Winter Camp Gear List

What to bring, at a glance:

Kid sized daypack/backpack
Full water bottle
Snack and Lunch* - Nutrient dense/low sugar food is best, as we are very active at camp
A full change of clothes (including socks, underwear, and shoes) in labeled, water resistant bag - wet clothes will be placed in the bag after changing to be sent home.
Anything your child needs to be comfortable in the woods
Please do not send toys or electronics as they can be distracting from camp.

Lunch & Snack:

Please pack both a snack and lunch each day. Please include a napkin and the appropriate utensils needed.

Snack should be a fruit, vegetable, grain or protein that can be eaten relatively quickly and without a lot of mess.

Lunch should ideally contain a vegetable, fruit, grain, and protein. Please do not send any desserts, cookies, chocolate, or other sugary items for lunch or snack. Students are very active throughout the day at Nature Connect and need complex, whole-foods for optimal energy.

Please do not pack any beverages other than water. It’s important for children to stay hydrated during our programs, and having other drinks can distract them from drinking enough water.

What to Wear:

Being warm and dry enough can make or break your child's experience for the day. When in doubt, over prepare. It is better to have an extra layer that isn't needed than to spend a day uncomfortably cold or wet.

If rain in the forecast, please pack any raingear that you have (jacket and pants)
Rainboots (so we can walk in the creek)
Base layer made of polyester or other synthetic material. Cotton is rendered useless for warmth the moment water or sweat comes in contact with it. We cannot stress this enough. If it's particularly cold, or your child is extra sensitive to being cold, you can layer up with extra base layers.
Mid layer of fleece or wool
Wind resistant outer layer - down or synthetic insulation is great (down is warmer). A rain jacket over an insulated coat works well for extra wind protection.
Athletic or hiking pants with synthetic leggings (not cotton) underneath for added warmth. Layer up the leggings if needed. Snow bibs are great option. Denim is not recommended - it is made from cotton and is very problematic if it becomes wet, especially in cold weather.
Warm hat or head band that covers ears
Gloves or mittens (waterproof is best)
Warm, tall socks - but not so thick that circulation to toes is hindered. This can have a reverse effect and make feet feel even colder. Sometimes, two layers of thin socks can be better than socks that are too thick for the shoes. Sweat wicking socks are great for keeping feet even warmer.

If a child comes blatantly ill-prepared for the weather, we will do our best with what we have to dress them appropriately. If this is not possible, they may be sent home. If you have questions about your child's gear, please ask.

It is very helpful if you have clothes that are designated just for Nature Connect. Please make sure that the clothes they wear are clothes that can get dirty and/or ripped. Nature Connect staff are not responsible for stained or damaged items.

Thrift & Consignment Shops:

Secondhand is a fabulous way to acquire affordable gear. Children most often come home from our programs quite dirty, and used clothes can add that extra sense of freedom for letting them “trash” their clothes.

Local children's consignment shops:

Sweet Seconds