Let’s Go to Camp!
By 4-H Agent Judy Parsons
The weather is getting warmer and it is the perfect time to start thinking about outdoor activities. Children need these outdoor activities to THRIVE. What better way to embrace the outdoors than to go camping.
Our 4-H program has many camping opportunities planned for this summer from day camps to overnight camps. Even if you cannot attend a group camp, there are many activities that you can do as a family to create that camping experience. You can go hiking, plan a scavenger hunt, look for animal tracks, or even dig up earthworms. There are so many things you can do outdoors, just use your imagination and go enjoy the outdoors. This is also a good time to make memories with your youth. Don’t forget to end your perfect outdoor experience with a fire and s’mores.
If you are planning to send your youth to a camp you may need this packing list which provides tips on essentials you need to pack and what you should leave at home to fully enjoy your camping experience.
Before you set out you need to know where to meet and when you are leaving, do not be late. You will also need to know where are you going. Are there any stops along the way that you may need some spending money for? Who are your emergency contacts and sponsors?
Essentials that you need to pack for camping:
- Clothing and Shoes – Know what the weather is like. Pack lightweight fabrics for warm weather and a breathable jacket for a cool night. You will need good walking or hiking shoes. If there are water sports involved, don’t forget your swim suit, water shoes and towel. Be sure to pack sleepwear for overnight camps
- Personal Care Items – Be selective with your personal care items and pack only the important basic necessities. Include items such as sunscreen, bug spray, towels, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, anti-itch ointment, deodorant, hand sanitizer, flashlight and any medications you need.
- Other camp necessities that may be on the camp list may be a sleeping bag, pillow, snacks, water bottle, hat and playing cards.
Things you do not need to pack for camping:
- Electronic – Leave your gadget sat home to get the most out of your camping experience. Most summer camps do not allow electronics.
- Valuables – Leave anything of value at home such a nice clothing, jewelry or anything you do not want lose or ruined.
While this is a starter list of items you should pack and not pack for your camp, it is important to check with your camp to see if there is anything specific you need to bring depending on the activities available.
The outdoors is a great place to explore and have fun. Youth can do this with their family or with friends at a 4-H Camp. Camping is a good way to make memories for a life time.
