Testimonials

Each year our camp families write and tell us of the wonderful summer their campers had at Willow Lake. The following is a handful of quotes parents shared with us. Read why Willow Lake is the best choice for a summer day camp experience for your child!

2011 Day Camp Testimonials

Willow Lake exceeded my expectations. It was my son’s first summer and he was very nervous about it. After seeing my son’s happy face every single day, my nervousness quickly disappeared. Plus, the staff was wonderful….My son had a blast and matured so much….Willow Lake has been the best experience for my son and family. It truly was an amazing thing to see my son smiling every afternoon and waking up early every day in excitement to get to camp.
– Ilissa Schachman, Montville

From our bus counselor to the unit leader to the group counselors and activities’ staff, the staff was terrific. The swim staff really helped our daughter make progress and she spoke so highly of “her” lifeguard. We expected she’d enjoy camp but were unprepared for the complete love she had for Willow Lake.
– Beth Kitzinger, South Orange

We were very impressed by Willow Lake. You work hard and it shows. After 5 years at [one of your competitors] we did not feel this way. I’m sorry we didn’t switch sooner. Alyssa Wax, Pine Brook
Willow Lake is a special place. It’s everything we wanted summer camp to be for our children.
– Erika January, Maplewood

It was fun, exciting, interesting and a great opportunity for growth in areas that never would have otherwise been explored.
– Sara Chwatt, Short Hills

Experience of a lifetime. My children were stimulated and entertained all day long…. My son wants to know why he can’t go to summer camp all year long. That really sums it up! Robin Rees, Morris Plains
Willow Lake truly is a “good spirited” camp! As it says on the t-shirt, “the spirit of summer!” Loved all of the communication….[It] is the BEST kept secret summer camp!!!! Peace, love and Willow Lake!
– Allison Vogel, Livingston

Each day provides an opportunity for a camper to learn about himself and others while building confidence and having FUN….My son became a more outgoing child who was clearly more confident by the end of the summer. He was singing, dancing and showing off his swimming skills for us—all things he had never really done before…. It was the best possible way he could have spent his summer.
– Shana Kisatsky, Great Meadows

Charlotte is on her 4th summer and it was the best one yet. Josie was on her first and after an initial adjustment period, she had a wonderful summer. Her highlight was that she went from not knowing how to swim at all to passing the deep water test for her age group.
– Allison Busch-Vogel, South Orange

Both of my kids complain that camp is shorter than school. They wish they could go to camp from April-September and then school for the rest of the time….We love Willow Lake and will stay as long as my kids want to stay!
– Alison Schuchman, Mountain Lakes

My son thinks Willow Lake is the most amazing place on Earth! He is already counting down to summer 2012. He loves the wide variety of activities and experiences. The counselors were wonderful and really met the unique needs of each child.
– Stacey Gold, Caldwell

My kids have been coming to Willow Lake for a long time and every year you manage to outdo yourselves.
– Julie Gudz, Livingston

Everything worked like a Swiss clock. Great management, great counselors. So many activities, my son came home with a big grin every day. Fantastic experience…. It was a good feeling sending him to camp, knowing that he was safe, in very professional hands, and that his days were filled with meaningful experiences and not just “killing time” for the day.
– Amy Rozen, Rockaway Township

Bryce is a very high energy human being with many interests. The experience provided tremendous opportunities including sports, kayaking, swimming, boating, theater and more! Lisa Axe, Montclair
Willow Lake has been great for my children’s social and physical growth! They have really learned so much about teamwork, friendship, and the ability to push themselves to try new things!
– Carol Schachter, Randolph

Even at this age, sometimes kids don’t want to go to school. Not so with camp. Every day, no matter what, my boys begged for a camp day. They were actually disappointed when it was the weekend or when we went on our annual family vacation; they wanted to be at camp. This was the best summer my boys ever had and those are their words, not mine.
– Jen Benza, West Orange

My youngest was always afraid to get his face wet–he got over that and actually started to swim. My second grader’s confidence in the water greatly improved and he was always motivated to try to make it to the next level.
– Jennie Tinkelman. South Orange

My daughter’s counselors were attentive to her needs and made sure that she was safe and always entertained…. We had such a positive experience and would highly recommend this camp. Everybody went above and beyond their way to make sure [the campers] had a fantastic experience to remember.
– Cecile Gorostiza, Succasunna

The best thing about the Willow Lake program was swimming, of course…also the wide variety of activities to keep them looking forward to camp every day. My son tends to be a sports kid, so I enjoyed how much he loved basketry, cooking, fishing and climbing in addition to his old standbys. My daughter loved dance and theater and ventured out in the sports arena in a way that made her comfortable. This is our 7th summer at Willow Lake. Every year it exceeds the expectations I had set for it the year before.
– Holly Simons, Short Hills

My children’s summers at Willow Lake have helped them to learn more about themselves and become more independent in a safe, fun environment. They cannot imagine spending their summers anyplace else.
– Renee Edelman, South Orange

My daughter’s swimming skills and confidence improved by leaps and bounds….On the night before the last day of camp, my 6 year old daughter said, “I wish when I wake up tomorrow it will be Thursday again so camp never has to end.
– Susan Frankel, Stockholm

To quote my son, it was “awesome!” After the first few days of camp, I already noticed a change in him. He was more independent, shared more of his day with me than he had before he started and just seemed extremely happy all of the time (nothing is better than that)! I believe Willow Lake gave him everything I could have wanted.
– Jen Holland, Livingston

I would recommend your camp to anyone who wants their kids to have a fun and safe summer, even when it is 100 degrees or raining outside. Franklin is coming back next summer, and soon my younger son. Thank you so much for giving Franklin such a memorable summer.
– Sharon Mau, Montville

According to my daughter, Willow Lake is “really fun.” She loved it and I feel very comforted knowing Willow Lake is available for us every summer. It puts me at peace knowing I have to work but she has a safe and fun environment to go to. And I am so happy that she looks forward to going back all year long. As a working mother the camp is a wonderful blessing. Move over Disney because Willow Lake is the happiest place on earth!
– Christine Berghofer, Sparta

This is our third year at Willow Lake…. My son loved the camp, the counselors and his fellow campers. He had a GREAT time this summer and looks forward to NEXT year!
– Kimberly Axberg, Mountain Lakes

2010 Day Camp Testimonials

“Willow Lake provided my daughter a safe environment where she could try new, exciting activities under the guidance of an encouraging staff. This summer has helped her become more confident and independent while having a fun time doing it.”
– Luciana Daniels, Short Hills

“Jason couldn’t wait to tell me what a great day he had — he would yell up the driveway as he got off the bus.”
– Edie Davidson, North Caldwell

“She loves every single activity and always came home with a smile on her face… She is having fun, making friends and playing sports… She learned how to swim in 3 weeks!!!!!
– Sari Lee, Livingston

“We tried several other camps and Willow Lake is simply the best. It’s everything a summer camp should be… We were so impressed by the staff, the personal attention, the family feeling, and all the fun offered.”
– Erika January, Maplewood

“The camp is beautifully run and seems to really care… My child had a fantastic first summer! … Being in the nursery group, I loved how nurturing the camp was to the little ones.”
– Samantha Fliegler, West Caldwell

“Willow Lake has the best of all camps. Lush, green surroundings with so much fun packed into a day… Both my boys were very proud of their achievements — high ropes, cooking, etc. They had a blast.”
– Amy Talbert, Short Hills

“My daughter loves it — she is disappointed to wake up on the weekend, because she would rather go to camp.”
– Abbey Roth, Livingston

“It offers everything my child enjoys and keeps him busy the whole day.”
– Jacqueline Exelbert, Montville

“Willow Lake provides a warm, loving environment where kids have lots of fun and have the chance to grow, learn and explore… We were thrilled that he improved 2 swim levels this summer. The art projects he brought home were outstanding. Benji looked forward to camp every day.”
– Jennie Rothman, Maplewood

“‘This was the best day ever!’ I heard that every day as my child got off the bus.”
– Stacey Blumenthal, Montville

“Great environment to get exposed to new sports and skills. Program was very well organized. I like the e-mail updates and photos on the website… He wanted plenty of sports and plenty of time outside… Nick’s swimming improved so much. I was very happy with his progress.”
– Linda Hadley, South Orange

“This camp was a great investment in my child’s self esteem, self reliance and social skills. We loved it.”
– Nancy Amar, South Orange

“When I said, ‘Amanda, do you want to go back to camp next summer?’ She said, ‘Willow Lake … .YES! YES! YES! I LOVE WILLOW LAKE CAMP.’”
– Allison Vogel, Livingston

“My daughter has ‘the best day ever’ over and over the whole summer long.”
– Sara Kotlaz, Short Hills

“Lots to do — never a dull moment! … He loved all the sports this summer, especially hockey.”
– Pamela Schuckman, Mountain Lakes

“For Parents — Willow Lake is a safe & well organized camp for children. Willow Lake is a thrilling, fairy tale-like happy place… As a parent I notice all the little details that amount to a lot — the DVD of the nursery show, all the shirts, hats, backpack, projects and trips. So much is included that makes the big $ bill easier to swallow!”
– Jill Bocina, Morristown

“The camp is very accommodating and counselors take a special interest in each child. I love that they call with good news!… My kids love it and have made wonderful friends.”
– Jennifer Raz, Livingston

“Day in and day out, Sam had a great time. He loved everything — and had a blast on the bus. His swimming improved a great deal. He loved the show that was put on in July.”
– Mike Kresch, Short Hills

“I cannot make any suggestions as I feel your camp, staff, administration and facilities far surpass any day camp I have yet to see. My husband and I are avid, experienced campers for many years & are overly impressed with every aspect of Willow Lake!”
– Donna Henderson, Denville

“Willow Lake was exactly what my children wanted — a place to explore new activities, make friends and have fun.”
– Edith LaChac, Caldwell

“Both my children LOVE Willow Lake. It is a fun, caring place with great people and activities without pressure or intense competition.”
– Elisabeth Bedore, Livingston

“Willow Lake is awesome! The staff and facility are amazing!… Our daughter’s peanut allergy has been handled wonderfully.”
– Mark Lowenthal, Maplewood

“It is an inclusive, warm, and fun-filled environment where all kids can thrive and enjoy a very diverse range of activities… He enjoyed all the sports and yet there was no pressure… I think this will boost his confidence in sports going forward. Counselors were clearly good at fostering team spirit.”
– Allison Yurman. Short Hills

“I tell all my friends to send their kids to Willow Lake.”
– Michele Levine, Livingston

“This was Daniel’s first real day camp experience and he loved it from Day 1!”
– Cyndy Wyatt Marin, Short Hills

“Willow Lake allowed each of my 3 boys to bloom by giving them a safe, welcoming, fun environment to exercise some independence and participate in amazing activities like tubing, high ropes, basket weaving and nature. They love it.”
– Brooke Lefferts, Maplewood

“Fun-filled, action-packed days!”
– Abby Edelman, Montville

“A true camp experience — well rounded and so picturesque.”
– Karen Conn, Short Hills

2009 Day Camp Testimonials

“Willow Lake’s activities and staff are amazing! From sports, cooking, arts and crafts to science, your supportive and encouraging counselors made every activity a blast!”
– Victoria Miller, Short Hills

“Fun, nurturing, spirited. A truly well rounded day camp that suits the needs of all types of kids.”
– Asha Roth, Millburn

“The swim program exceeded my expectations. My daughter’s happiness from the first day is beyond my hopes. The bus counselor is phenomenal — made us comfortable immediately and reads my daughter’s mood perfectly.”
– Abbey Roth, Livingston

“I cannot think of a better way for my kids to spend their summer. They absolutely love Willow Lake and wish camp ran as long as school. They often ask why camp is so short… My son was totally swimming in less than three weeks!”
– Alison Schuckman, Mtn. Lakes

“Willow Lake Day Camp has been wonderful for both my boys. It has given them self confidence and strengthened their social skills.”
– Carole Schacter, Randolph

“Sabrina and Tara had a great summer at Willow Lake. They made new friends, matured in so many ways and learned new skills. The girls were happy and could not wait to go to camp every day. They were encouraged to try new sports and activities but in a nonpressurized way.”
– Reva Chada, Livingston

” I think Max said it best, ‘I don’t ever want camp to end!’ … The swim program is great — within 2 days Max was putting his head under water which had eluded him despite 6 months of swim lessons leading up to camp.”
– Adria Fishkin, West Orange

“Amazing experience has helped our daughter build confidence and independence. She is having a GREAT summer doing things we probably wouldn’t have done with her. WOW — and she loves it!”
– Abby Edelman, Montville

“Now that Jacob is 9 and many friends left for sleepaway, I was worried that he would not enjoy camp as much. But now that he is older, they can do so many fun activities on the lake and the sports are more challenging and he’s had one of the best summers yet.”
– Brooke Lefferts, Maplewood

“Willow Lake provides a variety of fun and exciting activities tailor made for any camper. They have a counselor staff above and beyond any other camps. Every summer, my camper enjoys Willow Lake more and more. He gets to try new things each year in a fun and non-pressured setting.”
– Heidi Cohen, South Orange

“Our daughter gets on and off the bus with a smile every day. Every day she is full of stories — from what she did in super science to newcomb to cooking to free swim, etc. She is happy, tired and dirty when she gets off the bus — just the way she should be after a day at camp.”
– Alyson Kaplan, Whippany

“It was such a wonderful experience for both my sons. They felt comfortable and happy everyday. My children are in the Little Willows and I was nervous that the long day would be too much for my sons. It was perfect! They loved it! The combination of nurturing and encouraging independence, which is such a delicate mix, was done with such accomplishment.”
– Suzanne Reiss, Montville

“On the first day of camp, my son camp home and said, ‘Mommy, you made the right choice sending me to Willow Lake!’ (his exact words)”
– Betsy Steckelman, Montville

“Wonderful experience! From cooking to boating and sports galore — she was exposed to it all!”
– Cheryl Karch, Short Hills

“I loved the structure and learning Ryan was able to experience. His highpoint was going out on the boat on the lake. The swimming program was excellent.”
– Julie Fedroff, Millburn

“Amazing summer packed with many different activities. Staff is the best — very caring and attentive.”
– Karen Chioccarello, Pine Brook

“I think the program is fabulous.”
– Racquel Falco, Sparta

“It is the best camp in the whole universe! … We are always very pleased with how much fun our camper has. She is always excited to return every day and every summer!”
– Georgana Porcek, Boonton Township

“Jessica loves everything about camp. She says even the rainy days are fun.”
– Dana Kaplan, Springfield

“Both our children had wonderful summers at WLDC. They made great friends, learned lots of new skills and were just so excited for the bus to come every day!”
– The Araten Family, Short Hills

“Cory loved his first summer at Willow Lake. He particularly enjoyed all the sports activities and his counselors. The camp is so well organized and staffed and handled all the rain this summer beautifully.”
– Jill Johnson, Montclair

“My daughter had the best experience. She developed a lot of skills and became a more mature and self confident child … The facility is clean; counselors are great and treat the kids and families like GOLD. I am still in awe of the way you ran this whole place.”
– Cecile Gorostica, Succasunna

“This summer has been a wonderful experience and well exceeded our expectations for growth, adventure and awareness. The staff is extremely skilled, polite and professional. Every day my daughter RAVES about camp! Your staff truly understand the children and parents can feel comfortable and confident their child is well cared for, safe and happy.”
– Donna Henderson, Denville

“Willow Lake is a nurturing environment where my son was able to grow socially and physically, feeling proud of his accomplishments along the way.”
– Kim Stiller, Pine Brook

“What do you say when your child just says that being at Willow Lake makes them feel happy!! He continues to expand his horizons and push his boundaries all while learning and having fun.”
– Marni Sherman, Montville

“Willow Lake is a place for children to grow, learn, experience new things and explore their interests. At Willow Lake my children grew socially, physically and intellectually!”
– Staci Weiss, Livingston

“My daughter is now swimming on her own with confidence.”
– Zahava Silverberg, Montville

“Willow Lake has been the best experience for our son. It taught him good sportsmanship and how to work as a team player. Plus he learned how to swim with confidence!”
– Carole Schachter, Randolph

“Fun all day! Each of my children are so excited to tell me about the excitement of their days.”
– Michele Landau, Livingston

“My son had the best time! Each day he would tell us about the activities he did …from walled soccer to super science. He was so excited to show us what he made in ceramics and basketry. WLDC offered Dean such a wide variety of activities and events.”
– Dyan Zinzi, Montville

“My kindergartener threw her arms around me after the first week of camp and said, ‘Thank you for making me go to camp!’ Both children made new friends and challenged themselves in ways I didn’t think possible. My 2nd grader–who is afraid of heights–tried high ropes and liked it.”
– Sheryl Reba, Livingston

“Everyday my daughter Gianna had something exciting to say about camp, whether is was a personal goal or something that was happening that day. …It was very clean and organized – The staff very energetic and professional. People are very warm and friendly and ready to help if you have a concern.”
– Georgana Porcek, Boonton Twp.

“Both kids woke up each day enthusiastic about getting ready to get to camp–never had a bad day!”
– Jessica Frank, Montclair

“Experiencing so many different activities gave my son a chance to try new things… He had a great summer there and wants to go back ‘forever.’
– Gail Savloff, West Caldwell

“My daughter enjoys Willow Lake more and more each summer. This will be her fourth summer (she will be in second grade) and she can’t wait until camp starts again! …My daughter always had a smile on her face throughout the entire 8 weeks. …She loves to swim now–thank you!!”
– Nicole Knepfer, Montville

“He says he had a SUPER AMAZING summer! He can’t wait to come back next year.
– Rachel Greenberg, Millburn

“Gabi seems to have more fun each year–she is still enjoying camp even as an older camper.”
– Peggy Romano, Livingston

“Fun, fun, fun–and more fun!”
– Marjorie Zucker, Short Hills

“My son had the best 7 weeks of his life. He said it was like all of the best play dates he ever had all at one time.”
– Janet Christmann, South Orange

“Great place for your kids to become more self-confident and develop new friendships.”
– Catalina Maione, Sparta

“Megan had a wonderful summer at Willow Lake. I was worried about changing her camp, but the transition was seamless.”
– Elaine Blitz, Towaco

“My sons came off the bus happy each day. I didn’t hear one complaint all summer. Tubing on Lake Hopatcong was a highlight. The counselors were great–they were so into playing with the campers and being involved in every activity.”
– Nancy Goldenstein, Livingston

“Totally fun-filled and run by organized, very caring management. Excellent counselors and CITs–overall cannot imagine a better day camp experience.”
– Daniel Cohen, Short Hills

“My daughter says ‘Willow Lake has Everything.’ My son loved all of camp but especially the sports–all in all it was a terrific summer for both my children.”
– Marjorie Berger, West Orange

“Best summer ever! He loved the zip line and going out on the big lake.”
– Jodi Sokaler, Pine Brook

“My kids had a great summer playing sports and learning new skills and making new friends. They were exposed to activities they probably would not get from being with us like ropes, ceramics, hockey, boating, fishing and nature which totally engaged them.”
– Brooke Lefferts, Maplewood

“One of the best experiences my six year daughter has had thus far! …My daughter is swimming like a fish and gave up many of her fears of trying new things…”
– Shani Rhodes, Livingston

“Being only 4, I was worried about Charlotte adapting to the new environment and long day. The loving, fun environment of Little Willows was outstanding. …Willow Lake is a very kind place and that kindness overflowed to my kids.”
– Alison Busch-Vogel, South Orange

“A summer at Willow Lake is the best experience I can offer my child. Nothing I could do on my own would be half as much fun. My four year old, Ben, came home day one and said, ‘Mom, Willow Lake was so great–I didn’t even want to come home.’”
– Allison Schuckman, Mountain Lakes

“As close to a sleep away camp in feel, with being a day camp.”
– Abi Spierer, West Orange

“Willow Lake packs in the most fun any kid can dream of!”
– Nancy Scanlon, Hopatcong

“Absolutely FANTASTIC!! He learned so much and has matured tremendously from his experience at Willow Lake.”
– Marni Sherman, Montville

“Nurturing–fun–fosters a spirit of adventure and confidence.”
– Karen Lilienfeld, Livingston

“Willow Lake was an incredible experience.”
– Kim Brazinsky, Montville

2007 Day Camp Testimonials

“I really love this camp!! My children are safe, happy and I know if I call camp I get a call back immediately. Communication is key and Willow Lake has it.”
– Rachel Flaum, Livingston

“The swim program is fabulous. Both Max and Luke are great swimmers and most importantly love and feel safe in the water.”
– Leslie Shapiro, Short Hills

“My daughter learned how to swim in one week! Last year at Willow Lake she was a new camper who was afraid to put her head under water. Now she has already passed the deep water test! Willow Lake is an incredible, special place to spend the summer. The swimming is incredible and well done.”
– Mara Feldman, West Orange

“Willow Lake was the perfect introduction to independence for my young child. The staff made him feel comfortable about trying new things. He learned how to develop friendships and interests. We’ll be back next year.”
– Suki Karp, Livingston

“Awesome! It was our first summer at Willow Lake and from day one my kids were wildly enthusiastic — jumping out of bed every morning, raring to go again…. Being a well rounded camp (not totally sports, not totally arts) was key with two children with two different personalities and likes!!”
– Lisa Portnoy, Maplewood

“I love the fact that the schedule changes so she experiences different sports. She has made strides in her swimming technique and confidence.”
– Zahava Silverberg, Montville

“This will be our son’s 11th year. I think that speaks volumes.” — Lori Buck, North Caldwell

“All three boys were happy to get on the bus every morning and happy when they got off. They were bubbling with stories of all the great things they did all day.”
– Jennifer Feinberg, Short Hills

“Jacob had a terrific summer. He especially loved soccer and high ropes. Who knew he would be so enthusiastic about dangling 40 feet in the air?! … He loves sports and was exposed to different games and experiences. He came home dirty and happy every day….Parents night for 2nd graders was great!”
– Brooke Lefferts, Maplewood

“Willow Lake is a fabulous camp with many fun activities. It is amazing what my girls accomplished in six weeks. This was the best camp experience for my children. ….Swimming skills improved. My five year old is totally comfortable in the water now.”
– Deborah Siclari, Verona

“Each year keeps getting better and better. They are having a great summer trying so many new things. The new “450” zip line is amazing and the highlight of my 3rd grader’s summer. The special events are wonderful — game show, carnival, myachi show, the vaudeville show. My kindergartner came home laughing so hard at the men who performed the vaudeville show. He loved it.””
– Nancy Goldenstein, Livingston

“A fun-filled camp with many diverse activities.”
– Laurie Fern, Livingston

“Willow Lake is a great all around camp. Aaron loved being exposed to lots of things he has never done…. He came home happy every day.”
– Elyse Bell, Millburn

“It’s simply the best gift I could give to her and reap the benefits as well. She has bloomed with a self confidence and independence that surprised even herself.”
– Allison Gurin, Montville

“Our daughter loved her first camp experience. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The staff, the programming, the accountability and your professionalism make the camp top notch.”
– Alisa Wasserman, Denville

“My son Elijah had an amazing summer! Every day was more exciting than the one before! He asked if he could go to Willow Lake forever!”
– Kimberly Elster, West Orange

“My son loved the show. He even taught his 3 year old brother some songs. The music and drama staff did a great job making all the kids be a star!”
– Elisa Grossbard, Livingston

“This was the greatest summer for my son. He was so happy everyday to get on the bus.”
– Debbie Pivnick, Parsippany

“Willow Lake has been a great experience for both of our kids. It provides a great balance of activities, warmth and fun.”
– Randi Rivman, Short Hills

“Jason is having a wonderful summer at Willow Lake. His confidence in the pool has been an incredible transition and was visible after just 1-2 weeks at camp. He always comes home filled with stories of his day.”
– Rachel Greenberg, Millburn

“Jacob had a great summer! He has grown and gained confidence.”
– Elizabeth Bier, West Caldwell

“Willow Lake provided a wonderful, well-rounded, nurturing camp experience for my daughter. Seeing her smile every morning as she got on the bus and off the bus in the afternoon made me feel confident that Willow Lake was the place for her.”
– Staci Weiss, Livingston

“Jared and Rebekah have had the most amazing time at camp. They said this is their best summer ever and loved the activities and all the counselors…. The camp was great and the kids want to come back next year.”
– Bonnie Czukoski, South Orange

“My daughter was very enthusiastic to go to camp every morning. She learned a lot and made many new friends. We took a week off for a vacation and she couldn’t wait to go back.”
– Alison Schuckman, Mt. Lakes

“Can’t wait for next year!”
– Racquel Falco, Sparta

“It (camp) made him feel good about himself. He became a much better swimmer. He improved in sports. He made new friends….what can be better than that?”
– GricelComesanas , Livingston

“I would say that Willow Lake Day Camp is the experience of a lifetime — an experience that every child should have.”
– Amy Olsen, Rockaway