At Fairview Lake YMCA Camps, we've been giving kids the summer of their lives since 1915. Nestled on a beautiful lake just outside Newton, NJ, our five overnight programs are designed for campers entering grades 2–11 — each one built around friendship, growth, and the kind of adventures that stay with you forever. Whether your child is a first-time camper or a returning veteran, there's a place here for them.
Find the Right Program
Every camper is different. Here's a quick look at our five overnight programs — click any one to learn more.
Traditional Camp
Entering Grades 2-10
The classic Fairview Lake experience — waterfront, cabins, campfires, and more activities than any camper can fit into a summer.
Three times a day, campers gather in the Dining Hall to refuel and reconnect. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served family-style with plenty of options, including vegetarian choices and accommodations for dietary needs. And the Trading Post? That's where campers grab a daily snack and browse camp gear between activities.
Cabins
Campers sleep in cozy cabins with their bunkmates and two counselors — each with its own bathroom, electricity, and enough personality to feel like home by day two. Our cabins are grouped into units by age and grade, so your child will always be with kids their own age.
Adventure Trip and CIT campers stay in their own cabins too, just without electricity, with shared bathhouses nearby, and a tighter-knit group of eight. It's a small step closer to the backcountry that fits perfectly with what those programs are all about.
Safe on the Water, Confident in It Too
Fairview Lake is exactly what it sounds like, and the waterfront is at the heart of camp life. From our giant Mountain Slide and new Iceberg to sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, and kayaking, there is no shortage of ways to make the most of our lake. It's where some of the best camp memories get made.
Every camper is assessed on arrival so we know exactly where they are as a swimmer before they ever set foot on the dock. From there, campers swim in a designated area matched to their ability level, so everyone is challenged appropriately and no one is in over their head. Our waterfront is staffed by American Red Cross certified Waterfront Lifeguards and Water Safety Instructors who are on duty any time campers are near the water.
Camp Nurse
Your child's health and safety is our top priority.
A licensed nurse is on-site throughout the summer, and all campers are required to be up to date on vaccinations before arriving at camp.
Our Staff
The People Behind the Magic
Our counselors come from across the country and around the world, bringing diverse backgrounds, talents, and perspectives to camp every summer. Most are college students or recent graduates who are passionate about working with kids, and many are Fairview Lake alumni who grew up here and chose to come back.
Every staff member goes through a thorough hiring process that includes background checks, reference checks, and in-person interviews before they ever set foot on camp. Once they arrive, counselors complete a week or more of intensive training covering child development, safety protocols, and Praesidium-accredited child protection standards before campers arrive.
Many of our activity staff hold nationally recognized certifications in their areas — including American Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguarding, USA Archery instructor certification, and climbing and high ropes instruction. When your child is on the water, at the range, or on the wall, they are in qualified hands.
Almost every first-time camper feels a pull toward home at some point during the summer. That's completely normal, and our staff are trained to recognize it and respond with warmth, distraction, and patience. In most cases, a little time, a new friend, and a fun activity is all it takes.
If we ever feel a camper needs more support, we'll reach out to families directly — you'll never be left wondering how your child is doing. In the meantime, we encourage everyone to keep the connection going the old-fashioned way: write letters. Campers love getting mail, and putting pen to paper is a great way for families to stay close without breaking the magic of a screen-free summer. Trust your camper. They are more capable than you might expect.
The Gift of a Screen-Free Summer
At Fairview Lake, campers leave their phones, tablets, and screens at home, and something remarkable happens. Without the pull of notifications and social media, kids rediscover what it feels like to be imaginative, adventurous, and fully present. They make real friends, take real risks, and come home as a slightly different and better version of themselves.
What Our Families Say About Camp!
"My son loves everything about Fairview Lake. He is always so happy when he comes home, and full of stories!"
Julia K., Camp Parent
Traditional Camp
"My son has consistently had a great summer experience at Fairview Lake, and always asks to go back for longer the next summer!"
Elizabeth C., Camp Parent
Traditional Camp
"Our kids come home every year more confident, with new friends and memories. It is such a special community and we look forward to their adventures every summer!"
Noreen G., Camp Parent
Specialty Camp
"My daughter had an amazing time. She enjoyed the instructors and fell in love with her beautiful horse. Now I have to find extra money for lessons!!😩😩😁 But 10/10. Thank you"
Florence W., Camp Parent
Ranch Camp
"My child had a wonderful experience and created memories that she will be talking about for years to come!"
Peter M., Camp Parent
Traditional Camp
"My kiddo loves ranch camp so much! It has been a wonderful opportunity for my child to be around horses, and they have really thrived under the guidance of the counselors. Highly recommend!"
Karina G., Camp Parent
Ranch Camp
"ETC was my first experience for a sleep away camp. There are activities throughout the day. From hiking, canoeing, ax throwing and making new friends from literally all over the world."
Nicole N., Camp Parent
Adventure Trips
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.
You can help make the magic of camp possible for every child by supporting our Annual Support Campaign. Your donation provides financial assistance to families in need, ensuring that every camper has the chance to learn, grow, and thrive at Fairview Lake YMCA Camps. Together, we can make sure no one is turned away due to the inability to pay—because camp is for everyone.
