How much money should I bring to camp?
Very little. There is usually no place to spend money at camp. If there is a camp store or canteen, your parents will put money there for you to spend.

 

Will I have ice cream at camp?
Yes. Most camps serve ice cream as dessert at some meals, at parties, and on special occasions.

 

Do I have to go to the doctor before I go to camp?
Probably. Most camps require a child to have a physical before camp. It is like the check-up you have before you play sports.

 

Will I need any shots to go to camp?
If all of your immunization shots are up to date, and most kid's are, you will not need any shots. If you are going to a travel camp that is leaving the United States, you should ask your camp director.

 

Can I be in a cabin with my friend?
Most likely yes, especially if your friend is your age. You must make this request to the camp director before camp starts. Both you and your friend should want to bunk together. If your friend is older or younger, it might not be possible.

 

Can I buy soda at camp?
Ask the camp director. Some camps have soda machines available to campers and some don't.

 

Can I call home?
Campers hear from their family and friends through the mail. Mail is delivered to you once a day. Parents like to read your letters as much as you like getting letters from them. Camps differ in their telephone rules. Check with the camp for more information.

 

Will I get homesick?
Just about everyone experiences different feelings when they are at camp, especially when they think about home. These feelings are normal. When you go to a new place it takes a few days to adjust. Once you get into the camp routine, camp will feel like "home." Talk about your feelings with your counselor. Making some new friends will help you enjoy camp.

 

Are there any books to read about overnight camp?
Yes, one good book about overnight camp is "Off to Camp" by Myra Pravda and Jeanne Weiland. Another one about deciding to go to camp is " Pinky and Rex Go To Camp" by J. Howe.

 

Should I take some books to camp?
Yes. Books with jokes and riddles, sports facts, short stories and several books that you enjoy reading. Comic books and magazines are good to pack or have your Mom send to you.

 

Do I need a flashlight?
Yes. You will be walking around in the dark. It is much darker at camp than in the city because there are no city lights.

 

Do I need a watch at camp?
Not really. Your counselors have watches. If you want a watch, be sure to take an inexpensive, waterproof one.

 

Do I have to make my bed?
Most camps require everyone to make their bed every morning. If you don't know how to put sheets on your bed and make it up, have your parents show you.

 

What's camp food like?
For the most part, good. Camps serve food that kids enjoy eating like pizza, tacos, spaghetti and meatballs, grilled cheese, etc. Most kids are pretty hungry at meals and like camp food.

 

What time do we have to get up in the morning?
Most camps begin wake-up between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m. Ask the camp director.

 

What are s'mores?
S'mores are a treat you make around the campfire. You roast marshmallows over the fire and put them between two graham crackers with a piece of chocolate. Yummy! They are so good you want "some more."

 

What is cabin inspection?
Your cabin is checked for health and safety reasons. The inspector looks to see if the beds are made, clothes put away, floor is swept, porch is clean, wet clothes are hung on the clothes line, and nothing is blocking the exit.

 

What do I do if I feel sick?
All camps have a place to go if you are not feeling well. Some camps call the building the health center, others the infirmary. There is usually a nurse or health worker there to help you. Be sure to tell your counselor when you are ill.

When is "song session?"
Usually after meals. This is a good time for the song leader to teach new camp songs. You will sing songs around the campfire, when you are hiking, and just sitting around the cabin. By the way, here's some info on being a great camper and having the most fun possible!

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