What to Bring to Summer Camp

Be Prepared for Adventure

What to Bring to Camp

To help your camper have the best week possible, here's a comprehensive packing list for summer camp at Bear Lake.

Essentials

Clothing

Everyday wear: 6-7 sets of casual clothes (t-shirts, shorts, sweats)
Sleepwear: Pajamas for each night
Underwear & socks: One pair for each day, plus extras
Swimwear: At least 2 swimsuits (they may not dry overnight)
Warm layers: Sweatshirt or jacket for cool evenings
Rain gear: Light rain jacket or poncho
Closed-toe shoes: Athletic shoes for activities
Water shoes or sandals: For swimming and waterfront activities

Bedding & Linens

Sleeping bag or twin sheets and blanket
Pillow and pillowcase
Towels: 2-3 bath towels and 1-2 beach towels
Washcloth

Note: bunks are provided in cabins - just bring your bedding!

Toiletries

Soap and shampoo
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Bug spray
Personal hygiene products
Brush or comb
Lip balm with SPF
Trash bag for dirty laundry

Medications

All medications in original containers
Give medications to the camp nurse upon arrival
Include a written list of dosages and times

Camp nurse will dispense all medications according to your schedule.

Recommended Items

Faith & Personal Items

Bible and journal
Reading materials for quiet time
Stationery and stamps for writing home

Outdoor Gear

Water bottle (reusable, labeled with name)
Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
Backpack or daypack for carrying items
Baseball cap or sun hat
Sunglasses

Optional Fun Items

Camera (disposable or basic digital)- no pictures inside cabins please
Musical instruments (acoustic only - check with camp first)
Craft supplies for free time
Playing cards or board games
Stuffed animal or comfort item for younger campers

Money

Snack Shack operates on a debit system, so there is no need for campers to have cash with them during the week

What NOT to Bring

For the safety and benefit of all campers, please DO NOT PACK the following items:

Electronics

Cell phones (parents will be contacted if needed)
Tablets, iPads, or laptops
Handheld gaming devices
Smart watches (basic watches are fine)
Bluetooth speakers or headphones

Help your camper disconnect from screens and connect with friends!

Prohibited Items

Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives)
Alcohol, tobacco, vaping devices, or illegal substances
Fireworks or explosives
Inappropriate media (movies, music, books with mature content)
Expensive jewelry or cash
Food or drinks (dietary needs handled by camp kitchen)
Pets

Packing Tips

Before You Pack

Label everything with your camper's name (permanent marker or name labels)
Pack in a duffel bag rather than hard-sided luggage (easier to store in cabins)
Use a checklist while packing and have your camper help
Keep medications separate to hand directly to camp nurse

Pro Tips

Pack extra underwear and socks - they have a way of disappearing!
Don't overpack - campers won't need a different outfit for every activity
Include a stamped, addressed postcard for your camper to send home
Bring clothes that can get messy - camp is an adventure!

What We Provide

You don't need to bring:

Meals and snacks (please contact us if your child has specific dietary restrictions)
Program equipment (sports gear, craft supplies, etc.)
Life jackets (available at waterfront)
Bedding frames (cots/bunks provided in cabins)
Toilet paper and hand soap (provided in bathrooms)

Lost & Found

Labeling & Lost Items

Label EVERYTHING with your camper's full name
Lost items are placed in the Lost & Found during camp
Unclaimed items are donated to charity 30 days after camp ends
Check the cabin and Lost & Found thoroughly before departure

Questions?

If you're unsure about whether to pack something specific, please contact us at info@bearlakecamp.com or call (260) 636-7656.

Register for Camp

We look forward to seeing your camper this summer!