The Parent’s Checklist for First-Time Overnight Campers

1. Talk About What to Expect

Help your child feel confident by walking through what camp will be like—new friends, shared cabins, daily schedules, and all the exciting activities ahead.
The best overnight camps in California, like Catalina Sea Camp, AstroCamp, and Camp CHOP, create welcoming communities where campers feel supported from day one.

2. Pack Together

Involve your child in packing. It helps them feel prepared and responsible.

• Label everything

• Include a mix of comfortable clothes for warm days and cool nights

• Don’t forget sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a flashlight

Guided Discoveries camps provide packing lists to make this step easy and stress-free.

3. Prepare Emotionally

Even the most excited first-time camper can feel homesick.
Talk about those feelings before camp and reassure them it’s normal. Many campers discover that once they dive into activities—snorkeling, stargazing, or cooking—they forget to miss home!

4. Review Safety and Communication Policies

Trust matters. Parents should always review how a camp handles safety, communication, and health care.
At Guided Discoveries, each program is ACA-accredited, has trained staff, on-site medical personnel, and clearly defined communication policies.

5. Encourage Independence

Let your camper handle small things on their own before camp—packing a lunch, doing laundry, or managing their schedule. These little steps make the transition smoother and more empowering once they arrive at camp.

6. Send Encouragement

Pack a note or postcard for your camper to open mid-week. A simple message like “We’re proud of you—have fun!” reminds them they’re loved while giving them space to grow independently.

7. Plan for Reentry

The “post-camp glow” is real! When your camper comes home, let them share stories, show new skills, and stay connected to their camp friends. These experiences often spark long-term confidence and curiosity.

Why Parents Choose Guided Discoveries Camps

With more than 45 years of experience, Guided Discoveries runs some of the best overnight camps in California. From Catalina Sea Camp to AstroCamp and Camp CHOP, each program is built around adventure, safety, and community—helping campers grow into confident, curious, and capable young people.

Feeling ready to send your first-time camper off with confidence?
Learn more about the best overnight camps in California.

Explore Catalina Sea Camp, AstroCamp, and Camp CHOP—where first-time campers discover independence, friendship, and fun that lasts a lifetime.