Summer camp for 5th & 6th graders 10-12 year olds near Mount Arlington
Senior campers ages 10–12 enjoy a full schedule of engaging activities designed for their age group at Tamarack Day Camp. These campers take part in a variety of structured programs that encourage teamwork, independence, and new friendships. A highlight of the summer is the popular day trip to Camelbeach, where campers spend the day enjoying water attractions and group activities in a supervised setting.
Many families who choose Tamarack Day Camp come from Mount Arlington and nearby communities. The camp is located near Mount Arlington, making it a convenient option for parents looking for a well-organized summer experience for older elementary campers.
Senior campers at Tamarack Day Camp have access to a wider range of activities and expanded Choice options that allow them to explore their interests and try new challenges throughout the summer. These opportunities are designed for older campers who are ready for more independence and variety in their daily schedule.
One of the most anticipated experiences for this age group is Senior Late Nights. On select evenings, campers stay later for a structured night at camp that includes dinner, extended swim time, group games, and special activities planned just for them. The evening ends with a campfire where campers gather together to make S’mores and enjoy time with their friends.
Many families choose Tamarack Day Camp because it is located near Mount Arlington, NJ, making it a convenient option for parents in Mount Arlington and nearby communities looking for engaging programs for older campers.
Senior Athletics
Athletics are a major part of the experience for older campers at Tamarack Day Camp. Campers take part in a variety of organized sports each week, including soccer, football, pickleball, lacrosse, archery, basketball, hockey, skateboarding, and mountain biking. Activities take place across the camp’s large fields and activity areas, giving campers plenty of space to learn and play. Athletic specialists lead each session, focusing on skill development, practice drills, and structured games that help campers apply what they learn.
Instruction is adapted to each camper’s ability level. Beginners receive clear guidance as they learn the basics, while more experienced campers work on strengthening their techniques and understanding of the game. Whether a child is learning to ride a bike for the first time or improving their performance in team sports, Tamarack Specialists provide consistent support and coaching.
Counselors participate in activities alongside the campers and work closely with the specialists throughout the day. This approach keeps campers engaged and helps create a supportive setting where children can build confidence and enjoy being active with their peers.
Families looking for strong athletic programming often choose Tamarack Day Camp because it is located near Mount Arlington, NJ, making it a convenient option for parents in Mount Arlington and nearby communities with children ages 10–12.
Creative Arts
Creative arts are an important part of the experience at Tamarack Day Camp. Older campers take part in a wide range of hands-on activities inside dedicated Arts Studios with air-conditioned classrooms and instruction from experienced art specialists. Throughout the week, campers rotate through creative programs such as ceramics, music, cooking, drama, nature exploration, Camper vs. Wild activities, dance, digital photography, jewelry making, and computer-based projects. Each activity is designed to give campers the opportunity to try different forms of creativity, learn new techniques, and express their ideas.
Instruction is guided by skilled instructors who help campers develop their abilities step by step. Campers work on individual and group projects, practice new skills, and build confidence as they explore different artistic interests during the summer.
Dance and performance are also an important part of the arts program. Senior girl groups prepare dance routines that are performed in the annual Dance and Drama Production during the sixth week of camp. This event takes place at a local venue with professional sound and lighting, giving campers the opportunity to perform on stage in front of family and friends.
Many families choose Tamarack Day Camp because it offers these creative programs near Mount Arlington, NJ, providing a convenient option for parents in Mount Arlington and surrounding communities who want their children to explore art, performance, and creative expression.
Learn to Swim
Swimming is a central part of the daily schedule at Tamarack Day Camp, and the Learn to Swim Program plays an important role in the experience for older campers. Lessons take place in a modern aquatic facility that includes a pool with eight 25-meter lanes, giving campers plenty of space for instruction and practice.
Each morning, campers participate in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified instructors, with group counselors present in the water and on deck. Lessons are organized by skill level rather than age, allowing each swimmer to work on the techniques that match their current ability. Beginners focus on building water confidence and learning basic strokes, while more experienced swimmers continue improving their form, endurance, and overall technique.
Tamarack Day Camp instructors complete annual training and follow teaching methods based on American Red Cross standards, supported by more than 25 years of experience teaching children how to swim. This structured approach helps campers develop strong swimming skills while remaining safe and comfortable in the water.
In the afternoon, campers return to the pool for supervised Free Swim. This time allows them to practice what they learned during lessons and enjoy the water with their friends as part of the daily camp routine.
Families often choose Tamarack Day Camp because it offers a structured swim program near Mount Arlington, NJ, providing a convenient option for parents in Mount Arlington and nearby communities who want their children to build confidence and ability in the water.
Ropes Courses
Adventure activities are a popular part of the experience for older campers at Tamarack Day Camp. Campers take part in a ropes program that includes a 200-foot zipline, vertical and horizontal climbing walls, and a giant swing. These activities give campers the opportunity to challenge themselves, build confidence, and work through new physical goals in a structured setting.
For campers who want an added challenge, the High Ropes course provides elevated elements that require balance, focus, and teamwork. Older campers can also participate in Tamarack’s long-standing Repel School, where they learn more advanced climbing and rappelling techniques under the guidance of trained instructors.
Safety is a central part of every ropes activity. The courses are inspected before each season by the same company that built them, and certified ropes instructors perform daily safety checks. Campers receive clear instructions and are guided step-by-step through each element to ensure they understand proper equipment use and procedures.
Choice
Choice Camp gives older campers at Tamarack Day Camp the opportunity to take a more active role in planning their daily schedule. Campers ages 10–12 select activities throughout the week from a rotating list of options. New choices are introduced regularly, allowing campers to try different programs and explore their interests while staying engaged throughout the summer.
Options include a mix of athletics, creative arts, and specialty activities, giving campers the flexibility to participate in the programs they enjoy most. This structure encourages independence while still maintaining a well-organized daily schedule guided by counselors and specialists.
Senior campers also have the opportunity to take part in Tamarack’s annual Dance and Drama Production. Those who choose to participate spend time practicing their routines or scenes with instructors and fellow campers. These performances become a highlight of the event, as seniors take the stage to present what they have prepared during the summer.
Social Development
