If this is your first time going to overnight summer camp, we’ve got ten things you’ll need to know! From packing must-haves to pre-camp jitters to how you find a “new you” — this Ten Things You Need to Know as a First-Time Camper will shed some light on how to prep for the overnight camp experience!
- Packing is an art. Crocs, rainboots, two pairs of sneakers, flops – ask any camper and they will tell you that footwear is key! Also, leave the big fluffy towels at home and bring the thin ones (they dry faster). But don’t take it from me, this camper-created packing list helps new campers pack for all the fun!
- You will belong on day one. On day one, you will not only be enjoying your first day of Camp, but you will belong to the Camp Jeanne d’Arc community and on your way to making lifelong friendships. How? You will become a member of your first cabin, you will pick a feather to join the Les Pucelles or Jolis Coeurs team, you will dine at a mixed-age family-style meal tables, and you will participate in rich traditions that foster a strong sense of belonging!
- You won’t miss your phone, I promise. As you turn in your cell phone at check-in, you might feel a little unsettled. I get it! You are used to Snap-chatting with your friends, texting your mom, and following trends on TikTok! But trust me, after a little while you will see that the interactions you have with your camp friends, the adventures, and peace that comes with a tech-free experience will be worth it!
- The food is tasty. So, I am not promising a deluxe dining experience, but I will say that camp food is pretty good. If you don’t like the hot option, there’s always sandwiches and a well-stocked salad bar. You may end up trying new things. Even if you used to be a “food can’t touch” kind of person, suddenly you might be scarfing down tacos, mixing meat with lettuce and cheese… who is this kid?! Plus, dessert is definitely a thing.
- You are about to learn dozens of songs you will sing for the rest of your life. Just ask any CJDA alum and they will totally confirm this to be 100% true!
- Skits and performances are part of the deal! It doesn’t really matter if you are the type to take center stage or the type to hide behind the curtains, because at Camp, all types of performers are celebrated! Putting yourself out there is part of the camp culture, and you might be surprised to see how at ease you can be in front of the crowd.
- Even experienced campers get homesick. It’s true, sometimes homesickness affects campers that have been at camp for years. Homesickness is normal and healthy. But the cool thing about Camp is that you have a built-in support system to help you through the hard times – counselors and cabinmates who care!
- Your cabinmates will become your summer sisters. Camp Jeanne d’Arc is a family! These friendships often last a lifetime. By enjoying this shared experience – shared activities, shared challenges, and shared emotions – Camp creates a foundation for a long-lasting relationship.
- You might discover a “new you!” Be prepared to feel like a different person at Camp. Camp has a funny way about bringing out qualities in yourself you never knew you had. Just roll with it! If you are not a leader at school, you might be one at camp. If you’re not a sports star, you might actually crush it in riflery. If you are not into drama at home, you might star in the Camp play. Be open to a new you!
- Camp is forever. The number one thing you need to know as a first-time camper is that this experience will stay with you forever. The friends, the memories, the skills, the confidence, the magic… Camp is forever.