Camp Activities
Every Day is a New Adventure!
To filter by activity type, please click the buttons below. View an interactive map of camp.
Teambuilding & Adventure
Bouldering Wall
Great as a shorter activity or during an open sports period, this activity teaches climbing techniques without the fear factor of extreme height.
Zipline
This exhilarating activity for participants 5th grade and older, the Zipline takes place at 41 feet above the ground, and lets participants soar above the treetops, across the full length of our athletic field (over 300 feet)!
Vertical Playpen
This adventure activity combines everything we love about teambuilding: getting everyone involved, stepping out of our comfort zones, and working together to get the team to the top! Up to 4 climbers use their creativity to help each other to the top. It starts with a cargo net, leads on to a giant ladder, and […]
Teambuilding Challenges
The core of our Teambuilding Challenges presents each group with various obstacles, some more physical in nature than others. Although success is the focus, we determine the group’s success not by whether they complete a challenge or how fast, but by the degree to which they make progress working together as a group. There are […]
Rappelling
Also taking place at the Climbing Tower, this class teaches a new skill of rappelling down to the ground from the very top. Participants will climb “staples” and learn how to lower themselves to the ground safely with the guidance and backup safety provided by Camp staff. This activity is for participants in 7th grade […]
Raft Building
Build it well or you are likely to get wet! Promoting teamwork, planning and communicationskills, participants work together to build a raft that will be paddled by the team around our pond course. The rafts will be constructed from different components; 55 gallon drums, 1”x6” lumber, and rope. Depending on the size of the class, […]
Low Ropes
Our Low Ropes Course is a series of outdoor obstacles set close to the ground, designed to foster communication, cooperation, and trust among participants. The course requires individuals to work together to navigate various challenges such as ropes, beams, nets and balance structures. It’s ideal for people looking to build teamwork and problem-solving skills in a more accessible and grounded environment. This course offers […]
Initiative Games
Also known as pre-ASEs, this session will get the group ready for the ASE Teambuilding Challenges through group-oriented activities geared toward working together. Fun and relatively easy, individuals will learn some of the needed skills required for the more advanced cooperative learning elements.
High Y
The team will work on trust and communication skills while having a blast during this exciting activity. Two climbers start this challenge individually by climbing 30 feet up two separate trees and traversing two different cables using ropes to balance. They meet each other in the middle and then traverse a second cable using only […]
High Ropes Traverse
An exciting adventure for participants 5th grade and older, High Ropes Tension Traverse is an experience the group will remember for a lifetime! Challenging but rewarding, this session takes place 35 feet above the ground, and is an excellent teambuilding activity. A notable aspect of Camp Bernie is how we incorporate collaboration into our activities! […]
Giant Swing
Participants can choose their own challenges in this exhilarating event. Wearing a harness, a participant is connected to a cable in the trees. A team belay pulls the participant up to his/her desired height, up to 35 feet. When ready, he/she pulls the ripcord and swings. This activity helps build trust and cooperation as well […]
Firecracker
This element provides a challenge for the entire team! Two climbers traverse a wobbly horizontal ladder from opposite directions, while the rest of the team keeps the ladder rungs steady from the ground. This activity builds trust and communication skills within the team. For 6th grade and up.
Crate Stacking
This exciting activity involves building the highest stack of milk crates possible while also standing on top of them. Teamwork and communication skills are the key to the team’s success in building the tallest tower possible. Each team member will get a chance to build and stand on top of their own tower.
Climbing Tower
A 40-foot climbing and rappelling tower that teaches self-confidence, goal setting and team spirit. Participants are securely anchored to what is known as a team belay system which allows them to face and hopefully overcome their fear of heights and test their self-motivation in a challenging but safe environment. The team belay gets everyone involved […]
Nature + Ecology
Hiking
On top of our guided Point Mountain Hike, Camp Bernie features 9 miles of hiking trails. Get to know the forest for the trees on our Red Trail, our most popular, clearly blazed and easy to follow.
Fishing
In one of our newest permanent activities, campers have the opportunity to spend time by our pond and catch some fish! They’ll learn basic skills, including how to set up their rods, cast out into the water, and how to catch and release fish!
Wilderness Survival
Deep in the woods of Camp Bernie, participants will construct a one-person shelter out of materials found in nature. Wilderness survival emphasizes teamwork, challenges the senses, and, when completed, gives participants many of the tools needed to “survive” if placed in an unfamiliar environment. Can be combined with fire-building.
Stream Ecology
Developing an awareness of life within an aquatic ecosystem, participants will have the opportunity to sample plant and animal life in our on-site stream. Different stages of life development are presented, focusing on each organism’s importance and impact on the food chain. Does a frozen pond or stream still support life? Do fish and other […]
Sensory Awareness
Includes a blindfold rope trail through the woods of Camp Bernie. Designed to explore the environment through the four other senses apart from sight. Heightens awareness of all environs, seen and unseen.
Predator & Prey
Ever wonder what it was like to be a rabbit? A bear? A mountain lion? This activity assigns animal roles to students as they take on predator and/or prey positions within the forest environment. Stalk your meal or feel the sometimes frightening reality of the hunt. Learn about animal adaptations, strategies to remain alive and […]
Guided Hike
Hike 2.5 miles of trails through Camp Bernie, to the neighboring Hunterdon County Recreational area, and up to Point Mountain. See four counties at once from the scenic overlook of the Musconetcong River Valley.
Owls & Their Adaptations
What’s an owl pellet…?? Come discover and explore this nocturnal raptor’s important role in the forest food chain. Participants will identify owls, their adaptations and explore their environment, including what they eat. A great hands-on, indoor activity. Additional Cost: $3.50/pellet.
Forest Ecology
Includes a variety of activities ranging from general awareness activities to basic ecology concepts, all presented in an interactive, fun environment. Promotes awareness and appreciation of the multiple values of forests and how ecosystems interrelate. What happens to the forest in Winter? Participants will learn to view the forest as a whole, becoming aware of […]
Fire Building
Along with general fire safety practices, participants will learn where and how to build a safe and proper campfire, as well as techniques for lighting and dousing it. Participants will be tested on the techniques they learn. Can be combined with Wilderness Survival or Campfire Cooking.
Critter Show
We teach appreciation for the animals we show by highlighting their unique beauty as well as the vital role they play in nature. By discussing interesting and little-known facts, we dispel common misconceptions and provide the kids with a literal hands-on experience. In the end, the concept of biodiversity and the animals themselves will be […]
Campfire Cooking
Cook delectable treats right over an open flame! A great activity day or night with a delicious finished product. Additional Cost: $2.50 per person
Sports & Recreation
Carpet Ball
Carpet ball is a fast-paced tabletop game where players roll heavy balls down a carpeted playing surface, aiming to knock their opponent’s balls off the table. It’s easy to learn, competitive, and fun!
Slip ‘n’ Slide
A great Smorgasbord or cabin activity, Slip ‘n’ Slide is camp fun in its purest form! The run is over 50 feet long and leads down the side of a steep grassy hill.
Volleyball
A great way to help a group get to know each other is with a simple game of beach volleyball. It’s simple to learn, fun to play, and a great introduction to the world of team sports. Our sand court is centrally located and nearby our other sport offerings.
Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact, self-refereed team sport that combines the non-stop movement and athletic endurance of soccer with the aerial passing skills of football. Our large athletic field is the perfect place for a pick-up game.
Tug-of-War
For the really competitive groups out there, Tug-of-War settles and causes most arguments at camp. Die-hard campers will agree, it’s just not camp without tug-of-war!
Tetherball
A clear Day Camp favorite, tetherball is available right at the center of everything. It’s a simple game with an intense following.
Spikeball
Another new backyard craze sweeping college campuses everywhere is Spikeball. A small springy ball and an elastic net come together for some explosive fun!
Soccer
Giant soccer nets adorn our large athletic field, just begging for a big game to break out. Whether it’s a handful of kids kicking around or an all-out campers vs. counselor match, we’re ready!
Air Pillow
You’ll jump for joy when you see what’s coming to Camp Bernie this summer!
Snow Tubing
If the weather is right, there’s no better way to spend a winter day than snow tubing. Our Slip ‘n’ Slide hill doubles as a great tubing or sled run, and equipment is already on hand.
Scavenger Hunt
Looking for a fun way to let your participants tour camp? Send them on a Camp Bernie scavenger hunt! They’ll get to know their way around and have a blast at the same time.
Recreation Hall
Located on the top floor of the Dining Hall, this indoor space offers air hockey, table-top shuffleboard, foosball, Board Games, and a variety of books to keep everyone entertained when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Kickball
Relive your childhood glory days with this classic game of kick baseball. Playground balls and field space are available to get everyone involved.
Kan Jam
Slot the disc and win the game! This new backyard classic has teams of two trying to score points by getting their disc into the can. It’s addictive and fun for novices and experts, and can be played almost anywhere.
Gaga Ball
A clear camper favorite, Camp Bernie offers 3 gaga ball pits throughout camp which are open for campers and groups to use.
Frisbee Golf
Our 9-hole course will challenge you and take you on a tour of our facility. Disc sets are available.
Flag Football
Our large athletic field lends itself to a wide variety of sports, but a definite favorite is flag football. Durable belts with detachable tags are available, as well as a rainbow of pinnies.
Basketball
Our large, outdoor court with four hoops of adjustable sizes is great for passing time with a quick pick-up game, one-on-one, knock-out, around the world, or even tournament style games.
Kayaking
Nestled among the trees lies “Far Pond.” Our kayaking program gives participants a chance to get up close and personal with aquatic wildlife as they paddle around this secluded natural oasis just waiting to be discovered.
Swimming
Recreational and instructional swimming activities are offered in our swimming pool. American Red Cross-certified lifeguards oversee all swimming activities. All campers are swim tested for ability, and life jackets are available.
Karaoke
Great fun! We supply the equipment and music. You supply the singers!
Canoeing
Our trained instructors teach students about the parts of a canoe, safety requirements, proper paddle strokes, maneuvering, and basic rescue techniques. Canoeing games may be included. Additionally, participants may learn how to approach and observe wildlife from a new perspective and enjoy the serene tranquility of being on the water.
Archery
Participants learn proper safety and shooting techniques under the close supervision of our trained and certified staff. We review safety, equipment, posture, and purpose as participants practice and develop their shooting abilities, while exercising their body and mind.
Arts + STEM
Woodshop
An exciting opportunity for our older campers, Woodshop brings together the creativity of the arts with the tactile sensations of our other more hands-on activities. Campers will learn safety regulations before being able to build and create their own projects—from sculptures to birdhouses the options are limitless!
Music
Campers will be introduced to the ukulele, learning how to tune a ukulele, finger placement, notation, how to read chord charts, and how to play basic chords. Campers will also be taught simple songs that they will be able to perform for their campmates.
Drama
Skills addressed include improvisation, spatial awareness, memorization, teamwork, and public speaking/facing fears.
Dance
Campers will be taught the basic elements of movement, body, space, effort, and relationship awareness through various dance styles such as Line Dances, Ballroom/Social Dances, Folk Dances, and Contemporary Dances. Campers will be given the opportunity to perform for their peers.
Cooking
Our very own Head Chef teaches campers some of our favorite recipes and leads them through the preparation and cooking process. Campers will make and eat their own culinary creations such as muffins, cookies and calzones.
Candle Making
With multiple colors to choose from, campers form their personalized candle by dipping wicks into wax. They can even carve and shape their creation, adding more unique features. This is a good opportunity to learn patience, and provide an outlet for self-expression. Campers get to take their candles home.
Arts & Crafts
Arts programs can include crafts from the Pioneer era, the Native American or foreign culture, or those which help to recognize and appreciate the beauty in nature. Candle-dipping and making dream-catchers are popular choices, as well as upcycle creations. We also have duct-tape crafts and t-shirt tie-dye as part of our typical repertoire.
Evening Programs
Ice Cream Social
A fun way to enjoy your friends and create an ice cream sundae! Additional Cost: $2.50 per sundae.
Glow Swing
Add a little extra to this exhilarating daytime activity by doing it in the dark with glow sticks! Wearing a harness, a participant is connected to a cable in the trees. A team belay pulls the participant up to their desired height, up to 35 feet. When ready, they pull the ripcord and swing. This […]
Floodlight Archery
Enjoy this fun activity at night! Participants learn proper safety and shooting techniques under the close supervision of our trained and certified staff. We review safety, equipment, posture, and purpose as participants practice and develop their shooting abilities while exercising their body and mind.
Discover the Night
This is best in complete darkness; no flashlights, please! Experience the night in a whole new way as you explore the forest in complete darkness. Look at the stars, “talk” to owls and test your senses. Includes an “electric” finale. It helps calm fears and heighten awareness.
Campfire
Enjoy songs, stories, skits, and s’mores around a warm, inviting fire. Our camp staff is available to emcee and perform, or we can light it and leave you to it. We encourage participants to perform.