Posted by: Birch Rock Camp

The anticipation of summer camp brings excitement, questions, and perhaps a touch of anxiety for both parents and campers alike. Proper preparation is key to ensuring your son has the most enriching, memorable experience possible.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know to get your son ready for his summer adventure, from practical packing advice to emotional preparation and everything in between.

Your Camp Preparation Timeline

The journey to camp begins well before your son boards the bus to Birch Rock. We recommend starting preparations at least 4-6 weeks before the camp session begins. This timeline allows families to gather necessary items without last-minute stress and provides time for emotional preparation, especially for first-time campers.

Begin by reviewing our official Birch Rock Camp Packing List together with your son. This carefully curated list includes all necessities for daily activities, weekend excursions, and special occasions. Involving your son in this process builds excitement and gives him a sense of ownership over his camp experience.

As the departure date approaches, conversations will gradually shift toward the exciting adventures ahead while acknowledging any nervous feelings as perfectly normal.

Packing Essentials: What to Bring

The following items form the foundation of your son’s camp experience, ensuring he has everything needed to thrive in our outdoor environment.

Clothing for Daily Life

At Birch Rock Camp, we embrace a practical, casual dress code that supports active outdoor living. For most days, comfortable shorts, t-shirts, and appropriate footwear are all your son needs. Our environment emphasizes simplicity. There’s no need for expensive or trendy clothing that might be damaged during outdoor activities.

We do maintain certain uniform traditions that foster community spirit. Your son will need BRC maroon T-shirts (required for dinner each night, off-campus trips, and special occasions) and khaki shorts (required for Saturdays, Sundays, and special occasions).

Weather in Maine can be unpredictable, so we strongly recommend waterproof hiking boots and quality rain gear for trips and outdoor adventures. Please note that cut-off shorts, torn jeans, and body jewelry are not permitted at camp as we maintain a wholesome, traditional environment.

Sleeping Comforts

A good night’s sleep is essential for active days at camp. Each camper brings their own twin sheets, blankets, pillow, and towels, while beds and mattresses are provided. We recommend packing two sets of twin sheets, two to three blankets (as nights can be cool in Maine), and a personal pillow. For international campers, we can provide bedding and pillows upon request.

Familiar bedding can significantly ease the transition to camp life, particularly for younger boys or first-time campers. Remember to label all bedding items clearly with your son’s name using a quality laundry marker to prevent mix-ups during weekly laundry service.

Storage Solutions

A sturdy footlocker positioned at the foot of your son’s bunk serves as essential storage and living space organization. When packing the trunk, consider organizing items by category to help your son find what he needs throughout his stay. Place frequently used items near the top and less essential items toward the bottom. This simple organization can make a significant difference in your son’s daily comfort at camp.

What Not to Bring

One of Birch Rock Camp’s most valuable traditions is our technology-free environment. We request that all electronic devices remain at home.

This isn’t merely about limiting screen time; it’s about creating space for authentic connections with nature and peers. Beyond electronics, we ask that money, valuables, expensive jewelry, and food items remain at home.

Food attracts wildlife to cabins and can create inequities between campers. If these items are brought to camp, they’ll be collected upon arrival and returned at the end of the session.

How Often Will I Be Able to Communicate with My Son While He’s at Camp?

Birch Rock Camp maintains traditional communication methods that support camper independence. Parents receive updates through the camp blog and photos, while campers are encouraged to write letters home. This approach helps boys fully immerse themselves in the camp experience while maintaining family connections.

What If My Son Has Special Dietary Needs or Takes Medication?

Our experienced staff can accommodate most dietary restrictions and medication schedules. Please note all health information on registration forms and contact us directly with specific concerns so we can ensure proper arrangements are made before your son arrives.

What If My Son Becomes Homesick?

Our trained counselors are experienced in helping boys work through homesickness with empathy and encouragement. Most homesickness resolves within a few days as campers become engaged in activities and form connections with peers and staff.

What Final Preparations Should We Make the Day Before Camp?

The day before departure, go through a final checklist with your son: confirm all items are packed and labeled, review drop-off logistics or bus schedules, and ensure any required forms are completed. Have a relaxed, positive conversation about what to expect on arrival day.

Pack a small comfort item if appropriate, and make sure your son gets a good night’s sleep. Morning preparations should be unhurried, with a nutritious breakfast before setting off. These final steps help create a smooth transition from home to camp life, setting the tone for a successful summer adventure.

Ready, Set, Camp

Preparing for Birch Rock Camp is a journey that begins long before your son arrives in Maine. As you complete your preparations, remember that our experienced staff is always available to answer questions and provide guidance. The skills of independence, resilience, and community-building that your son will develop at camp extend far beyond the summer months, creating lasting memories and building character that will serve him throughout life.

Do you want to learn more tips on how to best prepare your son for summer camp in Maine? Get in touch with the staff at Birch Rock Camp in Waterford, ME, today!