Camp Gear List | Nature Connect in Fairhope, AL

Summer Camp Gear List

What to Wear Creek Camps:

Please come dressed for the creek and arrive to camp in water shoes.
Girls: Bathing suit (under shorts and a t-shirt) or shirt/shorts that can get wet
Boys: Bathing suit or shorts that can get wet and a t-shirt
Closed-toe Water Shoes with straps (shoes that will stay on your foot when walking in water). No flip-flops. Here is the water shoe recommendation. Socks can be worn with water shoes to protect from blisters and to help prevent sand/pebbles from entering shoes.
We recommend that children do not wear long-sleeved sun shirts. We will be in the shade most of the time, and these shirts get too hot when not swimming.

What to Wear Bay/Lake Camps:

Please come dressed for the water and arrive at camp in water shoes.
Girls: Bathing suit (under shorts and a t-shirt) or shirt/shorts that can get wet
Boys: Bathing suit or shorts that can get wet and a t-shirt
Long-sleeved sun shirts can be worn for these camps. We will be in the sun for most of the day.
A sun hat
Closed-toe Water Shoes with straps (shoes that will stay on your foot when walking in water). No flip-flops. Here is the water shoe recommendation. Socks can be worn with water shoes to protect from blisters and to help prevent sand/pebbles from entering shoes. Must be able to run and play in these shoes
Old tennis shoes are great

What to Wear Cold Weather Camps:

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

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/water resistant outer layer - tops and bottoms - down or synthetic insulation is great (down is warmer). A rain jacket and rain pants/overalls 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, especially for younger children. 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
Waterproof gloves or mittens
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 wool socks are great for keeping feet even warmer.
Warm, waterproof boots - we recommend neoprene, insulated rain boots or waders.

What to Bring:

Kid-sized daypack/backpack
A full change of clothes in labeled, water-resistant bags. After changing, wet clothes are placed in the bag to be sent home.
Dry shoes for changing into after water time (children need to be able to run/play in them. No flip flops)
Full reusable water bottle
Snack and Lunch: Nutrient-dense/low-sugar food is best for snacks and lunch, as we are very active at camp. A sealable lunch box is recommended to protect from ants.
Towel
Anything your child needs to be comfortable in the outdoors
Please do not bring toys or electronics. Books or other nature-related items are welcome.

Additional for Fishing Camps:

Medium-light spinning rod (can purchase at Sportsman's Marine)
NO push-button reels
NO bait casters or heavy surf rods
All reels must be spooled with 6-10lb mono or fluorocarbon. (Not braided)
Nature Connect has a few extra fishing rods if your student is unable to bring one. Please let us know in advance because supplies are limited.
Pliers with cutting tool on lanyard (can purchase at Sportsman's Marine)
Example here
We require the children to wear life jackets when swimming in the bay. We will supply life jackets, but if your child has one they like wearing, feel free to bring it (with their name written on it).

Lunch & Snack:

Please pack both a snack and lunch each day.

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 sugary drinks can distract them from drinking enough water.

Notes:

Please apply sunscreen/bug spray before arriving at camp each day. We will also reapply periodically throughout the day.

Please make sure that your child's clothes are clothes that can get wet/dirty. Nature Connect staff are not responsible for stained or damaged items. Labeling all personal items is a great idea.

If you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to contact us. Thank you!