What should my child bring to camp?

Besides comfortable clothing and waterproof footwear, pack a reusable water bottle, sun protection, and any necessary medication.

Is prior marine experience required?

No prior experience is needed; the camp is designed to introduce children to marine science through hands-on activities.

How many staff members are involved?

The camp is staffed by trained educators and naturalists dedicated to providing engaging and safe experiences for all participants.

Are snacks or meals provided?

Campers should bring their own snacks and water, as meals are not included. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice.

Is the camp accessible for children with disabilities?

The Bayshore Center aims to provide inclusive experiences; please contact them in advance to discuss specific needs.

When should I register?

Spaces fill quickly, so early registration is recommended, especially for peak summer weeks.

Marine Science Day Camps at Bayshore Center in Commercial Township

Situated along the scenic coastline of Commercial Township in New Jersey, the Bayshore Center offers a dynamic summer camp experience designed for young science enthusiasts in grades 4-6. This week-long program immerses campers in the vibrant marine ecosystems of the region, blending hands-on activities with environmental learning. Participants will dive into marine biology, observing local marine animals such as crabs, fish, and shellfish, while engaging in interactive simulations that demonstrate the delicate balance of coastal life. The camp emphasizes sustainability, empowering kids to become conservation advocates through creative projects and community-based initiatives.

What makes this camp especially popular is its focus on experiential learning right at the water’s edge. Campers might spend mornings exploring estuaries and marshlands, spotting herons or fiddler crabs, then transition into afternoon activities like water quality testing or constructing model oyster reefs. The Bayshore Center is a cornerstone in the local outdoor recreation landscape, uniquely positioned to combine education with adventure. Its proximity to protected waterfront areas makes it an ideal hub for witnessing the region’s diverse flora and fauna firsthand.

This program stands out for its commitment to inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. It’s not just a camp—it’s a chance for young explorers to connect with the sea’s mysteries in a safe, engaging environment, igniting a passion for conservation early on. Whether your child is a budding biologist or simply loves splashing in the surf, this experience offers a meaningful way to learn and grow amid New Jersey’s coastal beauty.

About Bayshore Center

Bayshore Center at Bivalve, located in Commercial Township, New Jersey, connects visitors with the Delaware Bay’s maritime history, coastal ecosystems, and hands‑on education programs. The center operates a range of public sails, community fundraisers, evening education events, and youth camps that emphasize conservation and experiential learning. Camp programs — branded as Bayshore Discovery Camp — invite students in grades 4–6 to participate in dockside science, nature walks, habitat restoration, wildlife tracking, model‑building, and conservation projects that reinforce stewardship.

Public sails aboard the AJ Meerwald, a 115′ oyster schooner built in 1928, offer two‑hour excursions from ports including Trenton, Cape May, and Philadelphia. Sail passengers may assist the crew or relax while bringing their own food and drinks. The Delaware Bayshore Boat Ride cruises the Maurice River to the Delaware Bay for views of the East Point Lighthouse, with proceeds benefitting the Bayshore Center at Bivalve.

Community events include the Spirit of the Sail fundraiser at Mission Spirits and Suds and Science evenings at AJ’s Pub, where education partners present regional conservation work. These programs blend storytelling, maritime tradition, and environmental research to engage local residents and visitors. The center’s mixed offering of educational camps, historic-vessel sails, and community fundraisers supports public awareness of the Bayshore’s natural and cultural resources while providing accessible outdoor experiences for families and learners.

Programming often emphasizes hands-on science, citizen science participation, and partnerships with local researchers, creating measurable conservation outcomes and fostering lifelong interest in maritime ecology among young learners and adult volunteers and educators.