Is previous outdoor experience required?

No, this camp is designed to be accessible and fun for children of all experience levels.

What should kids bring from home?

Comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, sun protection, and a refillable water bottle.

Yes, healthy, farm-fresh meals are prepared and shared as part of the camp experience.

What is the duration of the camp activities?

Activities typically last 2 to 3 hours, depending on the day's schedule.

Can families stay on-site?

Families are encouraged to participate in the final meal and share the experience.

Is the camp suitable for non-native English speakers?

Yes, staff are welcoming and can accommodate diverse language needs.

Outdoor Kids Camp at HealthBarn USA during NJEA Convention | Events | Food Tour

Located in the heart of New Jersey, HealthBarn USA presents a dynamic outdoor kids' camp tied to the NJEA Teachers' Convention. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this holiday camp offers children aged 4-12 a chance to immerse themselves in nature and hands-on culinary activities. The farmstead setting features accessible vegetable gardens, scenic trails, and a dedicated outdoor learning space that encourages curiosity and interaction with the environment. Participants will partake in engaging activities such as cooking classes using fresh, farm-grown ingredients, composting lessons, and nature hikes that highlight local flora and fauna. The natural landscape boasts rolling fields, mature trees, and colorful pollinator gardens, providing an ideal backdrop for outdoor learning. The rural charm of HealthBarn USA fosters a sense of community and sustainability, with an emphasis on healthy eating habits and environmental respect. This camp stands out because of its unique blend of farm-based education and culinary skills, all set within a safe, welcoming outdoor environment. It offers a rare opportunity for city kids and suburban families to experience farm life in an educational context while enjoying the vibrant spring season. The program concludes with a shared meal featuring the dishes prepared, encouraging families to continue the healthy habits at home. Friendly staff and engaging activities make this camp a prominent highlight for families attending the NJEA Convention, providing a memorable, meaningful outdoor experience that blends learning and fun. The natural surroundings, farm-to-table focus, and community spirit make HealthBarn USA a standout destination for young adventurers and curious explorers alike.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2–3 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for children and adults of all fitness levels; no prior experience needed.

Wildlife

Eastern bluebirds
White-tailed deer

History

HealthBarn USA has operated since 2005, pioneering farm-based health education for families in New Jersey.

Conservation

The farm implements sustainable practices, including composting and organic gardening, to minimize environmental impact.

HealthBarn USA is a Ridgewood, New Jersey–based farm and education organization that runs hands-on cooking, gardening, and youth programs focused on healthy eating, seasonal produce, and outdoor learning. It offers a range of workshops and camps for children and families, including spring break camps, multi-week summer Seedlings camps (5- and 10-week options), age-targeted classes such as Sprouts and Seedlings, youth Master Chefs for ages 12 and up, Pollinators sessions, and specialized workshops like Fruit & Nut Tree Basics. Programs combine organic gardening in an on-site garden, a spacious patio kitchen for outdoor cooking, and classroom instruction to teach planting, harvesting, meal preparation, and nutrition. Camp experiences list homemade meals and hands-on cooking where participants prepare seasonal dishes, practice safe knife techniques, and build kitchen confidence. The Fruit & Nut Tree Basics workshop, led by expert Peter Namuj, covers planting, care, and pruning for trees suited to USDA zones 6–7, including figs and pomegranates, and highlights the community orchard at Irene Habernickel Family Park. HealthBarn USA structures programs by age and skill level, serving children ages 4–12 in many camps and adolescents in advanced chef tracks. Sessions emphasize experiential learning, seasonal food literacy, and outdoor safety. All program descriptions reflect scheduled offerings and curriculum themes, focusing on gardening, cooking, creativity, and healthful eating in Ridgewood and the surrounding area. Schedule details, session dates, and registration information are published with each program listing so families can choose sessions that fit their calendars. Updated seasonally.

Base locationRidgewood, New Jersey

Tours offered21+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace