Let me introduce myself

I'm Dara Pasternack, your Camp Expert for families in Bergen & Rockland County.

My first bunk

I started off at a camp that ultimately wasn't the right fit for me, but then moved to Camp Lenox where I spent 3 amazing summers as a camper and one year as a counselor. It quickly became my favorite place on earth—my camp friends are absolutely my forever best friends.

From camper to camp expert

I'm previously a corporate event planner. This background keeps me super organized and my attention to detail gives me unique insight into what makes each camper thrive and helps me match every child with their perfect summer program.

Ultimate camp highlight

My all-time favorite camp activity is Sun Down League - especially when I was captain and we had a winning season! I seriously bleed ORANGE & BLACK!

Why I love this job

I genuinely love all things summer and all things camp and I truly love connecting with families to help them find their best summer experience and forever summer home.

My home bunk

My husband and I met at Camp Lenox when I was 13 - though we didn't start dating until MANY years later.  Our oldest daughter was the first double alumni camper when she started in 2016. She had a wonderful experience there and is now heading off to college. Our younger daughter has been a camper there since 2021 and is living her best life living 10for2. Many of our closest friends are from our Camp Lenox days - they are friendships that never fade.

Why I feel camp is a valuable experience

Camp is a valuable experience because it gives kids the chance to be kids and offers them a chance to grow in ways they can’t at home or school. At sleep away camp, kids are away from their usual routines, which encourages them to make decisions on their own which helps develop independence and build confidence. Kids are growing up with screens in their faces and access to too much information, and camp gives them the time to unplug and be fully present and develop deep authentic friendships without pressure. I’ve seen shy campers become leaders, homesick ones become resilient, and everyone leave a little more confident, capable, and connected.