02/09/2026
New leadership for the 2026 Spring Lake Heights Summer Recreation Camp! Excited to what David will bring to the camp!
2026 Summer Camp Update:
Spring Lake Heights is welcoming back one of its own in a leadership role this summer. David Smith has been named the new Director of Summer Recreation. A lifelong Spring Lake Heights resident, Smith’s connection to the program and the community runs deep — from his early days attending Spring Lake Heights Elementary School and Manasquan High School to now leading the very program that helped shape his summers growing up.
Smith is a recent graduate of Seton Hall University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with a minor in Sports Media. His academic background, paired with hands-on experience working with youth, positions him well to guide the Summer Recreation program with both structure and heart. He previously served as a Spring Lake Heights Summer Camp Counselor, a Recreation Volunteer Basketball Coach, and currently works as a substitute teacher at Spring Lake Heights Elementary School, giving him a strong understanding of how to connect with kids of all ages in our community.
“I’m incredibly excited and grateful for the opportunity to direct this year’s Summer Recreation program. This program meant a lot to me growing up, and I’m passionate about creating that same sense of excitement and fun for today’s campers.” Smith emphasized that his number one priority is camper morale and safety, while also fostering meaningful relationships and lasting memories in an environment that makes camp a place kids look forward to attending every day.
Looking ahead, Smith plans to maintain popular traditions such as mini golf trips — likely at Jenkinson’s this year — and ice skating, while also exploring new experiences to enhance the program, including a potential Jersey Shore BlueClaws game. He also cannot wait to have Jersey Shore Dance Academy and Manasquan Baseball, to also enhance the camper experience. He welcomes suggestions from families and the community on additional trips and activities. As he prepares for the summer, Smith is eager to hire camp counselors who bring strong intrapersonal skills, genuinely enjoy working with kids, and share the goal of ensuring every camper walks away with a positive, memorable experience.
With deep roots in Spring Lake Heights and a clear vision for the future, Smith is committed to delivering a Summer Recreation program built on fun, safety, connection, and community — one that campers and families can be proud to be a part of.
Please join us in welcoming David as our new Summer Camp Director.
