What to Bring to Camp

What to Bring

Temperatures are typically in the 90's during the day and drop as low as the mid 60's overnight.

• Clothing - Bring sufficient clothing for seven days. Temperatures are typically in the 90's during the day and drop as low as the mid 60's overnight. Shorts and lightweight t-shirts are ideal.  Hats and sun protection are a must.  You may also want to bring a sweater or light jacket to wear in the evenings.  We strongly recommend that you bring clothing that is not valuable and is easy to replace. Bring some extra outfits in case you get sweaty or messy and want to change more than once a day (many people especially like to bring extra socks). Some people like to bring fun or silly outfits for skit night. Our full dress code can be found under our FAQs.

• Footwear - Good footwear is required. Shoes must be secured with a heel strap. Close toed shoes, such as sneakers, are strongly encouraged. Secure sandals with a heel strap are permitted but discouraged due to the risk for stubbed toes. Bringing multiple pairs of shoes is recommended so that if shoes are wet, shoes are dirty, or a camper or counselor has a blister, they have another option available. Sandals without a heel strap such as flip flops, or other types of less secure shoes such as crocs or slides, are only permitted in the shower house. 

• Pajamas - Bring pajamas or clean clothing that can be worn to bed.

• Bathing Suit - The waterfront at camp is always bustling with activity and is in direct sunlight. Swim trunks, swim shorts, rash guards, swim shirts, one piece swimsuits, and tankinis are encouraged to ensure freedom of movement and sun protection. Swimsuits that are secured with knots rather than clips or elastic are discouraged due to the increased risk of a wardrobe malfunction. When choosing swimwear, think: Would this give me a disadvantage in a chicken fight? If so, it’s probably not the best swimwear for camp!

• Laundry Bag - Bring a large bag into which you can put dirty clothes.  A sturdy garbage bag is sufficient.

• Bedding & Towels - Each cabin has beds with plastic-covered single mattresses.  You will need to a pillow as well as a sleeping bag or a sheet and blanket. Bring at least two towels, one for showers and one for swimming.

• Toiletries - Bring an ample supply of toiletries, including soap, shampoo, and deodorant.  Avoid scented or perfumed toiletries, as they can attract bees and other insects.

• Sunscreen and Bug Repellent - Sunscreen and bug spray are essential items.  Campers spend a significant amount of time outdoors. We recommend reapplying both throughout the day.

• Water Bottle - Bring a plastic water bottle to ensure hydration throughout the day.  Be sure to write your name on it.

• Flashlight - Bring a sturdy flashlight with fresh batteries.

• Fan - There is no air conditioning, and it gets hot!

• Extension Cords and Surge Protectors -  Most cabins have only a single electrical outlet, so extension cords and surge protectors are essential.

• Bible, Prayer Book, Rosary, and other religious items - Helping children grow in their faith is the central mission of Camp.  Consider bringing a Bible, prayer book, or other spiritual guides to use in your cabin's prayer corner.

• Post Cards & Stamps - The US Postal Service picks up and delivers mail on a daily basis to Camp York.  If you would like to send a note to your parents, family, or friends, bring post cards with stamps already attached.

• Family Photos - These are great to remind us of home and to let others learn more about our families!

• Snacks are discouraged, as we provide more than enough meals and snacks throughout the week. If you choose to bring extra snacks, we require that they are kept in a metal container with a secure lid.

What NOT to Bring

Some items are just not appropriate for Camp.  They include:

• Jewelry - Bring at your own risk.

• Alcohol, Tobacco Products (including E-Cigarettes), and Drugs - These items are NEVER acceptable. 

• Cell Phones and other electronic devices - Cell phone service at the campsite is very poor.  Electronic equipment can easily get wet or dirty, especially when curious youngsters are around. Cell phones and other electronic devices are not permitted for campers. If a camper is found with a phone or other electronic device it will be confiscated and returned to the parent at check-out.