Appel Farm offers a unique summer camp experience in southern New Jersey where creativity, community, and personal growth take center stage. For over 60 years, campers have joined artists from around the world to explore the arts in a supportive, inclusive, and safe environment. Appel Farm’s small class sizes, led by specialized instructors, give campers personalized attention to grow their skills. The camp is designed to be gender-affirming and non-competitive, focusing on each camper’s unique talents and interests. With activities ranging from classes and workshops to campfires and performances, every day is packed with fun. Safety is a top priority, with trained staff and a focus on both physical and emotional well-being, ensuring a summer that creates lasting memories and friendships.
Please note, spots are very limited for this program.
program details
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Location: Elmer, New Jersey
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Program Length: 1-2 weeks
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Dates:
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1-week sessions: Dates coming soon
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2-week sessions:
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Session 1: June 29 – July 12, 2025
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Session 2: July 13 – July 26, 2025
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Participant Mix: Mix of students from all over the country. You may or may not have other Summer Searchers on your trip.
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Transportation: Summer Search pays for your flights and for Appel Farm to bring you to and from the airport
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Accommodations: Modern bunks with people in your age group
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Bathrooms: Shared bunk bathrooms
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Phone Access: Appel Farm is a phone-free environment. You won't have your cell phone, but you can bring pre-stamped envelopes to send mail home to your family during your trip!
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COVID Policy: None
program ACTIVITIES
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Choose a Major (like Theatre, Music, Dance, and more) to focus on, along with two Minors
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Have a Free Choice period each day for exploring new activities or relaxing
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Join in weekly Friday Night Concerts, Campfires, and Open Mic Nights to showcase your creativity
you'll get from this experience...
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A chance to develop a new craft or further improve your art skills in a supportive, non-competitive setting
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Build community and form friendships with people with a similar interest
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Self-confidence, independence, and problem-solving skills, through activities and interactions
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Connections with others who share their interests and values in an inclusive environment.
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A balance of structured classes, free-choice activities, and fun events
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Skills in teamwork, collaboration, resilience, and self-expression that you can apply far beyond camp
THIS COULD BE FIT FOR STUDENTS...
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Feel comfortable traveling by plane to a different state, possibly alone
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If you don't already have a government-issued ID that can be used for flights, you will need to get one!
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Who like being around a wide age range
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While your bunkmates will be around the same age as you, Appel Farms runs programs for participants 8 - 17 years old!
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Who are 17 years old and younger
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If you're 18+, talk to your mentor about which options work for you!
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