TOMS RIVER, N.J. — More families in Toms River will have access to township summer camps in 2026 after officials expanded the number of available spots across several recreation programs, Mayor Dan Rodrick announced ahead of registration opening this week.
The township said registration for Day Camp, Riverwood Park Camp and Theater Camp opens May 13 at 7 p.m. through Community Pass, with officials warning that many programs traditionally fill within minutes because of high demand.
“We have been increasing the number of spaces each year,” Rodrick said. “Our camp provides a great opportunity for families at a very low cost.”
The expansion comes as families continue searching for affordable summer childcare and recreation options during the school break. Township officials said camps remain open only to Toms River residents because of space limitations and ongoing school construction projects.
Camps Return Across Multiple Toms River Locations
The township’s school-based Day Camp program will run from June 29 through Aug. 7, excluding July 3, at four locations: Silver Bay Elementary, West Dover Elementary, Cedar Grove Elementary and Intermediate East.
Children ages 6 through 13 can enroll on a first-come, first-served basis and will be grouped by age ranges that include 6-7, 8-9 and 10-13 years old. Officials said the camps include indoor and outdoor activities, field trips and special event days throughout the six-week schedule.
Riverwood Park Day Camp will also return for the same six-week period, offering a no-trip option that uses both the park’s outdoor space and air-conditioned recreation building.
The township’s Summer Theater Program will run from June 29 through Aug. 6 and culminate with a final performance on Aug. 6 at 7 p.m. Campers will receive instruction in singing, dancing, choreography and stage performance from experienced instructors.
Key Points
• Toms River increased summer camp spots for the 2026 recreation season
• Registration opens May 13 through Community Pass
• Camps include Day Camp, Riverwood Park Camp, Theater Camp and Camp Discovery
Officials Warn Camps Often Fill Within Minutes
Township recreation officials encouraged parents to prepare Community Pass accounts in advance and upload required documents after registration to speed up the process.
Officials also advised families registering multiple children to sign them up simultaneously to avoid one child being placed on a waiting list while another secures a spot.
“Due to demand, camps often fill within the first few minutes of opening,” the township stated in registration guidance released ahead of enrollment.
Camp Discovery, the township’s special needs summer program, will also return for 2026. The program serves children who qualify through Toms River Regional Schools’ Extended School Year program and focuses on social engagement, planned activities and field trips.
Township officials said waitlisted families may receive openings only if registered campers withdraw from programs later in the season. Transfers between camp locations will not be allowed because enrollment remains strictly first-come, first-served.
Registration and additional program details are available through the township’s Community Pass recreation portal.
