groupings are generally as follows: Kindergarten are Lions, 1st grade are Tigers, 2nd-3rd grade are Foxes, 4th-5th grade are Bears, 6th-8th grade are Wolf Pack and 9th-11th grade are O.W.L.s. Based on ratios and registrations, campers closest to the date of birth of another group may be moved up or down in a unit group.
We accept two requests per camper and children must request each other. With an age gap, we prefer to avoid mixing ages in groups, but when exceptions are made, the older child will be placed in the younger group.
Do campers pick their own activities?
Campers will receive an orientation on program offerings and will sign up for the 1 program activity they are interested in as a free choice activity block. (We will do our best to accomodate campers first few choices based on interest and demand). These activities are your more traditional camp activities which include but are not limited to: canoeing, archery, swim, arts and crafts and more. The other activity blocks will be on a scheduled per-selected rotation
Ocassionally campers will get the ability to have a free choice special activity AKA “Smorgasbord”. These activities are more fluid, niche and “silly” in nature and could range from things like: L.A.R.P, Tye-dye, Capture the Flag, nature hike, ultimate frisbee and more.
What do you do on rainy days?
Day Camp is in session rain or shine. If weather is mild to moderate, camp activities will proceed as scheduled. It is recommended that campers pack rain gear. For heavy rain, we run special, pre-planned indoor activities. During a thunderstorm, all campers and staff will immediately be brought indoors to shelter-in-place for “Thunder Call”. The immediate surrounding 10 miles must be clear of thunder and lightning for a total of 10 minutes to conclude “Thunder Call”. If at any point during a “Thunder Call”, lightning or thunder is detected within the immediate area, the clock will reset.
What are your medical procedures?
For Day Camp, if your child is experiencing symptoms of illness, we ask that you keep them home.
Our camp contracts through AMN Healthcare (American Mobile Nurses) for a vetted licensed RN or LPN for the entirety of the summer. If the Camp Nurse is ever off property, there is an assigned health officer on property. Medication is stored and administered by the Nurse. If there is an emergency that requires medical transport, Hackettstown Regional Medical Center is 20 minutes from Camp. All staff are trained in emergency procedures. Many staff are also certified in Basic First Aid and AED/CPR. If a child sustains an injury or is feeling unwell, the camp staff will assess the injury and transport the child to the wellness cabin for further observation and care if necessary. Upon initial care and observation, if extensive care or isolation is needed, the Camp Nurse or Health Office will contact the guardian for a continued care plan.
My child has special health needs, is camp right for them?
We firmly believe that camp is for ALL. We also recognize that each child is unique and some may require additional physical or behavioral support. While we will make every effort to accommodate our campers and families, we also recognize that sometimes due to the environment or staffing structure that your child may need support that is beyond our scope. When registering your child, please ensure that you complete the “Camper Profile Sheet”, “Health History” and if applicable “Medication” information in full. Additionally to find out if YMCA Camp Bernie is the right fit for your family, you are always welcome to call us and speak with our Administrative team to collaborate on a plan for your child’s success during their time here.
What are the qualifications of your staff?
Eighty percent of counselors are 18 and up; mostly college students. Counselors have at least two interviews, have a minimum of three references checked and must clear a criminal background screening both through Praesidium (which includes the national sex offender public system) and the CARI state background check system. Staff are also fingerprinted by the state of NJ. Prior to camp, staff attend 2 weeks of in-person training, as well as online training courses through the Redwoods Group and the state of NJ. Head Counselors, Unit Leaders and specialists attend additional trainings.
Specialists have trainings and certifications relevant to their program areas as well as American Red Cross First Aid and CPR/AED certifications. Lifeguards are certified by the American Red Cross. Staff Trainings include topics required by the American Camping Association as well as the state of new Jersey that range from emergency procedures, handling homesickness, engaging programming, child abuse prevention, inclusion, youth development, and much more.