YMCA Camp Zehnder Hooks Kids on Fun and Adventure

YMCA Camp Zehnder is opening its grounds for a day of family fun on Saturday, April 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the camp’s 140-acre location at 3911 Herbertsville Road in Wall Township. The event features a spring fun run followed by a free fishing derby designed to inspire curiosity, imagination and connection.

“Camp Zehnder is a safe and welcoming space where kids can explore new interests, forge connections and grow as individuals,” said Camp Director Karen Little. “As spring finally arrives, we’re thrilled to welcome all children from the Jersey Shore and their families to experience this nurturing atmosphere firsthand.”

Create, Connect and Cast a Line: Free Fishing Derby

The day of fun features two events filled with activities that will ignite imagination and curiosity while families enjoy time outside in nature.

• Spring Fun Run: Kids from ages 2 to 11 can make crafts and play games as they explore Camp Zehnder from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Every runner will receive a finisher’s medal. The cost per runner is $15. Tickets can be purchased in advance online.
• Fishing Derby: Families can cast a line in Camp Zehnder’s fishing area and partake in hands-on science activities in the Nature Building during this free event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Camp tours will be available. While registration is not required for this free event, the Y requests that community members respond in advance online to facilitate planning.

Plan a Return Visit at the May Open House

Families are also invited to come back and learn about summer camp options at the Camp Zehnder Open House on Sunday, May 3, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Explore the beachfront lake, outdoor aquatics complex, climbing walls, zipline and more.

The 2026 Camp Zehnder season will run from June 22 to August 28, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Before and after care is also available from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

To learn more about Camp Zehnder, buy tickets for the Spring Fun Run and register for the Fishing Derby, visit the YMCA Camp Zehnder website.

About YMCA of the Jersey Shore

The YMCA of the Jersey Shore is a cause-driven nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Based in Shrewsbury, NJ, we serve 60,000 people annually in Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean counties. From lifesaving swim lessons and child care to mental health support and chronic disease prevention, we offer programs that uplift people of all ages, incomes and backgrounds. With a legacy of more than 150 years of service, we’re proud to be named a USA Today Top Workplace for 2025 and Top Workplace in New Jersey 2022-2025 by NJ Advance Media.

Learn more at www.ymcanj.org.