Summer Day Camp in Blairstown, Warren County
Lake in the Woods Day Camp
Discover the Magic of Summer at Lake in the Woods YMCA Day Camp!
Give your child an unforgettable summer filled with adventure, creativity, and lasting friendships at Lake in the Woods YMCA Day Camp, located on the stunning 525-acre campus of Blair Academy in Blairstown, NJ.
Whether they’re diving into sports, cooling off in the pool, testing their aim at target games, or expressing themselves through painting, photography, and ceramics, every camper will thrive in a dynamic and supportive environment. With engaging activities, top-tier facilities, and a caring staff, each day is filled with opportunities for growth, teamwork, and confidence—all while having a blast! Join us for an incredible summer where every day is a new adventure!
Our Programs, Dates, & Rates
Traditional Day Camp
Coed Entering Grades K-9 | Two-Week Session, Monday-Friday
Session 1: June 29 - July 10, 2026
Session 2: July 13-24, 2026
Session 3: July 27 - August 7, 2026
Our Traditional sessions provide a structured program to encourage campers to try new things, form strong friendships, learn cooperation and teamwork skills, and have fun. Each themed session will bring a variety of entertaining and engaging activities to spark the imagination of your child and bring out their very best. At the beginning of each week, campers will choose from a variety of activities - including archery, boating, ceramics, sports, and more. Daily swimming, including swim instruction, plus fun all-camp activities and adventures make this a summer you won't want to miss.
$825
Specialty Camp
Kickoff Camp
Coed Entering Grades K-9 | One Week Session, Monday-Friday
June 22-26, 2026
School’s out so summer’s in! LWDC Kickoff Camp is an exciting opportunity for kids to explore and try new activities every day. During this week-long camp, campers have the chance to participate in a range of activities that promote discovery and learning. These activities may include arts and crafts, daily swimming, field games and team-building games, and more. Each day we’ll offer a new selection of activities so that campers can try a little bit of everything in this action-packed week!
$425
NEW! Snails
Coed, Entering PreK 3-PreK 5 | One & Two Week Sessions, Monday-Friday
Specialty Week: June 22-26, 2026
$425
Session 1: June 29 - July 10, 2026
Session 2: July 13-24, 2026
Session 3: July 27 - August 7, 2026
$825
Our Snails program is specially designed for our youngest campers—curious, energetic Pre-K explorers who are taking their first steps into the world of summer camp! Children must be 3-5 years old and fully potty trained.
Just like real snails, our campers move at their own pace, carry their big adventure packs, and always have a cozy “shell” to rest in when they need a break. With a specialized schedule tailored just for them, Snails enjoy a perfect mix of excitement and downtime, ensuring they feel safe, supported, and ready to explore!
🐚 A dedicated Snail Shell for quiet time & recharging
🎨 Hands-on activities designed for little hands & big imaginations
🌳 Outdoor fun that encourages confidence, friendships, and discovery
The Snails may be small, but their camp experience is BIG—full of wonder, laughter, and first-time adventures they’ll remember forever!
Y For All Financial Assistance
The YMCA provides financial assistance to those who may require help covering the costs of camp. Our Y for All Fund plays a crucial role in keeping the Y accessible for children, adults, and families who need support. By offering financial assistance, the Y ensures that all individuals and families can participate in Y programs and services, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Select an option below:
- Facilities & Activities
- Before & After Care
- Getting to Camp
Facilities
Campers explore creativity in state-of-the-art classrooms, take the stage in the theater, and unleash their energy on the athletic fields and courts. Lunch and Snack are included, and served in the lovely Blair Dining Hall. The beautiful campus, with its winding paths and inviting green spaces, fosters a sense of wonder and belonging, making it more than just a summer camp—it’s a place where memories are made, and lifelong friendships take root.
What to Bring to Camp
Camp is a fun, busy, active place. Day campers should arrive to camp in their bathing suits. Campers should wear sneakers to camp. Please send the following items to camp daily!
- Change of Clothing
- Towel
- Goggles
- Refillable Water Bottle
- Raincoat or Poncho
- Sunscreen, Hat & Sunglasses
- Bugspray
Theme Weeks
Part of what makes camp so special are our theme weeks! Each week of camp has a unique theme - from Party in the USA week, to Color War Week, to Campstock, each has unique activities and programs.
The 2026 Theme calendar is not set quite yet, so check back to see what summer adventures we have planned!
Summer Activities
While each week comes with its own adventures, here is a sample of the awesome activities available to us at Blair Academy.
Archery, Arts & Crafts, Basketball, Canoeing, Ceramics, Dance, Fishing, GaGa, Hiking, Improv, Nature, Swimming, Swim Lessons, Tennis, Theater, & So Much More!
Sample Schedule
7:30 am: Before-Care Begins*
8:45 am: Drop-Off Begins
9:00 am: Morning Round-Up
9:30 am: Activity Periods 1 & 2
12:00 pm: Lunch
1:10 pm: Activity Period 3
2:20 pm: Swim
3:30 pm: Activity Period 4
4:45 pm: Snack & Afternoon Round-Up
5:00 pm: Pick Up Begins
5:15-6:00 pm: After-Care*
*registration is required for before- & after-care.
Extended Care
Campers who need to arrive before 9 am, or depart after 5 pm can be registered for before- or after-care at camp!
Before Care: 7:30 - 9:00 am | $42 Per Week
After Care: 5:00-6:00 pm | $42 Per Week
Drop-Off & Pick-Up Instructions
AM Drop Off: 8:30-8:50 AM
Plan to arrive at the Hardwick Hall Parking lot on Golf Course Rd between 8:30-8:50 AM. Camp will start promptly at 9AM and we dont want your camper to miss anything.
Families should not get out of their vehicles unless directed to do so by the staff.
Campers will be signed in by a staff member.
PM Pick-Up: 5-5:15 PM
Plan to pick up your child at the Hardwick Hall Parking lot on Golf Course Rd between 5-5:15 PM.
Families should not get out of their vehicles unless directed to do so by the staff. An adult on your child's release form must sign them out. We can not release children to anyone without written permission. All adults must present a state or gov't issued ID.
To update your child's release form after registration, please email our office at lakeinthewoods@metroymcas.org
LATE Arrivals:
Our staff will call families if a child does not come to camp. If you know you will be late, please call us!
Early Departures:
Families wishing to pick up their child before the designated pick up time will compete a form. This form will allow you to choose an earlier departure time and help our staff make sure your child is ready to go! Please check your email on Sundays in the summer for the form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are our most Frequently Asked Questions. If you have additional questions, or just want to talk about camp, we're here year round!
Year Round Office: 973-383-9282
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Why choose Lake in the Woods?
Lake in the Woods YMCA Day Camp is the perfect place for kids to unplug, explore, and grow in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Located on the beautiful Blair Academy campus, our overnight camp offers the perfect blend of adventure, creativity, and friendship. Campers gain independence as they try new activities, build confidence through exciting challenges, and create lifelong memories with new friends. Guided by caring staff, every child is encouraged to discover their strengths, develop resilience, and embrace the joy of being part of a welcoming camp community. At Lake in the Woods, kids don’t just spend the summer—they experience it to the fullest!
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Do you provide Financial Assistance?
Yes! Financial assistance is available for families who are unable to pay the entire camp tuition and qualify for assistance.
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Do campers swim every day?
Yes! All campers have swim lessons and free swim as part of their daily schedule.
Campers enjoy swimming in the beautiful indoor pool at Blair Academy. The pool is staffed by American Red Cross certified lifeguards, and supervised by a Water Safety Instructor.
Every child will be swim tested on their first day of camp to determine their swimming level, and be given a swim band to wear for the session. Please encourage your camper to keep the swim band on when they are at home. -
What will my child eat?
Meals and snacks are served out of the Blair Academy Dining Hall. Campers will sit with their bunk or age group with their counselors. A variety of menu items, including salads, are available.
Day Campers will have Lunch & a snack daily. -
What if my child gets sick or hurt at camp?
If your camper becomes sick during their stay, you will be contacted.
A licensed medical professional with advanced medical training is on-site 24 hours a day.
If your camper requires emergency treatment, we will contact you immediately. If we cannot reach you, we will contact your camper's emergency contact. -
Are immunizations required?
Yes. All campers are required to submit a record of their immunizations prior to attending camp. Please upload a copy to their registration account.
Please contact our office if you are unable to provide a current immunization record.
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Do you allow phones?
No. Campers are not permitted to have cellphones or other internet connected devices. We’re proudly unplugged at Lake in the Woods. Without phones, tablets, or personal devices, campers are free to focus on real connections—with nature, their friends, and themselves. This break from screens fosters creativity, mindfulness, and friendships that feel even more meaningful. And while they may miss their devices at first, campers quickly discover that the best kind of connection happens face-to-face, around a campfire, in a canoe, or during a silly game.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why choose Lake in the Woods Sleepaway Camp?
Lake in the Woods YMCA Sleepaway Camp is the perfect place for kids to unplug, explore, and grow in a supportive and fun-filled environment. Located on the beautiful Blair Academy campus, our overnight camp offers the perfect blend of adventure, creativity, and friendship. Campers gain independence as they try new activities, build confidence through exciting challenges, and create lifelong memories with new friends. Guided by caring staff, every child is encouraged to discover their strengths, develop resilience, and embrace the joy of being part of a welcoming camp community. At Lake in the Woods, kids don’t just spend the summer—they experience it to the fullest!
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What if my child gets sick or hurt at camp?
If your camper becomes sick during their stay, you will be contacted.
A licensed medical professional with advanced medical training is on-site 24 hours a day.
If your camper requires emergency treatment, we will contact you immediately. If we cannot reach you, we will contact your camper's emergency contact.
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Are immunizations required?
Yes. All campers are required to submit a record of their immunizations prior to attending camp. Please upload a copy to their registration account.
Please contact our office if you are unable to provide a current immunization record.
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Do campers swim every day?
Yes! All campers have swim lessons and free swim as part of their daily schedule.
Campers enjoy swimming in the beautiful indoor pool at Blair Academy. The pool is staffed by American Red Cross certified lifeguards, and supervised by a Water Safety Instructor.
Every child will be swim tested on their first day of camp to determine their swimming level, and be given a swim band to wear for the session. Please encourage your camper to keep the swim band on when they are at home.
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Do you provide Financial Assistance?
Yes! Financial assistance is available for families who are unable to pay the entire camp tuition and qualify for assistance.
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What will my child eat?
Meals and snacks are served out of the Blair Academy Dining Hall. Campers will sit with their bunk or age group with their counselors. A variety of menu items, including salads, are available.
Sleepaway Campers will have Lunch & Dinner on Monday, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tuesday-Thursday, and Breakfast and Lunch on Friday, as well as daily snacks.
If your child has food allergies or a specialized diet, please indicate it on their dietary form when they are registered.
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Camper Medication
To improve efficiency and ensure our nurses spend more time caring for campers, Fairview Lake YMCA Camps and Lake in the Woods YMCA Camps will require all medications to be pre-packaged by a licensed pharmacy for the Summer 2025 season. This change allows us to streamline medication administration and reduce time spent organizing medications, ensuring campers return to their activities more quickly.
What You Need to Do
- Complete your child’s health history form (online) and include all medications they will be taking at camp.
- Complete and have a physician sign their medication form and email it to fairviewlake@metroymcas.org at least four weeks before your child’s arrival.
- Arrange for your camper’s medications to be pre-packaged by a pharmacy of your choice. Make sure that your child’s physician has written a prescription for all medication they will be taking, including vitamins. This will allow the filling pharmacy to include it in the packaging.
- The packaging must meet the following requirements:
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Camper’s full name
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Medication names
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Dosages
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Dispense times
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Clearly sorted by day and time
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- On check-in day, families must bring their child’s pre-packaged medications to the nurses' station. Please bring enough medication for your child’s entire stay at camp.
Finding a Pharmacy
Many local or mail-order pharmacies provide pre-packaged medication services. We recommend contacting your pharmacy to inquire about this option. Please ensure you allow enough time for the pharmacy to prepare the medications before check-in day. Most pharmacies will package both prescribed and “over-the-counter” medications together, provided you have a prescription for all of the requested medications.
What Medications Need to be Packaged?
Any medications in pill form that your child will take at camp must be packaged. Packaging should be arranged so that each package contains the exact dosage and medications needed to be taken: ie all breakfast/morning medication should be packaged together.
Vitamins and supplements in pill form must also be included in the package. Please speak with your pharmacist to include these.
Medications that are not in pill form (ie liquids, inhalers, injectables, epi-pens) do not need to be packaged and should arrive at camp in their original packaging.
Our health center keeps common medications in stock for our nurses to distribute as needed. Please indicate that your child can take these medications on their health history form. Do not package these medications with your child’s prescriptions.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we implement this process, which allows our nurses to focus more on camper care. If you have any questions or need assistance in finding a pharmacy, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
International Campers: Please contact our office to discuss medication packaging options.
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Arriving at Camp
Families registered for camp will receive emails prior to their child's stay at camp. Please make sure you allow emails from the domain: @metroymcas.org
Campers Arriving by Bus:
Campers taking the bus will meet at one of our three designated bus stops. Please be on time (or early!) so that we can have an on-time departure. Campers should arrive having eaten breakfast. At check in, your child will have a brief health screening, including a lice check and a temperature screening.
We are planning 3 bus pick up locations this summer: Livingston, Wayne, and Lower Manhattan.
Campers Arriving by Car:
Families dropping their child off at camp should plan to arrive between 8:30-9 AM. Campers should arrive having eaten breakfast and ready for camp! At check-in, your child will have a brief health screening, including a lice check and a temperature screening.
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Departing from Camp
Campers Departing By Bus:
PLEASE NOTE: Time and location of bus stops may change. We are assuming that I-80 will be open by the summer (fingers crossed!)
Wayne, NJ
The bus for Wayne will depart camp at 5 pm. Families should plan to arrive at the Y at 6:15 PM to pick up their child. If the bus is delayed, we will contact you. Detailed instructions for the bus will be emailed to families a week prior to their camp start date.
Livingston, NJ
The bus for Livingston will depart camp at 5 pm. Families should plan to arrive at the Y at 6:45 PM to pick up their child. If the bus is delayed, we will contact you. Detailed instructions for the bus will be emailed to families a week prior to their camp start date.
NYC Pick Up
NYC families will be contacted to arrange a drop-off time and location.
Campers Departing by Car:
Families should plan to pick up their children at 5 pm at the Anne Hall Parking Lot.
Keeping Kids Safe
Learn more about our commitment to keeping kids safe from abuse.
