Welcome to a day at DEAN Camps, where every moment is an opportunity for fun, learning, and exploration.

Here's a snapshot of our action-packed schedule:

• 7:30 am - 9:00 am: Flexible Morning Drop-off & 
  • 7:30 - 8:30 Full Breakfast served, hot and cold options provided
• 8:30 - 9:00 Begin transitioning to Morning Assembly
• 9:00 am - 9:15 am: Morning Assembly
• 9:15 am - 10:30 am: First Activity Period
• 10:30 am - 10:45 am: Snack & Outside Break (weather permitting)
• 10:45 am - 12:00 pm: Second Activity Period
• 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm: Lunch & Recess Break
• 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm: Third Activity Period
• 2:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Snack & Outside Break (weather permitting)
• 2:15 pm - 3:15 pm: Final Activity Period
• 3:15 pm - 3:30 pm: Clean Up & End of Day Closing
• 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm: Flexible Pick Up + DEAN Zone Activities
  • Field games, crafts, snacks, quiet zone for reading, board games & more!

Get ready for a day full of adventure and discovery at DEAN!

We request full payment upfront, which can be made using:

• Major credit cards (a 3% administrative fee applies)
• ACH transfers (no additional fee)
• E-checks (no additional fee)

Need Financial Assistance?

We understand that flexibility is key. If you need more time or require assistance due to financial hardship, please reach out to us at deanteam@deancamps.com or give our office a call at, 610-660-9600. We're committed to supporting your needs and will gladly discuss payment plan options or possibly other accommodations that fit your circumstances.

Cancellations

We understand that plans can change. Here's our flexible refund policy:

• Until June 1: Refunds, minus a $100 fee per program. For example, if you've registered for 2 programs, your refund will be the total amount minus $200.
• After June 1: Fees become non-refundable. But don't worry! You can change your camper's program selection at no additional cost, provided the total number of sessions and weekly session cost remain the same. If a desired change isn't possible due to program capacity, we'll issue a credit to your file with no expiration date that can be used for future programs or transferred to another camper's account.

Scheduling Changes

We are here to help you and your family determine the schedule that works best for you. If you need to move a week or choose a different program, no problem. We will make changes at any time, provided there is space in the program.

If you decide to add weeks, we will ensure you receive the best pricing based on the number of weeks your camper attends.

Breakfast

Campers enjoy a mix of hot and cold breakfast options each morning. Hot breakfast rotations may include: eggs, waffles, pancakes, and French toast.
Everyday breakfast options include toast, bagels, cereals, fresh fruit, and drinks.

Lunch

Lunch includes a daily rotation of hot entrées alongside consistent favorites, so campers always have options they recognize and enjoy.

• Hot lunch rotations may include burgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers, chicken nuggets, and other rotating hot items.
• Every day lunch options a salad bar, sandwich bar, cereals, fresh fruit, and drinks.
• A variety of desserts are offered daily, from cookies to ice cream.
• Snacks

We provide morning, afternoon, and late afternoon snacks each day. Snacks rotate daily and include items like granola bars, Goldfish crackers, pretzels, etc.

Water stations are available throughout campus,, and campers can refill their water bottles at any time.

Special Dietary Needs

Your camper's dietary needs are in good hands at Lawrenceville.. Their experienced dining services team accommodates most dietary restrictions and food allergies, what's available:

• Dedicated gluten-free options daily (ideal for celiac disease or gluten sensitivity)
• Daily vegetarian and vegan meals 
• Clear labeling of all ingredients and common allergens (wheat, eggs, dairy, soy, tree nuts, peanuts)

Communicating Dietary Requirements

Managing dietary restrictions or food allergies we know can be challenging to navigate for campers and families, but we're here to help. Please inform us of any specific needs your child has by including them in the medical forms. Our team is always available to address any concerns or queries you may have.

Picky Eaters

We recognize that some campers may have specific dietary preferences and be considered picky eaters. Fortunately, our partnership with Lawrenceville offers an extensive range of dining options to suit every palate. In fact, we're spoiled for choice! DEAN has access to a daily rotation of hot lunch items, including vegan and vegetarian options. Additionally, a sandwich, salad bar, a variety of cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables, and an array of snack items are available every day. With this diverse selection, we believe there's something to satisfy every camper's taste buds.

Open Door Policy

Should you have any questions about our meal offerings or policies, please feel free to reach out to our camp office at 610-660-9600 or send us an email at deanteam@deancamps.com. We're committed to providing a dining experience that's not just delicious but also safe, inclusive, and reassuring.

Everything your camper needs for an epic adventure is included in the registration cost! From essential safety gear like helmets and pads to creative tools like sewing machines, we've got it all covered.

Our priority is your family’s happiness. As parents ourselves, we want for you what we would want for our own families: if you have an issue, we will fix it. No excuses, no matter what. Give us a chance to make it right for you and your family, and if we are not able to, we will refund your tuition. Your happiness is our happiness. Guaranteed.

We're all about ensuring your camper has the time of their lives! With a mix of indoor and outdoor adventures, it's important they come prepared for action. Each day, please pack:

• Sunscreen, labeled with your child’s name and in a plastic bag
• A bathing suit and a towel for water fun
• A change of clothes for post-adventure comfort
• Bug repellent,  labeled with your child’s name and in a plastic bag (optional, but handy)

Let's gear up for an unforgettable time at DEAN!

We've got all the fun and gear covered! To keep your camper’s day carefree and focused on adventure, we kindly request leaving personal items like toys, electronics, trading cards, or special keepsakes at home. This helps prevent loss or damage during the hustle and bustle of camp activities.

While we provide all necessary equipment, including helmets and safety pads, campers are welcome to bring their own if they prefer. Just a little reminder: DEAN Adventure Camps isn't responsible for any personal items brought to camp. Let's keep it simple and fun!

The address to The Lawrenceville School is 2500 Main Street, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648.  You can check out their campus map HERE. 

The Monday prior to your registered week(s) of camp a welcome email will be sent with specific instructions to where we are located on campus with our pick-up and drop-off instructions.

DEAN  is a phone-free camp to maximize engagement and fun! We kindly request that campers keep their cell phones tucked away during camp activities. If we notice any calling, texting, or phone use, we gently remind campers to put their phones away and focus on the adventures at hand. We completely understand the importance of cell phones, but at camp, we're all about living in the moment and diving into the exciting activities we have in store!

We welcome campers of all experience levels, from beginner to advanced! Our counselors are equipped to guide campers of all skill levels. We created a no-pressure environment where everyone can freely explore new skills and continue building them at their own pace. It's all about discovery and fun; no experience is needed!

We closely monitor weather conditions to ensure everyone's safety. Light rain won't stop our outdoor adventures—just pack rain gear if rain is in the forecast! In severe weather, we'll move activities indoors and communicate our protocols to families.

Your child's safety is our top priority. We take a multi-layered approach to keeping campers safe and cared for:

Prevention First: Every camper receives proper safety equipment and thorough instruction on how to use all tools and equipment before they begin any activity.

Immediate Medical Care: Lawrenceville School's on-site nurse is available to respond quickly to any medical needs. Additionally, all our Lead Counselors are First Aid and CPR-certified, so trained support is always nearby.

Emergency Support: We have direct access to Lawrenceville School's Campus Safety Department for additional security and emergency response when needed.

Our Protocol: For minor injuries like cuts and scrapes, our trained staff provides immediate care. For anything more serious, we follow our emergency action plan facilitated by our nurse for quick decision-making and action.

We maintain detailed health forms for every camper and communicate with families immediately in the event of any injury, sickness or issue requiring medical attention.

Absolutely! Many of our campers attend multiple weeks throughout the summer, and we love watching them build skills and confidence over time. In fact, campers can spend 14 years growing with DEAN from starting at Pre-K all the way to our leadership programs. Every day offers new projects, challenges, and opportunities to explore in our fun, supportive environment.  There are even savings for attending camp for additional weeks with us:

Multi-Week Discounts:

• 2-4 weeks: 3% off
• 5-7 weeks: 6% off
• 8+ weeks: 10% off

• A DEAN drawstring backpack – Perfect for carrying sunscreen and daily essentials around camp. 
• DEAN T-shirt – Makes getting ready in the morning a breeze (and helps counselors easily spot campers during activities!)
• BPA-free water bottle – We'll label it at camp, and campers can refill it throughout the day to stay hydrated
• Car magnet & sticker – Show off your DEAN pride!

Use these items as daily camp gear or as keepsakes to remember all the amazing experiences at DEAN. DEAN distributes one welcome pack per camper per summer.

We know choosing the right summer camp involves careful consideration of cost alongside the safety and quality of programming. We want to be transparent about our pricing structure and assure you that every dollar spent is an investment in an enriching and memorable experience for your child. For summer 2026, DEAN has created a tiered pricing model helping families who are getting a jump start on their summer planning, while helping us from the costs for staffing, programming, and logistics well in advance of summer.

2026 Weekly Rates:

• January 16–31: $655 per week
• February 1–28: $685 per week
• March 1–31: $715 per week
• April 1–August 21: $745 per week

Our tiered pricing structure offers options to suit different planning timelines, and rest assured that each registration, regardless of when you enroll, reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality programming, expert staff, and a safe, enriching environment.

FOR OUR FAMILIES:

Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks

As part of our commitment to providing a seamless and worry-free experience, we include breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages in the camp fee. With this inclusive approach, you can have peace of mind knowing your child will receive nourishing, delicious meals throughout their time at DEAN.

Extended Hours for Your Convenience

We understand the demands of family and work life. Trying to be in seven places we know is not possible. We decided that our camp day would complement more realistic schedules without any additional costs. Our formal camp day runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., but we created a flexible drop-off schedule. Campers can be dropped off any time between 7:30 - 9 am. and pick up any time between 3:30 - 5:30 pm, all for one price.

A Beautiful Location

We are incredibly fortunate to have a strong partnership with Lawrenceville School, which enables us to provide an exceptional camp experience. While we are always mindful of the costs, it's important to note that we chose this location to create a safe, inspiring, and enriching environment for our campers, complete with top-notch security, maintenance, and facilities.

For Our Team

Competitive Salaries and Benefits for our Exceptional Instructors:

We believe in providing the best environment for your child's growth and learning. Our dedicated team of instructors is highly trained, experienced, and passionate about what they do. We pay our instructors competitive salaries plus bonuses to attract and retain top talent, ensuring your child benefits from their expertise. 

For our year-round team, we provide health and other various benefits, such as long-term and short-term benefits. We pay 3% into their 401K no matter what because we believe in investing in their future.

Training & Professional Development

As we believe in youth development, we also believe in developing our team to be the best possible counselors. Our staff is trained in child safety, inclusivity, curriculum and content training, classroom management, and the latest in youth development practices, skill building, for our Lead Counselors, First Aid and CPR, and somecounselor we even provide the opportunity to become  Life Guard certified.

Our directors attend professional conferences, work with consultants, and attend ongoing webinars and trainings throughout the year.  We also compensate for any training that an instructor needs to undertake.

Background Checks 

As required, all our employees undergo NJ state-mandated background checks process for all counselors (minimum age 16) will have:

• State criminal and sex offender registry search
• State child abuse and neglect registry search
•  National Crime Information Center search
•  National Sex Offender Registry search

OUR PROCESS:

Programming & Curriculum

We have a Curriculum team with experience in education and child development. Our team spends 9 months post-camp researching, writing, testing, and recording components of our curriculum to be shared with our instructors so they can deliver a great learning opportunities that are disguised as summer camp fun.

Materials and Supplies

To encourage exploration and learning, we provide all the necessary materials and supplies your child needs for their various activities, so there is no barrier to entry. From sewing machines to bikes, skateboards, robots, and safety equipment, everything is included.

9-months to Plan 3-Months

Just like teachers whose days don’t end at 3:00 pm, our work doesn’t happen solely between the months of June and August. We currently employ a team of 5 full-time employees to prepare for camp at our 6 locations throughout DC, MD, NJ, PA, and VA every summer. These team members specialize in Human Resources to hire over 150 seasonal, high-quality instructors, Curriculum and Programming, Marketing and Sales, Technology, Operations, The Camper Experience, Finances & administration, and Supply and Distribution management - we even have a warehouse in Manayunk housing over 300 sewing machines, 200 robots, 40 bikes and more!

• Recognize when they need to use the bathroom

• Manage their clothing on their own

• Clean themselves properly

• Wash their hands afterward

We know accidents can happen, and our caring staff is always available to offer gentle reminders and support. In general, campers should be comfortable managing bathroom routines without direct assistance.

Have questions about whether your child is ready? We're here to help, just reach out!

Our counselors are trained to support campers through big feelings. We'll work with your camper using strategies like taking a quiet break, connecting with a buddy, or checking in with a lead counselor. If we're concerned, we'll give you a call to discuss whether your camper needs additional support or an early pickup.

To keep campers focused and safe, Lawrenceville School's campus does not permit outside visitors unless escorted by a DEAN designated staff person.

We take safety seriously. Anyone who spends time with campers must complete our comprehensive background check process first. You can find detailed information about requirements in our Background Check FAQ section.

We understand life happens! Drop-off is flexible between 7:30-9:00 AM, so there's no such thing as "late" during that window. IF you do arrive after 9:00 just give the office a call or send us a text at, +1 609 557 7444. For pickup, please plan to arrive by 5:30 PM. If you'll be late, call our camp office immediately at +1 609 557 7444.

We require all campers to apply sunscreen before outdoor activities. Please send your camper with their own labeled sunscreen each day. Our staff provides reminders and can assist younger campers with application if needed. We also ensure campers take water breaks frequently and move activities indoors during extreme heat.

Campers participate in a 30-minute daily free swim period, weather permitting. All swimming is supervised by certified lifeguards and DEAN staff. Before entering the pool, each camper completes a short swim assessment so our lifeguards can determine the safest area of the pool for their swimming ability.

Swimming is completely optional. Campers who prefer not to swim can participate in other recess activities instead.

Our youngest campers enjoy water-play activities such as slip-and-slide, water twisters, and other water games. These activities are also optional, with alternative recess choices available.

We'll send detailed swim and water play information in mid-May, including:

• What to bring for swim and water play 
• Swim assessment details and safety protocols
• Alternative activities for campers who choose not to swim.

If your camper is sick (fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or contagious illness), please keep them home until they're symptom-free for 24 hours without medication. We follow current health guidelines and will contact you if your camper develops any concerning symptoms during the camp day. Our priority is keeping all campers and staff healthy.

We conduct regular safety drills with campers and staff. In the event of an emergency requiring evacuation, we follow Lawrenceville School's emergency protocols and will communicate with families immediately via text/email/phone calls.

 We're committed to making camp accessible to all families. If you need financial assistance, please reach out to deanteam@deancamps.com. We work with families on payment plans and have limited scholarship funds available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Your camp fee includes everything: all meals (breakfast, lunch, snacks), before and after care (7:30 AM-5:30 PM), all materials and supplies, safety equipment, DEAN welcome pack (backpack, t-shirt, water bottle), and instruction. There are zero hidden fees or surprise costs.

We want every camper to love their experience! If your child isn't happy with their program choice, we'll work with you to switch them to a different program for the following week (space permitting). Our happiness guarantee means if there's an issue, we'll fix it. Whether that's changing programs, providing a credit, or issuing a refund. 

We welcome campers with a wide range of needs and abilities. Please share information about your camper's needs in the registration forms so we can discuss appropriate accommodations. Our staff is trained to support diverse learners, and we work closely with families to ensure every camper can participate fully and safely.

Our counselors are trained in helping campers navigate new social situations. We use strategies like buddy systems, small group activities, and regular check-ins. Many campers feel nervous on Day 1 and are leading the group by Friday! We encourage you to talk with your camper about trying new things and that it's okay to feel nervous.

Our counselors actively monitor group dynamics and address conflicts immediately using age-appropriate conflict resolution strategies. We teach campers to communicate their feelings, listen to others, and find solutions together. If issues persist, we'll contact you to partner on a solution.

Absolutely. Please note any religious accommodations needed (dietary, activity participation, etc.) in your registration forms, and we'll work with you to ensure your camper's needs are respected.

DEAN combines skill-building depth with a no-pressure, exploratory approach. We offer specialized instruction (real sewing machines, woodworking tools, culinary techniques) typically found in teen programs, but designed developmentally for elementary and middle schoolers. Plus, our extended hours (7:30 AM-5:30 PM) with all meals included means less stress for families. We focus on building grit, creativity, and confidence through hands-on making.

We maintain a 1:7 counselor-to-camper ratio across all programs. Staffing for each program includes one Lead Counselor and Assistant Counselors to support the Lead and ensure we maintain our designated ratio.

For non-urgent questions, please email deanteam@deancamps.com or contact us via phone or text, +1 609 557 7444. and we'll respond promptly. For urgent matters, call our camp office at +1 609 557 7444. We'll provide direct contact information for your camper's lead counselor at the start of each week.

DEAN Zone is where camp magic happens before and after the official camp day. It’s a flexible, fun-filled time that wraps around our main programming.

Morning DEAN Zone (7:30-9:00 AM)

Roll up to Lawrenceville School anytime between 7:30 and 9:00 AM—no stress, no "you're late" guilt. Friendly counselors greet your camper right at drop-off and escort them straight to the Dining Hall, where a full breakfast awaits: hot options like pancakes and eggs alongside grab-and-go favorites such as bagels, cereal, and fresh fruit.

As campers fuel up, the room buzzes with early-morning energy. Finished eating? Time for fun! Campers choose their own adventure: challenge a friend to chess, get competitive in a round of Uno, create at the arts and crafts station, or head outside for 9-square and gaga ball. It's the perfect warm-up before the day's main adventures begin.

As campers fuel up, the room buzzes with early-morning energy. Finished eating? Time for fun! Campers choose their own adventure: challenge a friend to chess, get competitive in a round of Uno, create at the arts and crafts station, or head outside for 9-square and gaga ball. It's the perfect warm-up before the day's main adventures begin.

Afternoon DEAN Zone (3:30-5:30 PM)When the official camp day wraps at 3:30 PM, the PM DEAN Zone kicks into high gear. It's all about choice! Some campers are ready to keep moving; others need to chill. We've got both covered.

DEAN Zone is a buzz with a variety of Zones to fit camper interests. Here are a few of our options that will be available daily:

• Creation Station: makers sketching designs, stitching projects, or dreaming up their next big idea
• Field Sports:  where kickball games erupt, cricket wickets fall, and 9-square tournaments crown champions
• Chillaxation Station: offering quiet refuge with books, calming music, bean bags, and the permission to just... breathe after a big day
• Game Station: dungeons and dragons,, Uno showdowns, and chess matches that require serious strategy
• Builder Station: where blocks, and imagination collide to create forts, towers, and fun!

Campers flow between stations, following their interests and energy levels. Pick up anytime between 3:30 and 5:30 PM—your camper will be happily occupied until you arrive.

The Best Part?

DEAN Zone is completely included in your camp fee. No extra charges, no complicated add-ons. Just a flexible, joy-filled time that makes your mornings smoother and your afternoons stress-free.

How to Reach Us:

• Direct Lawrenceville School Office Phone line (in season only): Call or text us at, +1 609 557 7444
• DEAN’s Main Office #: 610-660-9600
• Live Chat: Chat with us directly on www.deancamps.com between 10 AM - 4 PM
• Email: Contact us at deanteam@deancamps.com

Before Camp Starts:

Leading up to summer, you'll receive regular email updates from DEAN with important camp information, preparation tips, and any program updates or changes.

DEAN Camp Connect Portal - You'll receive access one week before your registered session. This is your hub for:

• The DEAN Family Guide with essential start-of-camp information that includes
  • Pick-up/drop-off logistics
  • Schedules
  • What to bring to camp
  • Weekly breakfast and lunch menu
  • Program details
  • Instructor bios

During Camp:

• Daily Photo Albums: Check the Camp Connect Portal each day to see photos of your camper in action
• Daily News Blasts: Recap on camp happenings each day.
• Mid-Week Survey (Tuesday): Tell us how your camper's week is going so we can ensure they're having a great time
• End-of-Week Survey (Friday): Share what you loved and what could be improved, plus access a private photo album capturing the week's highlights