How Summer Camp Can Help Your Child Build Lifelong Connections

Preparing your child(ren) for Brookwoods, Deer Run, or Moose River Outpost involves more than just packing fun clothes and activity gear. Parents want peace of mind knowing their child(ren) has the right summer camp safety gear and health essentials to stay comfortable, healthy, and protected throughout their session. This camp safety and health checklist should help guide you as you determine what to pack for summer camp. Additionally, take adequate time to review the summer camp packing list to ensure you pack the right amount of items for your child(ren).

This includes sun defense, personal hygiene, and having the right items in their bag so campers can focus on what matters most; the relationships with other campers and having a blast at camp. At Christian Camps and Conferences Inc, we want families to feel confident and prepared before their child(ren) heads off for an unforgettable camp experience.

Essential Camp Safety and Health Checklist:

1. Sunscreen

We spend the majority of our time at camp outdoors, and particularly down at the waterfront, which means campers need reliable defense against UV. Pack broad-spectrum sunscreen with an appropriate SPF rating (30 or higher is ideal). Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, or even UV blocking clothing for extended time in the sun.

2. Insect Repellent

Whether your camper is on property, or on their overnight hiking trip, that most likely means sharing spaces with mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs. Send your camper(s) with age appropriate insect repellent, teach them how to apply it, and remind them to use it especially before heading into wooded, or high grassy areas. This is a helpful item for them to have as a part of their overnight camp packing list.

3. Waterbottle

At camp, we are very active and therefore hydration is important in order to ensure a successful camp experience. A durable, reusable water bottle with your camper’s name on it makes it easy to sip water during hikes, activities, and daily time around camp. If you forget a water bottle, you can purchase one of our Brookwoods, Deer Run, or Moose River Outpost nalgene bottles from the camp store!

4. Personal Medications

If your child(ren) relies on prescription medications or over-the-counter medications, ensure they are brought to camp on check-in day and noted on your child’s medical form. Our medical team is not legally allowed to dispense any medications that are not in an original, marked container. Additionally, please communicate relevant medical details with the camp medical staff before arrival.

5. Camp First Aid Essentials

Our camp health center is equipped to respond to a variety of injuries or illnesses. Our camp cabins are also equipped with small packages of adhesive

bandages for small scrapes etc. Other items your child could bring with them might include lip balm with spf, handsanitizer, and other basic personal hygiene supplies. This allows for quick access to quick comfort measures throughout their time at Brookwoods, Deer Run, or Moose River Outpost.

6. Personal Hygiene Supplies

Pack essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, deodorant, and other personal hygiene products. Also encourage your camper to keep up with their personal hygiene and individual care, as it helps them stay healthy and comfortable throughout their stay at our camp.

7. Weather-Appropriate Clothing

We do a lot of activities outdoors at camp! Weather can change quickly and we are committed to doing most activities rain or shine, assuming the conditions are still safe for campers. Include items like rain gear, extra socks, and clothing appropriate for the event of rain.

8. Protective Footwear

At camp, we do a variety of activities; which will require a variety of footwear. Pack closed-toe shoes for your campers; shoes that will be comfortable for walking in, activity specific shoes, a sturdy pair of hiking boots, as well as sandals where appropriate. Additionally, a pair of waterproof footwear will be nice if wet conditions are anticipated.

9. Emergency Contact Information

Make sure you have completed all the necessary forms required for camp and that camp has up-to-date emergency contact information, in addition to any relevant health history information. Parents should review required forms and medical documentation before their child’s arrival to camp.

10. Activity-Specific Safety Gear

Most of the equipment needed for camp is provided! However, sometimes campers like to bring their own specialized safety gear such as a personal floatation device, a helmet, or horseback riding equipment. Check the camp’s packing list before purchasing or packing specialized items as we may already provide those items.

Like many things, the right preparation can allow your child to feel confident, and comfortable as they arrive to camp. Getting these safety basics squared away lets you breathe a little easier- and lets your child(ren) focus on building relationships, try new activities, and create memories that last a lifetime.

If you’re getting ready for camp and have any questions about health forms, medical check-in or packaging rules, reach out to our team anytime!