HOW TO PACK LIKE A PRO
THE ZIPLOC METHOD IS THE BEST METHOD.
For efficiency (and peace of mind!) we recommend packing one outfit (including underwear and socks) into one labeled gallon-sized Ziploc bag for each day of camp. The gallon size is an easy and convenient way to separate clothing into daily outfits and/or categories. It will set your camper up for success, save A LOT of time in an already busy camp schedule, AND our counselors will seriously love you for it! ❤️
Also include the following:
1. Ziploc for swimming stuff: bathing costume (pack 2), beach towel, sun lotion, sunglasses, goggles flip flops etc
2. Bed-time Ziploc for Pajamas (pack 2 separate sets), ear plugs & eye mask for sensitive sleepers, nightlight or flashlight and a comfort item like a plush toy or fidget toys.
3. Ziploc for Rainy-Day outfits (pack 2 sets) and a few separate sweatshirts for cooler evenings
4. If your camper is attending camp during 4th July or 25th of July, please consider packing a fun costume or themed outfit!
IMPORTANT: WE DO NOT DO LAUNDRY - EXCEPT FOR CAMPERS WITH INCONTINENCE OR DOING A TWO-WEEK STAY.
BEDDING: Campers MUST bring bedding, including a fitted sheet (whether they are using a sleeping bag or blanket)
WHAT TYPE OF LUGGAGE IS BEST?
One hard shell suitcase, trunk or, duffel bag (which should include bedding)
One backpack for personal and comfort items
All items (including bedding) should fit in to no more than TWO secure and well-labeled pieces of luggage.
Do not send clothing or bedding in trash bags as these rip easily when being transported.
BEDDING
Be sure to pack and label your camper’s bedding as we do not provide it. Bedding should include:
Fitted sheet, 2. pillow & pillow cover, 3. flat sheet or light blanket (or weather appropriate sleeping bag).
INCONTINENCE
If your camper has night-time incontinence (bed-wetting), we will wash bedding and clothing. Please pack extra bedding.
Note: We are unable to wash bedding on check-out days; will double bag any soiled items before packing them away.
Please pack enough Depends/Attends/Briefs and/or bed pads to last the duration of their stay.
A WORD ON LABELING
IF YOU WANT IT BACK, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE LABEL YOUR CAMPER’S STUFF!
To ensure safe return of ALL your campers belongings, please ensure ALL their stuff is labeled. There are lots of great iron-on options available online, or you can just use a sharpie. Remember to also label the insides of shoes, water bottles, towels (washing label), laundry bags, toiletries and plush toys.
PACKING LISTS
CLICK ON THE CORRESPONDING PACKING List BELOW:
LODGING
Our adult campers stay in two locations:
BUNKING FAQs
HOW IS HOUSING ASSIGNED AND CAN FRIENDS/SIBLINGS BUNK TOGETHER?
Lodging is assigned in advance of check-in day and can occasionally be subject to last minute changes depending on final group size and/or mobility of individuals. Friends wanting to bunk in the same room can request to do so in advance by emailing office@grotonwood.org a minimum of two week before arrival. Our adult campers are assigned housing based on session type and/or mobility.
WHERE DO CAMP STAFF SLEEP?
Camp staff are assigned bedrooms next door or close by to their campers.They are evenly spread out across the building in groups of 2-3. Camp staff sleep in staff designated rooms, staff may sleep next-door to campers but will never sleep in the same room.
HOW ARE LIVING AREAS SUPERVISED?
Camp Counselors are responsible for supervising all activities of daily living, including rise & shine, bedtime routines (ADLs and personal care), behavior management, group moral, socio-emotional support, conflict, camper participation/engagement at activities, and adherence to the camp schedule.
A Unit Leader (Senior Counselor) is located within each housing location.
Unit Leaders communicate emergencies and logistical information to other unit leaders through a camp-wide radio system (walkie-talkies). Radios are with Unit Leaders at all time, including quiet hours. Camp Counselors report to Unit Leaders and Unit Leaders report to the Camp Directors.