What to Bring to Summer Camp

Be Prepared for Adventure

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

Essentials

Clothing

  • Everyday wear: 6-7 sets of casual clothes (t-shirts, shorts, jeans)
  • 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
  • Sunday outfit: Something nice for Sunday worship service

Bedding & Linens

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

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

Toiletries

  • Soap and shampoo (consider biodegradable options)
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Deodorant
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+, reef-safe preferred)
  • Bug spray (DEET-free options available)
  • 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 for devotions
  • 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)
  • Musical instruments (acoustic only - check with camp first)
  • Sports equipment (basketball, frisbee, etc.)
  • Craft supplies for free time
  • Playing cards or board games
  • Stuffed animal or comfort item for younger campers

Money

  • Spending money for camp store (optional)
  • $20-40 recommended for t-shirts, hoodies, and snacks
  • Offering money if desired

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 large amounts of cash
  • Food or drinks (dietary needs handled by camp kitchen)
  • Pets (service animals must be arranged in advance)

Packing Tips

Before You Pack

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

Pro Tips

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

What We Provide

You don't need to bring:

  • Meals and snacks (all provided by camp kitchen)
  • 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@otyokwah.org or call (260) 636-7656.

Register for Camp

We look forward to seeing your camper this summer!