Camp Centennial Milestones

YMCA Camp Mason

Hardwick, NJ
Established: 1900
Camp Details

Camp Mason's story begins in 1900 when the Trenton/Mercer County YMCA organized its first season of residential summer camp at Camp Washington, near Washington's Crossing, NJ. Several years later the camp moved to Marshall Island (also known as Eagle Island) in the Delaware River and changed its name to Camp James J. Wilson. An epic flood inundated the island in 1955 and the camp was moved to its current location in Hardwick, NJ. Another name change accompanied the move: Camp Wilson became Central New Jersey YMCA Camps.

At this time the camp organized itself as an independent YMCA association, serving children from across the tri-state area. In the 1970's the camp's name was changed again to Camp Ralph S. Mason to honor the man who was instrumental in relocating and rebuilding the camp after the flood. Mr. Mason was a camper and staff member who grew up to serve as President of the Board of Trustees for 34 years. His two sons, Rip and Tom, remain involved with the camp to this day.

Today Camp Mason welcomes approximately 800 campers each summer to its 650-acre facility in the Delaware Water Gap. A western ranch program, extensive outdoor adventure opportunities, and popular teen leadership programs make Camp Mason an exceptional traditional resident camping experience for children and families from all walks of life.