Group experiences that renew your purpose and your people.
Fairview Lake YMCA Camps offers meaningful retreat experiences for groups of all kinds — designed to foster connection, reflection, and community in the great outdoors. Whether you're planning a church retreat, youth group weekend, wellness workshop, or team-building experience, our camp provides the perfect setting to unplug from the everyday and reconnect with what matters most.
Led by our caring staff and grounded in the Y’s core values, each retreat offers space to grow, breathe, and build lasting bonds — all just a short drive away, but a world apart.
Group Types
At Fairview Lake YMCA Camps, we believe that everyone belongs at camp. Whether you're here to grow in faith, build your team, celebrate a milestone, or simply connect with nature and each other — our doors (and trails, and cabins, and campfires) are open wide.
We welcome groups of all kinds, all year long. With customizable programs, comfortable accommodations, and a setting that inspires connection, your time at camp will be more than just a retreat — it’ll be a memory that lasts.
Explore the types of groups we serve and find the perfect fit for your next unforgettable getaway.
-
Custom & Special Interest Groups
Your vision. Our space. Endless possibilities.
No two groups are the same — and that’s what makes our camp the perfect place for you. Whether you’re organizing a LARP weekend, hosting a crafting or photography retreat, bringing together a homeschool co-op, or planning something completely out of the box, we’re ready to help you bring your unique event to life. With a variety of lodging, meeting spaces, and activities to choose from, our team works closely with you to shape an experience that fits your group’s personality, purpose, and pace. If you can dream it, we can host it.
-
Faith-Based Groups
Gather in grace. Grow in faith.
Surrounded by nature’s beauty, Fairview Lake is a sacred space for connection, reflection, and renewal. We welcome churches, youth ministries, spiritual organizations, and interfaith groups to gather, worship, and grow here. Whether you're planning a weekend retreat, youth rally, mission-focused experience, or leadership getaway, we offer the facilities, program support, and peaceful environment to support your faith journey. Quiet moments on the lake, fireside fellowship, and community-building activities bring groups closer together—and closer to what matters.
-
Youth Serving Organizations
Empowering young people to lead, learn, and thrive.
Young people thrive here. Our campus is designed to support groups that put youth first—Scouts, Adventure Guides, Former Adventure Guides, teams, outdoor clubs, and more. With opportunities for environmental education, leadership development, teambuilding, and classic camp activities, we help you create experiences that build confidence, teamwork, and life-long memories. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for the weekend, we’re here to support your mission to serve kids.
Looking to plan a school field trip? Visit our Environmental Education page for more information.
-
Celebrations
Celebrate big moments in a place that feels like home.
Life’s milestones deserve a setting as special as the moment. From family reunions and anniversaries to birthday parties and meaningful gatherings of all kinds, Fairview Lake is a one-of-a-kind place to celebrate. You’ll have access to beautiful cabins, indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, and plenty of fun activities—think boating, hiking, campfires, and more. Bring your people together for something joyful, low-stress, and completely unforgettable.
-
Colleges & Universities
Unplug. Reflect. Reconnect.
When campus life needs a change of scenery, head to Fairview Lake. Our location offers the perfect setting for student leadership retreats, orientation weekends, Greek life getaways, club outings, and team-building trips. Get outside the classroom and into the woods—where students can reflect, reconnect, and re-energize through shared challenges, campfire chats, and time in nature. With flexible meeting spaces, group lodging, and activity options ranging from paddleboarding to public speaking workshops, we’ll help your group achieve its goals and grow together. -
Corporate & Professional Groups
Build your team. Break from the ordinary.
Get out of the office and into an environment that inspires connection, creativity, and collaboration. Whether you’re planning a team-building retreat, leadership training, board meeting, or company celebration, Fairview Lake offers a unique venue that encourages fresh thinking and stronger relationships. Our staff can help build a custom experience that combines your agenda with moments of fun, reflection, and outdoor adventure. It’s a professional retreat — the YMCA way.
-
Adult & Wellness Retreats
Breathe deep. Be well. Belong.
Everyone deserves time to recharge. Whether your group focuses on yoga, mindfulness, journaling, outdoor adventure, or creative expression, Fairview Lake offers the ideal setting for rest and renewal. Nestled in the natural beauty of New Jersey’s northwest corner, our facilities and staff support a wide range of wellness-focused programs. Share meals together, try something new, or simply take a walk by the lake. It’s your time to breathe deeply, connect with others, and grow in body, mind, and spirit.
Interested in an adult program run by Fairview Lake? Click Here!
Faith-Based Groups
Gather in grace. Grow in faith.
Surrounded by nature’s beauty, Fairview Lake is a sacred space for connection, reflection, and renewal. We welcome churches, youth ministries, spiritual organizations, and interfaith groups to gather, worship, and grow here. Whether you're planning a weekend retreat, youth rally, mission-focused experience, or leadership getaway, we offer the facilities, program support, and peaceful environment to support your faith journey. Quiet moments on the lake, fireside fellowship, and community-building activities bring groups closer together—and closer to what matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here you can find some of the most common questions we receive.
Select an option below:
- Planning & Booking
- Lodging, Facilities and Meals
- Activities & Programs
- Logistics & Safety
- Virtual Tour
-
How far in advance should I book a group stay?
We begin booking groups 12 months in advance of their arrival date, with priority to returning group. While we prefer that you book with us as soon as possible, we will work with last minute groups to get you to camp!
Please note that from about June 15-August 20 we have limited availability for overnight groups as we are a sleepaway summer camp!
-
Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Generally we can accommodate groups of 10-250 people for overnight stays, and up to 350 for day trips. If your group is larger (or smaller!) than that, reach out to see if we can make it work.
For exclusive use of the facility, we require a guaranteed minimum of 250 people.
-
What types of groups do you host?
We host youth groups, schools, religious organizations, LGBTQ+ groups, sports teams, corporate retreats, family reunions, scouting troops, volunteer weekends—you name it! If your group values community, nature, and shared experiences, you’ll feel right at home.
Virtual Tour
Check out camp on an incredible summer day! Our virtual tour highlights many of our activities, cabins and more!
-
Are meals included? What's the food like?
Absolutely! Our dining hall serves nutritious, kid-friendly, and group-pleasing meals. When booking your trip, you can select which meals you'd like to enjoy at camp. We accommodate most dietary needs with advance notice—including vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals.
-
Can we bring our own food or snacks?
You’re welcome to bring packaged snacks for group use. Groups staying in the seasonal units may bring grills or cook over a campfire.
As we do not have a Kosher kitchen, catering services can be brought to camp. For health and safety, groups and catering services may not use our kitchen.
-
What are the lodging options for groups?
The year-round side of Fairview Lake YMCA Camps has three winterized cabin units and a large lodge. These cabins have indoor bathrooms with flush toilets and showers, heat, and electricity.
The seasonal side Fairview Lake YMCA Camps has three cabin units available for groups. Seasonal cabins are open in the Spring, Summer and Fall only. Each unit has its own bath house with electrical outlets. Each unit also has its own fire pit for campfires and cooking. We also have room for tent camping.
Group leaders are responsible for assigning cabins and groups planing on camping must provide their own tents.
Camp does not provide linens.
-
What kinds of activities are available for groups?
From canoeing and archery to team-building challenges and campfires, we offer dozens of camp-style activities year-round. Your group can opt for self-guided time or a fully facilitated program customized to your goals.
-
Do you offer guided programs or facilitators?
Yes! Our staff can lead environmental education, outdoor adventure, team-building workshops, and more. Let us know what you're aiming for—fun, reflection, leadership, learning—and we’ll build something special.
-
Can we plan our own schedule?
Of course! Some groups prefer to run their own programs, while others ask us to coordinate. Either way, we’ll work closely with you to create a schedule that fits your vision.
-
What’s the check-in/check-out process like?
For weekend groups, check in is typically after 5pm on Friday night. Your cabin will be open and clean for your arrival. Guests should eat dinner before they arrive.
Depending on your schedule, check out is typically after your last meal.
For day groups, your arrival time will be determined by the start time of your first activity.
-
What if it rains or the weather changes?
We plan for all weather! Many of our programs can be adapted for indoor spaces or sheltered areas. Plus, we always have backup activities up our sleeve.
Please remind your group members to pack appropriately for the weather, including a raincoat and extra pair of shoes on rainy days.
-
What safety measures are in place?
Your group’s safety is our top priority. Our staff are trained on safety procedures for all activities, and lifeguards are present for all water-based activities. We maintain emergency protocols, and are always in contact with local services if needed.
Please note that we do not employ a nurse or other health care professional year round.
If your group has specific security questions, please reach out to camp.
Request Information
The weekend was magical for the families. Personally, I think the rain made it extra special. I was amazed by how Maya and her team handled everything, even adjusting activities to match the rainfall pattern. Their efforts made sure that the families had a fantastic time throughout the weekend.
It's a great place for the whole family. Great food, great attractions and the people who becoming friends.It's the place where you can relax and be active at the same time.It's the place where you keep coming back.
Staff is phenomenal!!!!!
The facilities were wonderful and staff was friendly!!
10/10
Flexible schedule, friendly and accommodating staff, lots of activities but not too much to over schedule! Food is good, lots of options for all diets/restrictions. Cabins are clean and spacious.
Maya and her team were wonderful and really accommodating. The teens had a great time and enjoyed the bunk experience. We will definitely be back!
-
How long is a typical field trip?
Most trips range from one to four days. We work with your schedule to build a program that fits your needs.
-
Where are you located?
Fairview Lake YMCA Camps is located in Sussex County, New Jersey in the beautiful town of Stillwater. We are 15 minutes from the county seat of Newton, and just 90 minutes from New York City. Camp is nestled right next to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Our 660-acre property includes a private lake, forested trails, and direct access to one of the Northeast’s most stunning natural landscapes. It’s the perfect setting for outdoor learning, discovery, and adventure—all just a short drive away.
-
What is the student-to-staff ratio?
We ask that schools provide a 1:10 ratio of chaperones or teachers to students, and that students are put into groups of about 20. Each group will have a staff member to lead them through activities.
-
What are the sleeping accommodations like?
Students and chaperones stay in clean, heated cabins with bunk beds. Fairview Lake staff live on-site and are on-call overnight.
-
What's the food like?
Meals provided by camp are nutritious and kid friendly! We can accommodate most dietary needs with advanced notice. Schools can also elect to bring a bagged lunch for their trip.
When you are planning a trip, ask about adding on a snack, ice cream social or s'mores!
-
Do Fairview Lake staff supervise students overnight?
No, schools are responsible for the supervision of their students at all times.
-
What safety measures are in place?
Fairview Lake staff are trained to safely facilitate programs, and hold appropriate certifications as required.
To learn more about how Fairview Lake protects children from child abuse, click here.
-
What is your policy on weather?
We run programs rain or shine, adjusting activities for safety. We have indoor spaces and backup plans if needed.
Please remind students and chaperones to pack appropriately for the weather, including bringing extra shoes and a raincoat!
-
Is there cellphone service or wifi?
Cell service is limited, but staff and teachers have access to phones and Wi-Fi for emergencies or school communication.
-
What is the cost per student?
Prices vary based on trip length and activities. We’re happy to provide a detailed quote for your school. Through the generous support of our donors, we are able to offer schools financial assistance based on the number of students receiving free or reduced lunch. Please ask for more details!
-
How do we book a trip?
Please reach out to our team to discuss your dates, group size, and goals. We’ll walk you through every step of planning and preparation.
Who to contact:
Julie Thomas, Year Round Program Director Email or phone 973-383-9282
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.
Make Camp Possible
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.
Custom & Special Interest Groups
Your vision. Our space. Endless possibilities.
No two groups are the same — and that’s what makes our camp the perfect place for you. Whether you’re organizing a LARP weekend, hosting a crafting or photography retreat, bringing together a homeschool co-op, or planning something completely out of the box, we’re ready to help you bring your unique event to life. With a variety of lodging, meeting spaces, and activities to choose from, our team works closely with you to shape an experience that fits your group’s personality, purpose, and pace. If you can dream it, we can host it.
Youth Serving Organizations
Empowering young people to lead, learn, and thrive.
Young people thrive here. Our campus is designed to support groups that put youth first—Scouting troop and packs, Adventure Guides, former Adventure Guides, outdoor clubs, and more. With opportunities for environmental education, leadership development, high-ropes adventures, and classic camp activities, we help you create experiences that build confidence, teamwork, and life-long memories. We're happy to support your mission to serve kids.
Colleges & Universities
Unplug. Reflect. Reconnect.
When campus life needs a change of scenery, head to Fairview Lake. Our location offers the perfect setting for student leadership retreats, orientation weekends, Greek life getaways, club outings, and team-building trips. Get outside the classroom and into the woods—where students can reflect, reconnect, and re-energize through shared challenges, campfire chats, and time in nature. With flexible meeting spaces, group lodging, and activity options ranging from paddleboarding to public speaking workshops, we’ll help your group achieve its goals and grow together.
Corporate & Professional Groups
Build your team. Break from the ordinary.
Get out of the office and into an environment that inspires connection, creativity, and collaboration. Whether you’re planning a team-building retreat, leadership training, board meeting, or company celebration, Fairview Lake offers a unique venue that encourages fresh thinking and stronger relationships. Our staff can help build a custom experience that combines your agenda with moments of fun, reflection, and outdoor adventure. It’s a professional retreat — the YMCA way.