Your Check-in Day Instructions!

June 28, 2025

Below is your step-by-step guide to a smooth and joyful Check-In Day experience.

Please Do Not Arrive Before 2:00 PM
We will not be ready for early arrivals. Check-In runs from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

Arrival & Parking
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: 457 Shirley Rd. Elmer, NJ 08318

Staff will greet you and direct you to park in the parking lot or marked field.
Leave luggage in the car. You will be directed to drive to your camper’s bunk when the check in process is complete.
Please remove from your luggage:
- All medications (in original containers only)
- Any instruments, cameras, or technology to be checked in
Walk to the Welcome Tent to begin the check-in process.

Important Traffic Reminder
As you drive through Elmer, NJ, please be mindful that the speed limit is 25 MPH. Obey all local traffic laws.
Once you enter camp, the speed limit is 5 MPH, and no reversing is allowed. These policies help keep everyone safe.

Step-by-Step Check-In Process

STEP 1: Welcome Tent

Meet our Director of Camper and Family Engagement, Tanner
Confirm your camper’s bunk assignment and receive your Check-In Slip
Ensure all forms are complete and tuition is paid
Please do not skip this step—we need to know you’ve arrived!

STEP 2: Health Checks

Visit the Health & Wellness Team at the Health Center Tent
Campers will receive:
- Lice and fever screenings
- A quick health questionnaire
Drop off all medications, which must be in their original containers
- This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter meds, vitamins, inhalers, topicals, and melatonin
You’re welcome to speak with the health team about any concerns or history

STEP 3: Class Confirmation

Visit the first table in the Dance Studio
Confirm your camper’s class schedule
Adjustments can be made if needed

STEPS 4–6: Dance Studio Stations

Instrument & Camera Drop-Off

Make sure each item is labeled with your camper’s full name and bunk
Staff will store items securely

Technology & SIM Card Collection

Turn in phones, tablets, or SIM cards per our tech policy
Staff will label and store everything safely

Merch Pick-Up

Pick up pre-ordered items or shop at the on-site table

STEP 7: Information Station

Grab a camp map, showcase schedule, and Bunk1 instructions
Ask about purchasing a Welcome Walk Brick to commemorate 65 years of Appel Farm magic!

STEP 8: Bunk Drop-Off & Move-In

Drive to your camper’s assigned bunk area (you’ll be directed by staff and signs)
Park in the grass facing away from the bunk
Speed limit is 5 MPH—please do not reverse

At the bunk:

Meet your camper’s Bunk Head and Bunk Counselors
Help your camper move in and get settled
Share any important information about your camper’s social-emotional needs or preferences
Hand in your Check-In Slip to the bunk staff
Campers will start to engage in get-to-know-you activities and icebreakers

Want to take a quick stroll?
If you have extra time, feel free to take a short walk around campus and enjoy the grounds. It’s a great way to see the beautiful spaces your camper will be exploring all summer long!

Time to Say Goodbye
At 4:00 PM sharp, campers will begin their official first day with:

A Bunk Orientation Meeting
A camp tour, and
Their first evening of fun at Appel Farm!

Give your camper one last hug and snap a quick selfie—it’s going to be a summer to remember

Arts Camp