Parents

Camp really can be one of the highlights of your child's year and their journey with Jesus. Here are just a few things you should know, and a few things that might prepare you and your kids for camp.

CAMPERS NEEDS: If your child has any individual needs, please let us know before he or she leaves for camp. If necessary, tell us about diet, family situations, etc. All information is kept private; only the staff involved with be told. Information can be shared on the registration form, or by emailing, the camp director, Pastor Sam Luce.

HOMESICKNESS: Prior to the camp, parents can help establish the basis of a successful adjustment to camp using this guide.

  • Please do not make any "private deals" such as "just call me if you are unhappy and you can come home." Instead, let you child know that counselors and camp directors will be there to help out. We have found that most campers make the best of their summer experience when parents fully support their efforts to adjust to being independent and spending 4 days away from home.
  • Discuss and help your child list a set of personal goals for their camp experience.
  • Send a disposable camera to record camp experiences that can be shared after the summer.

Sometimes a child will experience homesickness. When this happens, we begin by recognizing that it is natural to miss home. We work with each child individually, listening and talking about his or her feelings. If necessary, we notify parents and work with you to implement the best plan. In some instances, parents may be asked to pick up a child. It is very rare that a camper leaves due to homesickness. After all, children are active and involved as soon as they arrive at camp.

ANTICIPATING CAMP: This spring, campers may wonder, "What will activities be like?" "Am I going to have fun?" "Who will my friends be?" Campers benefit from encouragement and a reminder about how brave and wonderful they are to take the step they are taking.
Encourage your child to form friendships, try new activities and confide in staff as needed. So, let you child know that his or her efforts this summer will be enthusiastically supported by you and by our staff and volunteers.

FINALLY: We recognize that the camp experience is a special one for parents too, and we recognize you may want to be a part of the experience. Before or during the summer, feel free to call or email us whatever you need.

Clothing & Equipment
A suggested packing list can be found on the Camper's Page.
Label everything! Even socks and underwear. Use a permanent marker.
Please limit your luggage to one soft duffel or suitcase, a sleeping bag and pillow (packed together in a duffel or trash bag)

Camp Departure Day & Return Schedule
Departure Day: Campers are to arrive and check in at their campus (Mt Zion or Cornerstone) at their designated time on August 17
Return Day: Standard Camper pick up is on Wednesday August 20. Look for more details soon.

Contacting your Camper
We have found that it is often difficult for some kids to make the adjustment to camp life if they are in contact with home. If you do need to make contact with your child, choose from one of the following options:

  • Emergencies: Only contact the Camp Beaver office at 315.376.2640.
    Camp Care Packages: Can be mailed to 8884 Buck Point Road, Lowville, NY 13367

Medications & Records
A nurse is on camp property daily to administer medications and provide any medical services. All medications (prescription/over the counter) need to be packaged and labeled in the following manner:

  • Place medication (in it's original container/packaging) in a zip lock bag. Enclose instruction on how and when to administer. If this is prescription medication, make sure direction from the doctor are enclosed or printed on the container.
  • On the tip of an index card, indication whether this medication is "as needed" or "daily." We will record when and by whom the medication was administered on this index card, and return it to you with any unused medication at the end of camp. Also on this index card please print the child's full name and phone number.
  • Be sure to indicate proper storage of the medication (i.e. refrigeration).
  • Only send enough medication for the length of camp.
  • For multiple medications: Enclose each medication in a separate zip lock bag.

Food
Please do not send food of any kind (including candy and gum) with your camper. We provide three nutritious meals a day plus snacks, so extra food is not necessary.