About Town: A Camp On The Cliffs, Shores

For one week in August the cliffs and shores of the Palisades turn into a nature camp for children ages eight to 12. This summer, the Palisade Interstate Park Commission is once again hosting Camp Palisades from Monday, Aug. 22, to Friday, Aug. 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Fort Lee resident Max Almenas, whose son Adam attended Camp Palisades last summer, told us Camp Palisades was "great."

"The counselors incorporated science by teaching them about marine life, history with stories of the Revolutionary War as they hiked through the Palisades, and they learned to make stew with fresh vegetables in a steel kettle," Almenas said. "It's a fun learning experience."

The campers, led by the Park’s Trail Crew, will learn outdoor survival skills, seine the Hudson River (seining is using nets that have sinkers and floats to trap and catch fish), spend an entire day hiking, explore the hidden treasures of the Palisades and take part in a family campfire celebration on the last evening of camp.

This camp emphasizes hands-on activities for children and is perfect for your young explorer. Each day the counselors introduce a different theme to the campers.

Below is this year’s schedule:

Monday, Aug. 22: Outdoor Survival

Campers will spend the day learning about outdoor survival skills through a series of games and activities. Skills they will learn include shelter-building, compass reading and animal tracking.

Tuesday, Aug. 23: The Hudson River

Get ready to get wet so bring a towel! This is a day filled with river seining, knot tying, beachcombing and nautical navigation. It's the Hudson like you’ve never experienced it!

Wednesday, Aug. 24: Day Hike

This day is devoted entirely to hiking so wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Along the way you’ll discover magnificent waterfalls, the ruins of old mansions that once lined the Palisades and the most amazing views of the Hudson River and New York from atop the cliffs of the Palisades.

Thursday, Aug. 25: The Park in the Past

It’s a blast back to the past this day as you travel back in time to the 19th century, play games from the 1800s, gather water, cook your own lunch (with dessert) and explore nearby, centuries-old ruins.

Friday, Aug. 26: Field Day and Evening Campfire

The last day of camp is all about fun, fun, fun! Field day activities include games, races and crafts. Campers and their families are invited to an evening campfire at 6 p.m. that will include a barbecue, s’mores and live music.

In addition to learning about survival skills, Camp Palisades will provide campers with opportunities to learn a lot more about themselves and help them develop their own strengths.

Because camp is held outdoors, campers will need to wear sturdy footwear, clothing suitable for outdoor activities and bring their own lunch and water bottles. Classes will be held in the Alpine Pavilion in the event of rain.

The cost for the week is $150 per child. That’s only $5 per hour for a fantastic camp in one of the most beautiful spots nature has to offer.

Campers will meet each day at 9 a.m. at the historic Kearney House at the Alpine Boat Basin (just north of the parking lot); Exit 2 off the Palisades Interstate Parkway (PIP).

For more information about Camp Palisades or to register, click here or call 201-768-1360, ext. 110.

Spaces fill up quickly!