Trail Blazers

• Mission: Through outdoor experiential programs, accessible to all, Trail Blazers equips and empowers youth to build values for life.
• Trail Blazers envisions a world where all young people have opportunities to go outside and grow within.
• Trail Blazers is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization (EIN 13-1771421).

Who Trail Blazers serves

• Children and youth, primarily from New York City and surrounding areas.
• Families seeking nature-based camp, afterschool, and youth leadership experiences.
• Schools, youth-serving organizations, and community partners looking for outdoor programs and staff development.

Locations

• Administrative office: 495a Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225.
• New Jersey camp (Mashipacong Estate): 210 Deckertown Turnpike, Montague, NJ 07827 (Sussex County, northern New Jersey, about two hours from Brooklyn).

What Trail Blazers offers

• Nature-based overnight camp at the New Jersey camp property.
• Day camp programs based in parks, with campers outdoors every day.
• Afterschool and out-of-school time (OST) programs focused on outdoor play and social-emotional growth.
• Leadership and workforce development tracks for teens and young adults (e.g., The APEX, The Academy, internships).
• Teambuilding and retreat programs for boards, schools, nonprofits, companies, and youth groups at the New Jersey camp.

Core approach and values

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB)

• Trail Blazers has committed to being an actively anti-racist organization.
• DEIB is integrated into the mission, vision, strategic plan, governance, leadership, communications, and daily operations.
• A DEIB committee of board, staff, alumni, community partners and consultants guides this work and tracks specific, measurable goals.

Climate-centered programming

• Trail Blazers recognizes that climate change is not only an environmental issue but also a mental health, operational, curriculum, and justice issue.
• Programs help young people recognize nature in many forms (forests, city parks, waterways), understand how environments are interconnected, and build stewardship skills.
• Trail Blazers is developing a guiding framework that considers climate in every aspect of its work, with a particular focus on climate anxiety and climate as a mental health issue.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

• Programs are rooted in research-based youth development strategies that promote social-emotional competencies such as:
• self-efficacy
• social skills
• contribution/citizenship
• positive identity
• self-management
• mastery orientation
• Across programs, a large majority of campers show statistically significant growth in at least one competency.
• Programs for both staff and campers are intentionally designed to foster SEL through challenge, social interaction, and play.

Staff and workforce development

• Trail Blazers emphasizes high-quality, diverse staff as key to great programs.
• Leadership development pathways (The APEX, The Academy, internships) create a pipeline of trained staff who reflect the campers and can deliver high-quality, youth-centered programs.

Outdoors every day

• Programs are built so that the outdoors is fully integrated into daily life, not an occasional backdrop.
• Trail Blazers operates from the belief that there is no such thing as bad weather, only inadequate clothing.
• Diverse staff and leadership help young people see that people of all backgrounds belong outdoors.

Financial accessibility

• Trail Blazers is committed to ensuring that financial ability is never a barrier to participation.
• A tiered pricing system and substantial scholarship support (over $1 million in tuition support annually) help remove financial barriers to camp and childcare.

Strategic planning

• Trail Blazers follows a multi-year strategic plan (launched in 2019) that guides program and organizational objectives.
• DEIB serves as the primary strategic lens through which the plan is implemented and evaluated.

Mailing address and office

• Brooklyn office

495a Flatbush Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11225 United States

Camp location

• New Jersey camp (Mashipacong Estate)

210 Deckertown Turnpike Montague, NJ 07827 United States

Organization information

• Registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
• EIN: 13-1771421.

Online

• Website: https://trailblazers.org
• Social media links are available via the website.

If you need the most current program-specific contact details or directions, please refer to the Trail Blazers website or call the main office number above.

Lists Montgomery, Apex, High Point, Mission, Brooklyn, Flatbush, New York City, and Alum Rock as a location. Names Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and United States as a service area. Areas beyond these are not published.

Tiered pricing

• Programs use a tiered pricing structure.
• Families select the tier that best describes their household situation; tuition is then adjusted automatically during registration.

Scholarship fund

• Trail Blazers operates a Scholarship Fund to help cover the gap between what families can afford and the full cost of programming.
• Families assess their ability to pay; Trail Blazers uses the Scholarship Fund to help cover the remaining tuition where possible.

Additional scholarships (day camp example)

For day camp and similar programs, additional scholarship assistance may be available for families who select the lowest tier (Tier 1):

1. Families enroll in the program and pay the required initial deposit.
2. A supplemental scholarship application form appears in the family's enrollment profile.
3. Once submitted, the registration team reviews the request and informs the family how much additional aid can be offered.
4. Due to limited funds and demand, Trail Blazers cannot guarantee matching every request and cannot offer entirely free camp.

Payment plans

• Payment plans are available through the registration system for many programs.
• A non-refundable deposit (for example, 30%) is typically due at enrollment to secure a spot.
• Remaining balances can often be paid in equal monthly installments up to a specified final payment date.

Donations and nonprofit status

• Trail Blazers is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN 13-1771421).
• Donations support Trail Blazers' mission and help sustain the Scholarship Fund that makes programs more affordable.

For the most up-to-date details on tuition levels, available scholarship funds, and payment plan options, families and donors should consult the Trail Blazers website or contact the main office or registration team directly.

Overview

• Trail Blazers offers customized teambuilding, outdoor learning, and leadership development experiences for groups at its New Jersey camp on the Mashipacong Estate.
• The property includes 1,000 acres of forest and its own 55-acre lake in Sussex County, NJ, between Stokes State Forest and High Point State Park.
• The site is roughly two hours from New York City, and even closer for many northern New Jersey, southern New York, and northeastern Pennsylvania organizations.

Who it is for

Programs are designed for:

• Corporate and workplace teams.
• Nonprofits and community organizations.
• School faculties and classes.
• Youth groups and boards.

Example experiences

Trail Blazers can help groups:

• Build trust, communication, and collaboration.
• Develop or refine strategic plans in a natural setting.
• Improve problem-solving ability through challenge course activities.
• Learn outdoor survival skills.
• Experience guided nature engagement.

Options include 2–5 hour one-day adventures and overnight stays with customized programming, meals, and camp activities.

Facilities and resources

• 1,000+ acres of forest.
• 55-acre lake.
• Low and high ropes course elements.
• Proximity to the Delaware River and Appalachian Trail.
• Historic log and stone structures.

Standard day-use offerings

• Intro (about 2 hours) of facilitated programming.
• Half-day (about 3 hours plus lunch).
• Full day (about 5 hours plus lunch).

Overnight experiences can be customized with additional meals and options such as interpretive hikes, outdoor education classes, survival skills, archery, kayaking, and canoeing.

Pricing (subject to change)

Pricing varies by group type and length of program. The following structures are provided as a guide only and may change; always confirm current pricing directly with Trail Blazers.

Corporate groups

• $55 per person – approximately 2 hours.
• $80 per person – approximately 3 hours plus lunch (premium).
• $105 per person – approximately 5 hours plus lunch.
• Minimum charge: 10 participants / $550.

Nonprofits, faith-based groups, and educators

• $30 per person – approximately 2 hours.
• $50 per person – approximately 3 hours plus lunch (standard).
• $75 per person – approximately 5 hours plus lunch.
• Minimum charge: 10 participants / $300.

Schools and youth organizations

• $20 per student – approximately 2 hours.
• $35 per student – approximately 3 hours plus lunch (basic).
• $50 per student – approximately 5 hours plus lunch.
• Minimum charge: 10 participants / $200.
• One teacher or adult chaperone is free per 10 students registered.

Trail Blazers notes that grant assistance may be available for eligible New Jersey schools, nonprofits, and educators, and that special pricing may be available for large groups and multiple bookings.

Planning process

1. Submit an inquiry (for example, using the "Contact Us" option on the teambuilding page).
2. Trail Blazers staff connect with you to understand your goals and group needs.
3. If your intended program falls outside standard day-use offerings (e.g., includes overnights or additional meals or activities), Trail Blazers will provide a customized price quote.
4. If you wish to move forward, Trail Blazers will:

• Issue a contract.
• Schedule a planning conversation (about one hour) to finalize program design, schedule, and learning objectives.

5. Trail Blazers checks in with you one month, two weeks, and one week before your dates to help with preparation.
6. Each participant must complete a release form (provided in advance) so staff can review medical, dietary, and accommodation needs.

How to inquire

• Phone (teambuilding): 888-494-1887
• Email: Teambuilding@TrailBlazers.org

Organizations should contact Trail Blazers directly for current availability, pricing, and program design.

Alumni communications

• Alumni can sign up on the Trail Blazers website to receive alumni updates and news by email.

Recurring alumni events

Trail Blazers highlights several ongoing alumni-focused events:

• Operation Muscle: A volunteer day in May to help prepare the Mashipacong Estate camp for the season.
• Friends of Trail Blazers Day: A gathering to reconnect with the community.
• Labor Day Weekend Camp Out: A weekend event at camp for alumni and friends.

Details, dates, and registration for these events are shared via the website and alumni communications.

Archives and history

Trail Blazers maintains archival material celebrating its history and culture, including:

• Videos and photos.
• Camp songs.
• Stories and written memories.
• Information on natural history at camp.
• Historical documents, such as scrolls and materials related to Life Camps.
• Recipes and traditions (for example, classic camp foods and stories of the Mashipacong Estate).

Alumni can explore these resources through the website's alumni and archives sections.

Alumni profiles

• Trail Blazers features alumni profiles organized by era (e.g., 1960–1979, 1980–1999, 2000–2019, 2020–present).
• There is also an In Memoriam section recognizing alumni and community members who have passed away.

Sharing your story or materials

Alumni who wish to share photos, stories, memories, or submit an alumni profile can contact the Trail Blazers development and communications team via the email address listed on the Alumni page of the website.

Alumni looking for the latest event details, volunteer opportunities, or ways to give back should refer to the Alumni section of https://trailblazers.org or contact the organization directly.

Families should review the "Is Your Child Ready" information on the Trail Blazers day camp page for additional readiness guidance.

Grouping with friends

• During enrollment, families select a smallcamp group.
• To be grouped with a friend, coordinate so both campers enroll in the same smallcamp group and session.

What to pack each day

Day camp is outdoors all day. Campers should come prepared with:

• Hiking backpack:
• All day camp campers receive a hiking pack from Trail Blazers.
• Packs are fitted to campers and are expected to be used each day.
• Lunch and snacks: Enough food for a full, active day.
• Water bottle: A refillable bottle is required; packs can also hold water bladders. Staff refill bottles frequently.
• Change of clothes: A full change (including for older campers) is recommended since campers may get wet or dirty.
• Rain gear: Waterproof jacket and appropriate shoes when light rain is forecast. During extended heavy rain or thunderstorms, groups move to indoor locations.
• Sun protection: Sunscreen (even on cloudy days) and a hat.
• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes: Comfortable, ideally water-resistant shoes for active days walking around the park.
• Layers: Light sweater or long-sleeve shirt for cool mornings or evenings.

Drop-off and pick-up

• Drop-off: 8:30–9:00 a.m.
• Early drop-off is available from 8:00 a.m. for a flat fee per week.
• Regular pick-up: 3:30–4:00 p.m.
• Pick-up is at the same location as drop-off.
• Aftercare: Available until 6:00 p.m. for a weekly flat fee.
• Aftercare takes place at the same location as regular pick-up and is on a rolling basis; campers can be picked up any time up to 6:00 p.m.

For exact early-drop-off and aftercare fees, session dates, and locations, refer to the Trail Blazers website or registration portal.

Hiking pack pick-up

• (Day camp families only.) Hiking packs are available:
• At the administrative office (495a Flatbush Avenue) on weekdays during set hours prior to camp; and
• At camp drop-off locations on Mondays.

Payments and scholarships for day camp

• Trail Blazers uses a tiered pricing system; families select the tier that best reflects their household situation, and tuition is adjusted automatically during registration.
• Payment plans are available through the registration system, with an initial non-refundable deposit and monthly installments through early May.
• Additional scholarships may be available for families who identify as the lowest tier (Tier 1):
• Families first enroll in the program and pay the deposit.
• A supplemental scholarship form appears in the enrollment profile.
• The registration team reviews the form and lets families know how much financial aid can be offered.
• Due to limited funds, Trail Blazers cannot guarantee matching every request and cannot provide free camp.

For the most current information about tuition tiers, payment plan terms, and scholarship availability, families should consult the Trail Blazers website or contact the registration team.

Smallcamp structure

• Campers live and participate in camp life in smallcamp groups.
• A smallcamp refers both to the physical place where campers live and to their core group.
• Smallcamps typically include 8–10 campers, 2–3 dedicated group leaders, and additional support staff who join as needed.
• Smallcamps do most activities together, including meals, swimming, hiking, crafts, games, chores, and campfires.

Living arrangements

• There are no cabins at Trail Blazers.
• Everyone lives in canvas-covered shelters such as hogans, teepees, covered wagons, or platform tents.
• Campers usually share a shelter with 2–3 other campers and sleep in a slightly-smaller-than-twin-sized bed with sheets, blankets, and a pillow.
• Counselors ensure that mosquito nets are securely tucked in each night.

Bathrooms and showers

• Each smallcamp has a non-flushing latrine toilet and running water for washing hands and faces, drinking, and brushing teeth.
• Campers have daily access to hot showers in one of the camp's shower houses.

Typical daily elements

While each smallcamp co-designs its own experience, common daily elements include:

• Morning meetings for goal setting and getting ready for the day.
• Meals.
• Capers (individual or group chores).
• Swimming.
• Showers.
• "Solo" time (restful downtime or check-ins with group leaders).
• Unstructured play.
• Pow wow (evening campfire for games, songs, reflection, and planning ahead).

Activities

Groups can choose from a wide range of activities, which may include:

• Hiking and backpacking.
• Biking and mountain biking.
• Canoeing and boating.
• Archery.
• Low ropes and high ropes elements.
• Wood shop and building projects.
• Arts and crafts (both structured projects and free-creation time).
• Nature exploration and gardening.
• Community service projects.
• Skits, plays, poetry, songs, and group games.

Campers help select and prioritize activities so each smallcamp experience is unique.

Food and nutrition

• Trail Blazers serves healthy, home-cooked meals each day.
• Meals are not pre-prepared or frozen; there is no deep fryer.
• As a New Jersey Summer Food Service Program site, the camp follows and exceeds federal guidelines for meal components.
• Many meals are vegetarian; typically, meat is served only once per day.
• Candy, juice, and soda are not served.
• A "three bite rule" encourages campers to try new foods by taking three bites before deciding if they want more.
• Breakfasts may include items such as pancakes, eggs, waffles, bagels, toast, fruit, yogurt, and cereal.
• Packed lunches might include hummus, cold-cut wraps or sandwiches, bean salads, fruit, and vegetables.
• Dinners can include items such as ginger sesame chicken, three-bean chili, baked potatoes, tacos, vegetables, and a Thanksgiving-style feast on the last full day of the session.
• Snacks such as pretzels, granola bars, or fruit are available during the day.
• Milk is served at every meal.
• Camp is peanut-free and can usually accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions due to allergies, religious requirements, or personal preference.

Special needs and accessibility

• Trail Blazers is not a dedicated special needs camp, but small group sizes and high staff-to-camper ratios allow many needs to be accommodated.
• The camp cannot provide one-on-one supervision or individualized programming required by some children with pronounced physical or emotional limitations.
• Families whose child has significant physical limitations, requires constant medical attention or medication management, or may not be able to participate fully in a very active outdoor program should speak with the Camp Director in advance to determine whether Trail Blazers is an appropriate fit.

Wildlife and safety

• The camp is located in the woods of New Jersey and shares space with local wildlife (e.g., chipmunks, raccoons, deer, black bears, mosquitos, and ticks).
• Safety measures include regular tick checks and a strict rule that no food is allowed in living areas.
• Staff receive training from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Fish and Wildlife on managing wildlife encounters.

Vagabond trips

"Vagabond" is a 1–4 night trip where campers use their developing wilderness and survival skills and strengthen group bonds.

Vagabond locations vary by age, skill level, and program, and can include:

• On-property overnights on the Trail Blazers site for younger campers.
• Appalachian Trail backpacking trips (typically 2–4 nights) with camping at designated sites.
• Delaware River canoe trips (2–4 nights) with riverside camping.
• Stokes State Forest bike trips (2–4 nights) with overnights at pre-selected campsites.
• Stony Creek Farmstead trips (4–5 nights) that combine hiking, farm exploration, and living and working on the farm.

Staff qualifications and training

• Staff are recruited from across the U.S. and internationally, with a focus on passion for working with youth outdoors.
• Hiring includes interviews, reference checks, and background checks.
• Staff receive 2–3 weeks of pre-camp training in all aspects of the Trail Blazers program.
• Lifeguards are American Red Cross certified and re-checked on site.
• All staff are trained in basic first aid; each group includes staff certified in CPR and First Aid.
• The camp wellness team operates under the guidance of a licensed physician and has on-site medical staff (such as an RN, EMT, and wilderness first aid–trained staff) available 24/7.

Communication with campers during sessions

• Families do not speak with campers by phone during camp sessions.
• During the first days of camp, campers send a letter or postcard home.
• Families are encouraged to send letters or pre-stamped, pre-addressed postcards and envelopes.
• Care packages may include items such as socks, stickers, word games, and magazines; food and candy are not allowed in living areas.
• Families can email a camper inbox to have messages printed and delivered with daily mail.
• Camp sends regular email updates with information about the group, activities, and photos.
• Families with concerns or questions can call the camp office to speak with a member of the leadership team.

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