Camp Y-Oak-A

For families in the heart of Bergen County, Camp Y-Oak-A stands as a cherished summer institution that has been shaping the childhoods of New Jersey residents for decades. Located in the picturesque borough of Saddle River, this campground serves as the flagship summer day camp for the YWCA Northern New Jersey. Since its establishment in the mid-20th century, the camp has remained dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and high-energy environment where children can step away from their screens and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Garden State. Unlike primitive wilderness campgrounds, Camp Y-Oak-A is specifically designed as a functional day-use facility that combines rustic outdoor charm with structured developmental programming.

The philosophy of the camp is deeply rooted in the mission of the YWCA, focusing on empowerment, social-emotional growth, and community building. For local parents, it is more than just a place to send children during the summer months; it is a community hub where kids from different backgrounds come together to learn leadership skills and forge lifelong friendships. The sprawling greenery of the Saddle River site provides a tranquil backdrop for a wide array of activities, from traditional campfire songs to modern educational workshops. It is a place where the sounds of laughter and the splashing of water define the summer season for hundreds of local campers each year.

Location and accessibility are two of the strongest attributes of Camp Y-Oak-A. Situated at 96 E Allendale Rd, Saddle River, NJ 07458, the camp is nestled in one of the most scenic areas of Northern New Jersey. Its proximity to major local thoroughfares like Route 17 and the Garden State Parkway makes it an ideal choice for commuting parents from surrounding towns such as Upper Saddle River, Allendale, Ramsey, and Ho-Ho-Kus. The facility is tucked away from the main road, ensuring a private and secure environment that feels worlds apart from the urban bustle of nearby New York City, yet remains conveniently reachable for morning drop-offs and afternoon pick-ups.

The grounds themselves are designed to be navigable and welcoming. As a facility managed by a professional organization, the site is maintained to high standards of safety and cleanliness. The accessibility of the location allows for a seamless transition from the suburban residential streets into a wooded sanctuary where the focus shifts entirely to outdoor recreation and youth development. This strategic location in Saddle River ensures that families have access to top-tier camping experiences without the need for long-distance travel or overnight stays, making it a staple of the local summer lifestyle.

• Comprehensive summer day camp programs tailored for various age groups, typically serving children from elementary through middle school ages.
• Structured swim instruction and recreational swim periods supervised by certified lifeguards to ensure water safety and skill development.
• Arts and crafts workshops designed to stimulate creativity and allow campers to express themselves through various mediums.
• Character-building and leadership programs, including Counselor-in-Training (CIT) opportunities for older youth.
• Outdoor education sessions that teach children about the local New Jersey ecosystem, flora, and fauna.
• Organized team sports and field games that promote physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy competition.
• Themed weeks and special event days that keep the curriculum fresh and exciting throughout the summer season.
• Financial assistance and scholarship programs offered through the YWCA to ensure the camp remains accessible to all members of the community.

The features and highlights of Camp Y-Oak-A are centered on the holistic development of the camper. One of the most significant highlights is the focus on "Inclusive Camping," where the staff is trained to support children with diverse needs, ensuring every child feels valued and included. The site features ample shaded areas, open fields for large-group gatherings, and dedicated spaces for quiet reflection and small-group learning. The camp’s long history in the region means it operates with a deep understanding of local family needs and expectations, providing a nostalgic yet modern experience for the next generation of New Jerseyans.

• A historic legacy as the YWCA’s first summer day camp, providing a sense of tradition and reliability for Bergen County families.
• Expansive outdoor play areas that include fields for soccer, kickball, and traditional camp games.
• Shaded woodland groves that provide a natural canopy for cooling off during the peak heat of July and August.
• Dedicated art pavilions and indoor spaces for activities during inclement weather, ensuring the camp day proceeds rain or shine.
• A strong emphasis on social justice and empowerment, integrating the YWCA’s core values into daily camp life.
• Low staff-to-camper ratios that allow for personalized attention and the fostering of meaningful mentor relationships.
• Convenient scheduling options designed to accommodate the needs of working parents in the Saddle River area.
• Regular communication with parents, providing updates on activities and milestones throughout the summer.

For those interested in learning more about registration, session dates, or specific program details, the camp office is available to assist. It is highly recommended to reach out early in the year, as spots at this popular local destination tend to fill up quickly as the summer season approaches. The professional staff can provide guidance on everything from what to pack in a camp bag to the specific goals of the summer curriculum.

Address: 96 E Allendale Rd, Saddle River, NJ 07458, USA

Phone: (201) 760-1139

Mobile: +1 201-760-1139

When considering the many options for youth summer programming in Northern New Jersey, Camp Y-Oak-A is worth choosing because of its unique combination of heritage and heart. It is a destination that prioritizes the emotional and social well-being of the child just as much as their physical activity. For local residents, the value of having a high-quality camp located right in Saddle River cannot be overstated. It eliminates the stress of long commutes while providing children with a "true camp" experience—dirt on their shoes, sun on their faces, and a sense of belonging that lasts long after the summer ends.

Choosing Camp Y-Oak-A also means supporting the broader mission of the YWCA Northern New Jersey, which works year-round to provide essential services to the community. The camp serves as a shining example of how local businesses and non-profits can create spaces that enrich the lives of the youth. Whether your child is a first-time camper looking to overcome shyness or a returning veteran ready to take on a leadership role, Camp Y-Oak-A provides the tools, the environment, and the community to make every summer a transformative adventure. It remains a cornerstone of the Saddle River landscape, proving that the simplest joys of childhood—outdoor play, friendship, and discovery—are still the most valuable.