YMCA Camp Bernie

YMCA Camp Bernie offers Summer Camp with day and overnight options, along with Counselors-in-Training for older campers. It also offers School Vacation Camps with a climbing tower, archery range, nature lessons, and crafts, plus Outdoor Education with hands-on learning in nature and ecology, challenge courses, and team-building activities. Youth + Family programs include family camps, winter cabin rentals, and kid and community events.

Programs

• Summer Camp — Traditional day and overnight camp; includes classic camp adventures and Counselors-in-Training programs for older campers.
• Day Camp
• Overnight Camp
• Counselors-in-Training — Program for older campers.
• School Vacation Camps — Fun, reliable, and affordable childcare option when schools are on break; includes climbing tower, archery range, nature lessons, and crafts.
• Youth + Family — Year-round family opportunities for fun and connection, including family camps, winter cabin rentals, and kid and community events.
• Groups + Schools — Programs for schools, scouts, faith groups, or teams; day or overnight with cabins, meals, and activities.
• Outdoor Education — Year-round outdoor education programs for all ages, including hands-on learning in nature and ecology, challenge courses, and team-building activities.

At a glance

• Current session: School Vacation Camp – Teacher Convention (Nov 5–Nov 6, 2026); Fall Family Camp (Nov 6–Nov 8, 2026)
• General schedule: Summer camp runs in summer as a traditional day and overnight camp. Year-round outdoor education includes group day and overnight trips, family weekends, school vacation programs, community enrichment lessons, and private rentals.
• Facility hours: During Summer Camp Monday-Friday 7:00AM-6:00PM; Office Hours Monday-Friday 9:00AM-5:00PM

About the provider

YMCA Camp Bernie has been operating since 1956. The program is guided by the YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. It is a non-profit, charitable organization.

Online registration is temporarily unavailable due to a technical issue with the software provider; callers are asked to phone 908-832-5315 for help registering. Camp Bernie is a non-profit, charitable organization.

What families say

“Camp Bernie is an awesome place where children go to have a great time. The counselors make each child feel special. They experience new things, learn about nature and make new friends. There is always something new to try or someone new to get to know. Year after year it is where they go to meet up with their friends.” — Noreen S.

“Looking for a great Traditional Summer Camp? Camp Bernie is the place for you! My son thought he would die without his phone for a week, he didn't even ask for it on the car ride home! He was so excited to tell us about all he did. Can’t wait to sign him up this year!” — Doreen L.

“YMCA Camp Bernie is truly a hidden gem in the world of New Jersey summer camps. It’s not just a camp — it’s a community where kids are seen, supported, and celebrated for exactly who they are. As I write this, my heart still squeezes at how proud I am of my daughter and how grateful I am of the staff and the experience she had here.” — Meaghan M.

Last updated October 18, 2026.