First Time Campers

We have a few required items for sports, games and trips, but we encourage a “down-to-earth” culture without emphasis on clothing. Just follow our packing guidelines and remember, if you think it might be too fancy, then it probably is!

Download Packing List

At Laurel South, the health and safety of your child is our number one priority. We are able to accommodate campers with specific food allergies and invite you to contact us to speak more about any dietary or medical needs of your child.

More About Food & Safety

We have children arriving from all over the world and can work with you to arrange all details.

Visiting, Directions & Accommodations

We use Boston and Portland as the central meeting points for most campers, and arrange to meet campers flying into both cities. In addition, we have chaperoned group trips from several cities in the U.S. Campers arriving from overseas and from non-chaperoned cities either fly or drive directly to Boston or Portland and are met by Laurel South staff. We are aware of the importance of proper transportation for our campers and always meet flights as children arrive. We would be glad to discuss your specific situation in detail.

No problem! Making new friends is one of the best parts of camp! You will be in a close-knit group with other campers of your gender and age and Laurel South counselors are great at making sure all campers feel included and at home. Even if you come to camp with friends, you’ll make lots of new ones while you are here!

Homesickness can happen, but our counselors and directors are there to help campers through any temporary feelings of homesickness. We keep campers on an active schedule and engage them to develop independence and emotional growth. Our goal is to provide an enjoyable, exciting summer experience that motivates our campers to approach life with courage, confidence and a feeling of self worth.

Campers unplug at camp, which means no cell phones! Parents can schedule two calls with their campers by calling the Camper Hotline. Through your My CampMinder account, you can view daily photos taken throughout camp, as well as send one-way emails. We also encourage letter writing and you can expect to receive letters home from camp! Parents can always contact our directors if there is any type of emergency or special situation that arises.