Session 8: Sleepaway Camp 2025
Description
DPF 4-H Camp is a 140 acre co-ed sleep-away camp for campers ages 8-16 Our camp is located on the majestic Long Island Sound in Riverhead, NY. Our camp is accredited by the American Camp Association and licensed and inspected by the Suffolk County Department of Health.

Being one of the oldest 4-H camps in the state, we are dedicated to ensuring your child’s safety and fun while offering high quality 4-H educational programs. All in an environment that allows for personal growth in which diverse youth and adults reach their fullest potential as capable, competent, and caring citizens.

All this while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Dates:
8/18/2025 - 8/23/2025
Ages:
Grades 2nd - 12th
Cost:
$840.00
Availability:
This session has openings
Registration will end on 8/15/2025.
Activities
Aquatics (Beach) (DB)
Life is peachy at the beachy! Whether you’re enjoying the water, relaxing on the sand, or diving into exciting activities, our stunning beachfront on the Long Island Sound has something for everyone! Our certified staff are here to help campers improve their confidence and technique in the water, offering tips for those who want to refine their swimming strokes. For a unique challenge, experienced swimmers can participate in our Jr. Lifeguard class, offered during a designated week. The fun doesn’t stop at the water’s edge! Campers can join in on games like Marco Polo, Sharks and Minnows, beach volleyball and sports , beach exploration, sandcastle building, and creative beach-themed nature crafts. This program blends relaxation, skill-building, and unforgettable beachside adventures. (Note: This is a double-block class.)
Archery
Take your shot in our Archery program, certified by NYS 4-H Shooting Sports, and explore the art of precision and focus on our full archery range. With a variety of targets, including traditional bull’s-eye stands, hanging dice, and stand-up animal figures, campers will have plenty of opportunities to hone their skills. Under the guidance of a certified instructor, campers will learn proper bowmanship techniques and safety protocols to improve their aim and confidence. To make practice even more engaging, we incorporate fun archery games like Tic-Tac-Toe, V-Shot, and Shoot Your Fears. Campers can showcase their progress in a friendly weekly competition, earning bragging rights and special prizes. For those who excel and want to take their skills further, there’s even an opportunity to participate in the NYS 4-H competition. This program blends skill-building, fun, and a chance to achieve personal and team shooting goals!
Farm & Agriculture
Step into the beauty of our 40-acre farm and experience the wonders of agriculture firsthand! Campers will work alongside our farm educators and farmer, gaining hands-on experience in growing vegetables and flowers while learning about sustainable farming practices. They’ll also care for a variety of farm animals, feeding, grooming, and helping to maintain their living spaces. Each summer brings a unique selection of animals, with past residents including pigs, cows, guinea hens, chickens, roosters, rabbits, ducks, sheep, horses and even goats! While some animals vary by season, our goats, chickens, and rabbits are with us year-round, offering consistent opportunities for interaction and care. Additionally, campers can explore our Farm-to-Table program, offered on specific weeks. This special experience highlights the journey of fresh farm produce, teaching campers how food goes from seed to plate in the most delicious way possible.
High Ropes (DB)
Do you love the thrill of climbing and testing your limits? Our High-Ropes program is just what you’re looking for! Featuring 10 incredible elements, including a three-face rock wall (Jacob’s Ladder, The Wall, and X Factor) and a 50-meter zip line, this course is designed to empower campers, boost confidence, and promote personal growth. Each day, new elements and challenges await—whether it’s racing against friends in a speed climb, teaming up on Jacob’s Ladder for a two-person teamwork challenge, or conquering the balancing log and multi-vines. Our certified staff ensure that all participants learn safe climbing techniques and build their skills while pushing past fears and celebrating successes. This double-block program offers the ultimate adventure, combining excitement, teamwork, and personal achievement. (Note: This program has an additional fee of $150.)
$75.00
Junior Lifeguarding (DB)
Are you interested in lifeguarding but are not quite old enough to guard yet? This class is designed to give 12-16 YO's a sneak peek into what it takes to become a great lifeguard. We cover all basics of swimming and also show you some techniques in rescues you can do from land and water to help and stay safe while doing so. There are a lot of opportunities for employment on an Island like ours. This course is not a certifying course but youth will leave this class with a completion of practice sheet and stronger knowledge and swimming skills of basic water safety. (Note: this is a double block class)
Leadership in Training (LIT) (DB)
The Leadership in Training (L.I.T) program is designed for campers aged 14-16 who want to build leadership skills and grow as future leaders. Leadership is a core value at camp, encouraging participants to learn, lead, and collaborate as part of a team. L.I.T campers still experience all the fun of camp, participating in regular classes for half their schedule. The other half is dedicated to leadership training, where they develop workplace and life skills. For example, L.I.T's participate in “shadowing,” where they observe an instructor, assist in teaching, and eventually lead part of a class. This hands-on approach helps them build confidence, teaching skills, and group management experience. The program also supports campers preparing for the workforce or aiming to become Camp Counselors. Those who complete the program, demonstrating good conduct and full participation, earn a Certificate of Completion. (Note: This is a double-block class.) LIT offers a large amount of support for those campers interested in joining the workforce and in becoming a great Camp Counselor, Finishing this course does award a certificate of completion based on good conduct and participation and completion within all aspects of program. (Note: this is a double block class)
Nature & Ecology
Dive into the wonders of the natural world with our dynamic program! Campers will explore the ecosystems of plants and animals, learning about biology, ecology, and conservation. Using terrariums and aquariums, they’ll safely observe wildlife behaviors before returning animals to their habitats. Adventurous hikes uncover geological features, soil science, and aquatic ecosystems, while hands-on activities introduce campers to topics like botany, microbiology, and environmental science. As part of the Cornell community, we’re proud to incorporate ornithology, offering incredible opportunities for birdwatching and learning about avian biology. This program makes science exciting and accessible.
Outdoor Cooking (ODC) (DB)
For campers who love the outdoors and a delicious challenge, Outdoor Cooking offers a hands-on experience in preparing meals over an open flame. From safely building and maintaining a fire to cleaning, prepping, and cooking ingredients, campers will learn practical skills that translate both outdoors and in the kitchen. With a focus on preventing food waste and maintaining hygiene, participants will gain the confidence to create tasty campfire meals while trying out unique recipes. This program is perfect for young chefs eager to wow their friends with fire-cooked delicacies. (Note: This is a double-block class.)
Performing Arts-Music
Get ready for a week of rhythm, melody, and creativity! In our Performing Arts – Music program, campers will dive into the world of music through hands-on experiences with various instruments. Whether learning a new instrument or improving existing skills, this program is designed to inspire creativity and musical expression. Campers are encouraged to bring their own instruments (guitar, horns, etc.), taking responsibility for their belongings. The week culminates in an exciting performance where campers showcase their talents for the entire camp, sharing the joy of music with their peers. Performing Arts rotates weekly between Music and Drama, offering campers a chance to explore their creative passions and shine in their unique way.
Sports & Recreation
Get ready to move and have a blast with our Sports & Recreation program! Our energetic staff, skilled in a wide range of sports including soccer, baseball, rugby, tennis, lacrosse, kickball, volleyball, Ultimate Frisbee, Zumba, aerobics, yoga, and more, ensure there’s something for everyone. Special activities like sand sports and Olympic-style games are also offered during select weeks, adding variety and excitement to the program. Each session begins with a warm-up to prepare and stretch safely. Campers then dive into skill-building activities and mini-games like World Cup or Knock Out to practice techniques in a fun, engaging way. Finally, they test their new skills in full games, combining learning with friendly competition. Campers may bring their own sports equipment to enhance their experience but are responsible for their belongings. This program emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and, most importantly, having fun on the field! (Note: Campers should wear appropriate athletic attire and footwear.)
Visual Arts
Our program offers a number of projects to campers eager to get in touch with their creative side. Our talented staff lead classes such as fine arts, basket weaving, jewelry making, leather crafts, felt pillow and stuffed animals, comic books, tie dye, string art, camp beautification, do it yourself fashion and much, much more. Campers will make several projects throughout the week and then will be able to take them home to show off their skill! Campers can also work on projects for the Long Island Fair and compete to win ribbons and showcase their work. Projects are subject to change based on weekly offerings
Discounts
$100 for 100th
Early discount for 100th Anniversary through 12/31/2024
$100.00
Early Bird - Sleepaway 2025
Through March 15, 2025
$50.00
Nassau County Resident$25.00
Sleepaway 1st Time DPF Camper 2025
1st time camper discount for sleepaway ((Note: Can only be used for 1 week)
$50.00