Question 1

What does a day look like at camp?

Accepted Answer

Sample schedule (programming changes slightly depending on the day):  7:00 am - Wake up, Polar Bear Swim, Get ready for the day8:00 am - Breakfast8:45 am - Rise and Shine (morning worship)9:30 am - Discovery Time (Bible study)10:30 am - Weeklong Activity PeriodNoon - Lunch1:00 pm - Rest Hour 2:00 pm - Activity Period (camper self-selects daily)3:00 pm - Camp Store (snack & free time)4:00 pm - Intentional Cabin Time5:30 pm - Dinner6:30 pm - Evening Worship7:30 pm - Evening Program/All Camp Game!8:30 pm - Get ready for bed10:00 pm - Bedtime!

Question 2

How do I know when my child is ready for camp?

Accepted Answer

Your child will likely be ready for camp sooner than you might think!Our Youth Camp experience is designed to start with campers who have finished 2nd grade. Camp provides an excellent opportunity for young individuals to start developing independence and self-reliance.

Question 3

Why does Cross Roads have a 'No Cellphone' policy?

Accepted Answer

Cross Roads has implemented a 'No Cellphone' policy for several important reasons, and we encourage parents to support this decision. Maintaining a sense of presence: We believe campers benefit from being fully engaged in the camp experience without distractions from electronic devices.Fostering healthy development: In cases of homesickness, contacting home can hinder the natural social-emotional growth that occurs at camp. Camp provides a secure environment where young individuals receive support and tools to navigate their emotions. Balancing screen time: Given the prevalence of electronic devices in our daily lives, we view camp as an opportunity for campers to take a break from constant connectivity and overstimulation.Minimizing social media overwhelm: The constant connection through social media can be overwhelming, and we aim to provide a reprieve from this constant digital presence during the camp experience.

Question 4

Will my camper be safe?

Accepted Answer

Your child’s safety is our number one priority. This commitment encompasses their physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being. To prepare our staff adequately, we conduct extensive training several weeks before our summer programs begin.Cross Roads holds accreditation from the American Camp Association (ACA), an organization that sets rigorous standards for various aspects of the camp experience, further ensuring a secure environment for all campers.

Question 5

Will my child be able to make friends?

Accepted Answer

We are intentional about building community and creating programs that foster the development of healthy relationships. Our devoted staff is committed to ensuring a positive experience for every camper, fostering an environment where friendships can naturally develop.

Question 6

My child needs their downtime to “recharge.”  How do you address different kinds of personality needs?

Accepted Answer

Although the camp schedule is quite full, we are intentional about scheduling a variety of times throughout the day that allow our campers to have choices and agency. Campers have the option of free seating during meal times.During Activity periods, campers self-select something that interests them. Campers also have time to “recharge” during Camp Store, where they eat snacks and have free time.

Question 7

What if my child gets homesick?

Accepted Answer

It’s entirely normal for children to feel homesick at camp, and our staff is well-trained to assist campers as they navigate these emotions. While it’s understandable to want to reassure your child, phrases like “If you’re not having a good time I will come and pick you up,” inadvertently hinder their ability to work through challenging feelings.Camp provides a supportive and secure environment where campers can healthily process fear and separation.

Question 8

“How religious is it?” “Cross Roads is an Episcopal/Lutheran partnership… will my kid fit in if they are not religious?”

Accepted Answer

We are an intentional faith community where we celebrate the rich diversity of God’s people! Cross Roads is an ecumenical ministry, and we believe camp is a great opportunity to explore scripture and faith. We prioritize helping young people to know that they are loved unconditionally.Our mission is to help young people grow in their relationship with God, who created them perfectly (with all their imperfections).

Question 9

What if I need to bring my child to camp late or pick them up early?

Accepted Answer

Our programs are intentionally designed, from the moment they arrive at camp to their final goodbyes. To get the most out of the experience, we believe it is important for them to experience every stage of the camp program.Any interruptions to the camp program need to be discussed before your camper arrives at camp.

Question 10

How do I best prepare my child to have a successful and positive experience at camp?

Accepted Answer

Your perspective and attitude as a parent/caregiver make a big difference! Please use phrases like “You get to go to camp!” rather than “We’re sending you to camp,” to make the transition much more positive. Camp is fun and life-changing!Download Welcome Packet

Question 11

What is the camper/counselor ratio?

Accepted Answer

Our camper-to-counselor ratios adhere to the guidelines set by the American Camp Association and the State of New Jersey. Cross Roads requires the following ratios of adults (staff members ages 18+) to children:Camper AgeNumber of StaffOvernight CampersDaytime Campers 4-5 years1566-8 years1689-14 years181015-18 years11012In addition, all staff members are required to use the “Rule of 3”—there must never be less than 3 adults/children together in a secluded area. This rule protects children in your group from possible abuse, as well as protects adults in your group from accusations of inappropriate conduct.Staff members are required to be present during ALL program activities to provide supervision.

Question 12

What do the cabins look like? Is there electricity in the cabins?

Accepted Answer

There is electricity in the cabins! Take a look at our cabins or come visit us!Follow us on social media for open house dates or other opportunities to engage with camp.

SUMMER CAMP

“TO GOD - WHOSE POWER NOW AT WORK IN US CAN DO IMMEASURABLY MORE THAN WE ASK OR IMAGINE” — Ephesians 3:20

JULY 4-10

YOUTH CAMP 1

CONGREGATIONAL CAMP WEEK

HIGH SCHOOL WEEK

JULY 10-11

*HOLDOVER WEEKEND A

JULY 11-17

YOUTH CAMP 2

ADVENTURE CAMP

LEADERSHIP LAB

JULY 18-24

YOUTH CAMP 3

LIT (Week 1)

SEEK (Week 1)

JULY 24-25

*HOLDOVER WEEKEND B

JULY 25-31

YOUTH CAMP 4

LIT (Week 2)

SEEK (Week 2)

AUGUST 1-7

YOUTH CAMP 5

LIT (Week 3)

AUGUST 9-13

FAMILY CAMP WEEK

AUGUST 13-15

FAMILY CAMP WEEKEND

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS