What to Pack for Summer Camp in the Twin Cities

Summer camp in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and across Minnesota can mean a little bit of everything: sports fields, lakes, nature centers, and of course, plenty of mosquitoes.

Packing for camp in the Twin Cities means preparing for warm afternoons, cool mornings, and lots of outdoor time. The good news? Once you know what to include, the daily routine gets much easier.

Here’s exactly what to pack for a successful camp day in Minnesota! 

Start with the Basics

Every camper should have:

• Backpack
• Reusable water bottle
• Nut-free lunch
• Two snacks
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Change of clothes
• Small towel if needed

Twin Cities camps often spend long stretches outdoors, so practical gear matters.

Layers Matter in Minnesota

Even in summer, mornings can feel cool, especially near lakes or shaded camps. Pack:

• T-shirt
• Athletic shorts
• Sweatshirt or zip-up layer
• Socks
• Closed-toe sneakers

By afternoon, kids usually peel layers off. Packing one extra layer can save the day and be the difference between joy and misery! 

Don’t Forget Bug Protection

This may be the most region-specific item of all (iykyk). Many Twin Cities camps involve:

• Woods
• Parks
• Lakes
• Trails

Always include:

• Bug spray
• Long socks for nature camps
• Lightweight long sleeves for evening programs

Minnesota mosquitoes are no joke. They’ll carry you off! 

Water Day Must-Haves

In the Twin Cities, water often becomes part of camp. We’re not the Land of 10,000 Lakes for nothing. Pack:

• Swimsuit
• Quick-dry towel
• Wet bag to protect non-waterproof items
• Sandals if allowed
• Extra underwear

Lake-based and outdoor camps often need these more than once a week.

Shoes That Work

Campers may move between:

• Grass
• Gravel
• Trails
• Gym floors

The best options include:

• Closed-toe sneakers
• Water shoes for specialty camps
• Extra socks in backpack

Dry feet can make a huge difference by pickup time, and reduce any blisters or ouchies. 

For Younger Kids

A few extras help:

• Full spare outfit
• Easy-open snack containers
• Comfort item if needed
• Labeled sunscreen stick

Younger campers often need quick changes after messy activities or accidents. 

For Older Kids

Older kids may need:

• Deodorant
• Extra snack
• Journal or book for downtime
• Spending money if the camp allows

Twin Cities full-day camps can be surprisingly long and active.

Twin Cities-Specific Smart Additions

Helpful extras:

• Plastic bag for muddy clothes
• Small towel for wet benches
• Lip balm with SPF
• Allergy medication, if approved by camp

Outdoor-heavy camps can be unpredictable.

What Not to Pack

• Electronics
• Favorite clothing
• Expensive sunglasses
• Too many toys

Camp is messy by design.

Final Checklist Item for Parents

Packing for camp in the Twin Cities is really about one thing: preparing for the outdoors.

Between sunshine, water, bugs, and changing temperatures, the right bag can make camp smoother for your child and much easier for you.

Because when kids are comfortable, they can focus on what camp is supposed to be about: fun! 

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Check out our Northeast guides when packing for camps in Boston or NYC, too!