What to Bring to Camp
Online Camp StoreWhat do I need to pack?
It is important to pack enough clothes for a full week, plus a few extra days. Laundry (see more below) is done every Friday for all in-camp sessions, except the Junior Camp session. There will be times that campers get wet or dirty and want to change. Please use the packing checklists below to help pack for camp accordingly. You can also check out the Pre-Camp Checklist video.
We suggest using a durable camp trunk (please remove removable wheels). Some campers bring traditional camp trunks, while others may bring the hard plastic style. Duffle bags work for the shorter sessions, too. Trunks/duffle bags are typically kept under the bottom bunk which has 19-1/2” of clearance, and the campers keep their clothes and belongings in the trunk/duffle bag. The following vendors have been very helpful to our camp families by providing great service and discounts:
- Everything Summer Camp
(800) 535-2057
Use codeBEHOLDin the camp code box on the home page of Everything Summer Camp’s website. - Rhino Trunks
Discount Code for 8% off:FCC2023(the code only works using the Summer Camp tab) - Kangaroo Cases
5% discount for Falling Creek families
The first packing list below is a suggested list for the June and Main sessions. Adjust slightly for the 2-Week session (there is not a dance during 2-Week Camp). There is a separate packing list for the Junior Camp session. Although not all campers choose to go on extended backpacking trips, campers in all sessions will go on cabin overnight campouts and need to carry a sleeping bag, rain gear, clothes, water bottle, their share of the group’s food, etc. A daypack or book bag is not large enough or sturdy enough to hold the necessary gear.
We have resources for camping gear listed in the sections below. If you do not want to purchase a frame backpack. ask a friend or neighbor if they have one your son can borrow.
We recommend local independent outdoor stores or stores like REI for purchasing overnight gear items such as backpack, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad.
Green & Gold Shirts
June, Main, and 2-Week Camp campers are assigned, by cabin, to a green or gold team upon arrival to camp. Team assignments are for all-camp games and some other in-camp activities.
The packing list for the June, Main, and 2-Week sessions includes (1) green and (1) gold t-shirt. Green and gold t-shirts brought from home are fine. The shirts may have writing on them—they do not have to be plain. If a camper does not have a shirt, it’s okay. Often colors are also denoted with paint or green/gold flag belts.
What should I bring for camping out?
Campers at Falling Creek have opportunities for spending a night or more in the great outdoors during each session. Overnight campouts, canoe trips on rivers or lakes, backpacking adventures, mountain biking, and several rock climbs are a big part of our program. These could be some of the most exciting times your son spends with us at camp. Your son will need a few basic items for these camping trips. We suggest borrowing this gear if you have a source.
Frame Backpack
The frame is critical because it lets the pack maintain the proper shape for holding camping gear and helps with weight distribution. Typical school-type day packs or book bags don’t have enough room for carrying a sleeping bag, clothes, and other camping gear. The pack needs to be large enough to fit about three soccer balls inside (30-40 liters), plus have outside pockets and places where a sleeping bag can fit. The frame may be external to the pack, but internal-framed packs are popular, easy to manage, and take up less space. Lastly, be sure that the straps fit your son. Some examples of internal frame backpacks that are also adjustable for growing boys are: REI Tarn 40 (liters), Deuter Fox 30 or 40, or the Osprey Ace 38.
Sleeping Bag
Hollofill, Polarguard, or some other synthetic fill are recommended for sleeping bags for summer out-of-camp trips. Be wary of down or cotton as wet down or cotton, in a sleeping bag or on a camper’s body, is cold and miserable. The sleeping bag should fit into a stuff sack. When stuffed, it should be about the size of a watermelon or smaller since it will be carried in or attached to the backpack. A temperature rating down to 40 degrees is adequate.
Rain Gear
A good rain jacket is a must at camp. It goes over fleece to keep the wind and water away. Jackets, sweaters, and hats made of fleece retain their warmth even when wet. Again, please stay away from cotton items. Avoid plastic ponchos which are easily torn when walking in the woods. A good rain jacket should repel water and preferably have a hood.
Other Camping Items
Except for long trips, where a boy may be carrying 1/4 to 1/3 his body weight in his pack, most boys will not need hiking boots. Trail shoes or light hikers are fine, as are running or other types of comfortable/sturdy sneakers. Flashlights and Head Lamps with LED’s are wonderful on trips and around camp at night.
A pad to place under their sleeping bag is essential. Some are made of foam material that is more comfortable than simply sleeping on the ground, and insulates campers to keep them warm. Others fill with air when used, and then deflate for packing. We recommend local independent outdoor stores or stores like REI for purchasing overnight gear items such as backpack, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad.
Please label all gear.
These vendors have given Falling Creek Families discounts on outdoor gear:
- Diamond Brand
Use Network Key DB34011 - Nantahala Outdoor Center
(888) 354-6340
If you choose to purchase gear from NOC, use the discount codeFALLINGCREEKfor 15% off your purchases.
Do I need to bring sheets?
Falling Creek provides sheets and blankets for all campers and staff. Therefore, personal sheets should not be brought to camp unless required for medical reasons. Falling Creek is not responsible for personal sheets and blankets. Boys should bring their own pillows, pillowcases, and towels. Please label them. If your son packs an extra blanket, remind him not to send it to the camp laundry with the camp sheets/blankets.
Can I bring flip flops?
To prevent injuries to staff and campers, athletic shoes should be worn at all times. Crocs, flip-flops, and sandals without a heel strap are not appropriate for camp. Due to our varied terrain and active culture, our footwear policy states that closed-toe shoes and socks are recommended.
What about special “themed outfits”?
Silly costumes are always fun to have at camp, though not mandatory. For example, boys in past summers have brought 4th of July themed gear, pirate outfits, fuzzy onesies, Hawaiian tropical shirts, and more.
Can I bring a hammock?
Hammocks have become increasingly popular at camp. As an optional item, we welcome boys to bring their hammocks and straps (also include tarp, stakes, and line for out-of-camp trips) to camp. Hammocks may be used for resting in camp during appropriate times and sleeping on out-of-camp trips, following the guidelines outlined below.
Hammock Guidelines
- Hammocks may not be hung on top of each other/stacked.
- Hammocks are to be hung at a height that allows entry without assistance/climbing.
- There are areas of camp where hammocks are not allowed. Ask a counselor if you are unsure about your hammock spot.
- Hang hammocks to sturdy, living trees only.
- Campers are responsible for their hammocks and accessories. Falling Creek Camp is not responsible for lost or damaged hammocks or accessories. Label hammocks and accessories.
- Please take hammocks down when not in use.
On out-of-camp adventure trips, hammocks may be used for sleeping, however, it remains essential for campers to pack both a sleeping bag and sleeping pad as outlined in the Parent Handbook. This will ensure that, regardless of sleeping arrangement, boys remain warm and dry while camping. If a hammock is to be used for sleeping during an overnight adventure trip the following guidelines are to be observed:
- A hammock tarp is required for protection from the elements and nighttime dew.
- A liner, sleeping bag, or blanket should be used with the hammock for warmth and additional protection from the elements.
- The hammock and tarp must be set-up and secured prior to nightfall.
Can I bring my pocket knife?
A small knife that fits into a pocket can be a useful tool in the backcountry. Our knife policy is that boys aged 13 or older are permitted to bring one such knife to camp. The blade must be entirely enclosed by its handle or sheath when not in use and is not to exceed 3 inches. Lockable blades and non-serrated edges are allowed. Double-edged, spring-loaded blades, switchblade knives, or other bladed objects such as Ninja stars are not allowed.
With the highest concern for safety, boys are obligated to tell their counselor or trip leader prior to using their knife. When not in use, the knife must be stored under control of its owner. Campers using a knife for purposes other than a beneficial tool will lose this responsibility and privilege.
Dismissal from camp will be immediate if the knife ever represents a weapon or is used irresponsibly.
It is assumed that boys, aged 13 or older, who bring a knife to camp have their parents’ approval and have proven to them that they are qualified to handle a knife properly.
Is there anything I can’t bring?
Campers should not bring any food, candy, lighters, matches, water guns, weapons (see Knife Policy above), or balloons, to camp. Aerosol products are discouraged unless required for sunscreen or insect repellent preferences.
All electronics, including iPods/music players, cell phones, smart watches, and electronic readers such as Kindle and Nook, may not be brought to camp. If these items are brought to camp, we will collect them and hold them in our office until Closing Day. Campers may bring cameras/GoPros that do not have internet connectivity with them to camp. Cameras/GoPros are only to be used outside of the cabin setting. Falling Creek Camp is not responsible for lost cameras or GoPros.
Clothing, sports gear, trading cards, and any other items of sentimental or high monetary value should left at home. Falling Creek Camp is not responsible for lost, missing, damaged, or destroyed personal property.
Campers do not need to bring cash to camp; any incidental purchases from the Camp Store will be deducted from your son’s store account balance after the end of the camp session. Incidental purchases may include batteries, a toothbrush, stamps, or an extra water bottle. The exception is for campers who may need spending money for the airport, if flying. Cash or credit cards for travel may be checked into the Program Office on Opening Day.
But I can keep candy in my trunk to snack on right?
Food of any kind is not allowed in the cabin, because it will attract insects, mice, and snakes. Please leave all your snacks and candy at home. Any food found in the cabins will be collected and held onto in our office until Closing Day.
If you are worried about being hungry between meals, we always have baskets of fresh fruit available in the Dining Hall. We serve three hearty meals each day, where you may eat as much as you are hungry for. We also have a small snack (milk and cookies) after Evening Program, before bed.
What if I lose something at camp?
Please label everything. It is important to have all of your son’s clothing and belongings clearly labeled with his full name, not initials - including shoes, sleeping bag, tennis racquet, toothbrush, backpack, trunk, etc. Sharpie markers work very well, as do name tapes, and name stamps. The vendors below have been very helpful with clothing labels:
- Label Lighthouse
Receive a 10% discount on clothing and item labels with promo codeFalling Creek - Family Labels
- Oliver’s Labels
We make a strong effort to return lost and found items while your son is at camp and have greater success if all items are labeled with his full name. With the exception of socks, underwear, water bottles, and towels, Falling Creek will return labeled items to campers once they have left camp. Mailing related costs may be charged to your account.
Unlabeled items will be logged and kept for a short time following camp, and then donated to local charity if not claimed. Falling Creek is not responsible for lost items.
Camper Laundry
We use a commercial laundry service and ask that you send clothing of a simple nature that will look neat with a wash-and-tumble-dry process. Laundry is sent in on a weekly basis and is returned the next day. There is no laundry service for the Junior session.
Please pack a laundry bag for your son that is of good quality and that may be securely closed. Laundry bags that cannot be securely closed may lose the contents. Again, label all clothing items.
Be sure to check out the Pre-Camp Checklist Video found on our Falling Creek Camp YouTube page.