Camp Countdown:
Top of the Pines campers live, play and learn together in small groups called bunks, consisting of no more than eight campers placed together based on their age and interests. Each bunk group has its own counselor who attends all bunk activities and provides constant and consistent care and attention. Age group divisions ensure that campers are placed with children of their own age and experience a program matched to their interests year after year.
At Camp TOP, the daily schedule is geared specifically to each age group and designed to introduce campers to new challenges and ensure cherished memories for a lifetime. A day at TOP provides a balance of activities including intensive classroom time and outdoors activities. There are numerous opportunities to develop friendships.
Location
Camp Top of the Pines is located off of the Palisades Interstate Parkway in Harriman State Park, New York. It is a 35-minute drive from the George Washington Bridge. We believe that all children should have the opportunity to experience nature and learn about their environment while participating in a well-rounded camp experience. Camp TOP offers a nurturing setting conducive to learning and sharing. Camp TOP is located on over 500 protected acres in a nature preserve. We have over 25 indoor buildings, which can accommodate over 300 campers in inclement weather.
Participants
Camp TOP is available to children entering first through eighth grades. Campers are placed in small groups of up to eight children, based on their age and gender.
Program Structure and Activities
Camp TOP strives to improve skills and self-confidence while keeping campers active and focused throughout the summer months. Typical Camp activities include: arts and crafts, games, challenge course, camp-outs, nature, boating, hiking and fishing. Two activity periods are devoted each day to swimming. One period is focuses on swim lessons and the other is an afternoon recreational swim. All waterfront activities are conducted by certified American Red Cross Swim Instructors and Lifeguards.
Program Staff
The TOP Camp staff is mature, dedicated individuals who are committed to providing a safe, fun and educational environment for your child. Staff is carefully selected and screened and is closely supervised by trained camp professionals. Our supervisory staff is all over 21.The typical counselor at Camp TOP is over 19 years old and has experience in working with children. All counselors participate in a week-long training to prepare them for the important job of looking after each child’s physical and emotional safety. There is medical staff on Camp in our Health Center to deal with any medical problems that may arise while your child is on the camp grounds. A current medical form and physical is required for each child.
Specialist Staff
In addition to the regular program staff, Camp TOP utilizes the expertise of a series of trained professionals in specialty areas, including Boating, Arts and Crafts, Ropes Courses, Hiking, Nature Studies, Cook-Outs and Campfires.
Enrollment & Fees
For Camp TOP registration information, please call 973-838-0942 or 212-765-4420, ext. 1412, or send an e-mail to sandi@vacamas.org.
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