Packing List
Gear Up for the Outdoors
Directors’ Tips for Packing
No weather is bad weather with the right gear.
At Camp Hidden Meadows, Tony and Stacie believe in “Liquid Sunshine.” This means being prepared with the right gear to keep the fun going. Your camper will need a waterproof rain jacket or poncho, as well as rain boots or water shoes. We recommend Crocs with a backstrap for water shoes. Crocs are a Camp Hidden Meadows favorite.
Keep it light!
Lightweight gear is the best for adventuring in the outdoors. Where possible, avoid packing anything very heavy, such as hiking boots and heavy camp trunks or luggage.
No need to overpack or buy anything new or expensive for camp. Laundry service is provided once each week for campers staying for two weeks or more.
Break in those hiking boots at home!
If your camper plans to bring hiking boots, break them in at home. Breaking in a pair of boots requires time— there’s no shortcut! What to look for in a hiking boot? Basics include ankle protection and support, good tread, and a comfortable fit that allows them to be worn with heavy socks. Whether you choose leather or man-made material, wear them at home or school for several days.
Label Everything…
…and we mean everything! You can buy individual name labels through our friends at Oliver’s Labels. We also find a permanent marker works well for clothing items as well as non-clothing items. Campers bring many of the same items to camp. Labeling their belongings ensures that, if found, it will be returned to the correct place. Sentimental, special, or expensive items, such as jewelry, should be left at home.
Directors’ Tips for Packing
No weather is bad weather with the right gear.
At Camp Hidden Meadows, Tony and Stacie believe in “Liquid Sunshine.” This means being prepared with the right gear to keep the fun going. Your camper will need a waterproof rain jacket or poncho, as well as rain boots or water shoes. We recommend Crocs with a backstrap for water shoes. Crocs are a Camp Hidden Meadows favorite.
Keep it light!
Lightweight gear is the best for adventuring in the outdoors. Where possible, avoid packing anything very heavy, such as hiking boots and heavy camp trunks or luggage.
No need to overpack or buy anything new or expensive for camp. Laundry service is provided once each week for campers staying for two weeks or more.
Break in those hiking boots at home!
If your camper plans to bring hiking boots, break them in at home. Breaking in a pair of boots requires time— there’s no shortcut! What to look for in a hiking boot? Basics include ankle protection and support, good tread, and a comfortable fit that allows them to be worn with heavy socks. Whether you choose leather or man-made material, wear them at home or school for several days.
Label Everything…
…and we mean everything! You can buy individual name labels through our friends at Oliver’s Labels. We also find a permanent marker works well for clothing items as well as non-clothing items. Campers bring many of the same items to camp. Labeling their belongings ensures that, if found, it will be returned to the correct place. Sentimental, special, or expensive items, such as jewelry, should be left at home.
The Packing List and these Directors’ Tips will help you and your camper be prepared for an amazing Camp Hidden Meadows experience!
Packing List Essentials
Clothing
- 8 t-shirts
- 10 pairs of socks
- 10 pairs of underwear
- 1 pair of jeans
- 1 pair long pants (jeans or other)
- 3 pairs of shorts
- 2 bathing suits
- 1 sweatshirt or jacket
- 1 long-sleeved shirt
- Waterproof Rain Jacket or Poncho
- Pajamas
- 1-2 pairs of tennis shoes/hiking shoes. Be prepared to get at least one pair wet or muddy.
- For Earth Expeditions: 1 pair hiking shoes or boots that have been well broken in before camp.
- 1 pair water shoes/sandals. We recommend sturdy sandals with toe protection and a backstrap. Crocs are highly recommended!
- Flip flops may be used around the cabin or at the shower house. Not for activities.
Bedding & Linens
- 1 fitted twin sheet
- 1 sleeping bag
- 1 pillow with pillow case
- 1 bath towel
- 1 beach towel
Horseback Riding Essentials
Only required if your camper is enrolled in horseback riding.
- Long pants/jeans or jodhpurs
- Riding boots: a boot with a smooth sole and a definite heel.
- We provide helmets. If you already have your own, you are welcome to bring it.
Other Equipment
- Laundry bag – clearly labeled with camper’s name
- Flashlight or Headlamp and extra batteries
- Toiletries – travel size soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, etc. Camp Store sells a few basic essentials!
- Water bottle or canteen – any unbreakable material – not glass!
- Small backpack or daypack
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
Optional Items
- Additional sun protection such as a Hat or Sunglasses
- 100% cotton, white t-shirt (for tie-dye)
- Camera – LABEL it!!
- Books, magazines, cards, small games
- Pre-addressed envelopes
- Stamps
- Stationery
- Cash – ONLY for campers going on Earth Expeditions or our White Water Rafting Trip. No other cash is needed at camp and should not be kept in the cabins.