Sponsored by BRS Backyard Bug Busters ›New Jersey's beloved sleepaway camp where kids swim, explore nature, and grow on 250 wild acres in West Milford.
Tucked into 250 acres of New Jersey woodland along Macopin Road in West Milford, Camp Vacamas has been turning summers into something kids actually talk about when school starts again. Rated 4.5 stars by families who've sent their children here, this isn't a resort with a pool and a schedule. It's a place where kids get muddy, make real friends, and figure out who they are when screens aren't around.
The camp sits on land that practically begs to be explored. Swimming, hiking, and hands-on outdoor activities fill the days, and the 250-acre property means there's always somewhere new to discover. Cabins are rustic by design, some open-air, which is part of the character. Families who want their kids to experience a genuine outdoor environment rather than a polished resort setting will find exactly that here.
Camp Vacamas operates under the Hi4Y youth development mission, meaning the program is built around more than just fun. Leadership, community, and personal growth are woven into every activity. For parents searching for a sleepaway experience that challenges kids in the best possible way, this is the camp that delivers.
The core of a Camp Vacamas summer is outdoor living done right. Swimming takes center stage, with water activities on the property giving kids daily time in the water. Nature exploration across the wooded acreage teaches kids to read trails, respect ecosystems, and build confidence in environments that don't come with guardrails.
Beyond the outdoors, the program includes classic sleepaway camp activities: team sports, creative arts, campfire traditions, and the kind of unstructured social time that actually builds friendships. Cabin life encourages kids to live alongside peers from different backgrounds, which is a core part of the Hi4Y philosophy.
The camp is designed for kids who are ready to spend real time away from home, building independence day by day. Sessions run through the summer, and the 250-acre setting means activities never feel crowded or repetitive. Parents looking for structured overnight programming with genuine outdoor depth will find the combination here.
Take a look at our space and what we have to offer
“It is a great camp for kids to spend the summer and experience nature, swimming, and youthful activities on 250 acres.”
— Rocky Hazelman
Don't just take our word for it - hear from our satisfied customers
Camp Vacamas is designed for school-age children looking for a full sleepaway camp experience. Contact the camp directly through hi4y.org for specific age group breakdowns and session eligibility.
Swimming is a daily staple, and the 250-acre property supports hiking, nature exploration, team sports, creative arts, and traditional campfire activities. The program is built to keep kids active and engaged throughout their stay.
Some cabins are open-air without full doors, which is part of the camp's rustic outdoor character. If your child requires a fully enclosed sleeping space, reach out to the camp team before registering to discuss available options.
The camp is located at 256 Macopin Road in West Milford, NJ 07480, in one of New Jersey's most scenic outdoor regions, surrounded by forests, trails, and natural water features.
Registration is handled through the official Camp Vacamas and Hi4Y website at hi4y.org/sleepaway-camps. Session dates, availability, and enrollment details are listed there.
Yes. Camp Vacamas operates under Hi4Y, a youth development organization whose mission focuses on building leadership, community, and personal growth in young people alongside recreational programming.
A full packing list is provided upon registration through hi4y.org. Given the outdoor and rustic nature of the camp, durable clothing, sturdy footwear, and rain gear are strongly recommended.
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