Top 10

Coming to Camp Kanata is a fun and exciting time. But new or first-time campers can be nervous about what to expect or what to bring. Our camp staff have come up with the top 10 things all new campers (and new parents) should know before they come to overnight camp at Camp Kanata. 

1. Bring sunscreen and use it!

There’s nothing worse than getting a sunburn at Camp, so be sure to pack your sunscreen and reapply throughout the day. Your counselors will be sure to help remind you!

2. Try new things

Camp is about trying new things and keeping an open mind! There will be many opportunities to challenge yourself whether it’s learning to canoe, climbing the Alpine tower or strengthening your soccer skills. Don’t be scared to jump in and learn something new, you never know what you might enjoy!

3. Be yourself

At Camp, we want everyone to feel welcomed and encourage every person to be the best version of themselves. The best way to fit in at Camp is to be true to yourself!

4. A few must-have Camp items

We got some great suggestions on things to pack for Camp that you may not think of. Not all of them are necessary, but we wanted to share some great ideas that our Camp family shared with us. Here are a few of them: 

• A bag for your stuff during the day, something to hold a bathing suit/towel/extra shoes
• Shower shoes
• Flashlight
• Cheap sunglasses
• Water bottle
• Fan for the cabin that can clip to your bunk 
• Damprid for lockers
• Waterproof watch
• Bathmat next to the bunk to wipe feet of sand and dirt before bed

Additionally, check out our packing list so you can see what's needed for the session you'll be at Camp. 

5. Label everything

It’s a good idea to label everything so campers are able to keep track of their stuff. But, it’s probably best not to label socks or underwear, if they lose it around Camp it's likely better lost than found. As one Camp parent put it, “only put your kids’ names on items you actually want back”. 

6. It's okay to be nervous

Whether you’re a first-time camper or you’ve been coming for multiple summers, it’s normal to get nervous being away from home. Our counselors are trained to help campers get adjusted to Camp and feel comfortable. Usually, after a day or two campers are having so much fun they wish they could stay for the whole summer. 

Parents, check out a new page on our website about what you can do to help ensure your child will thrive this summer. 

7. What to bring for Rest Period

Each afternoon we have rest period. Campers are encouraged to relax from the busy day and take time to nap/journal/read or do anything to help recharge for the rest of the day. Some items that are good to bring are:

• MP3 player (with no internet/camera access) 
• Books
• Coloring books 
• Card games
• Paper/stamps/envelopes/pens for letter writing 

8. Don't worry if you don't know anyone

It’s okay if you don’t know anyone before coming to Camp. When creating cabin assignments, we try to ensure that each cabin has more than one camper that is brand new or coming without a friend. Camp is a great place to make new friends, so don’t worry!

9. Come ready to embrace Camp culture 

At Camp, there are a lot of songs, cheers, skits and dances. Don’t be nervous if you don’t know the words or aren’t familiar with a certain Camp tradition. Your counselors and friends will be sure to explain everything, and after a few days, it will feel like second nature. 

10. Have fun

At the end of the day, remember that Camp is about having fun and making lifelong memories. Come ready to learn new things, make new friends and have fun, and it will be sure to be the best summer yet!