Packing List for Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp

Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp (Twin Lake, Michigan) runs summer sessions for grades 5–12. Here's a practical packing list based on camp guidelines:

Clothing (Label Everything!)

• Camp T-shirts (provided/required for rehearsals)
• Everyday: Jeans/khakis, shorts, T-shirts (10–14 days' worth)
• Warm layers: Sweatshirt/fleece, light jacket (nights hit 10°C/50°F)
• Rain gear: Waterproof jacket + pants or poncho
• Swim: 2 swimsuits, beach towel, goggles
• Footwear: Broken-in sneakers (2 pairs), sandals/flip-flops (shower), dress shoes (concerts)
• Formal: Black pants/skirt, white shirt/blouse, black socks/hose, black dress shoes (final concerts)
• Sleep: Pajamas, robe

Bedding (Twin XL or Twin)

• Fitted + flat sheet, pillow + case, sleeping bag OR comforter/blanket, mattress pad (dorms have vinyl mattresses)

Toiletries

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash (travel bottles)
• Deodorant (non-aerosol)
• Hairbrush/comb, hair ties
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+), lip balm SPF
• Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin; no aerosols in cabins)
• Personal meds (original bottles + doctor's note; give to health center)

Arts-Specific Gear

• Instrument (case labeled; insurance recommended)
• Music (method books, solos, ensemble parts)
• Art supplies (sketchbook, pencils, portfolio – check program list)
• Dance: Leotards, tights, ballet/jazz shoes, knee pads
• Theater: Rehearsal clothes, character shoes

Miscellaneous

• Water bottle (insulated), daypack
• Flashlight/headlamp + batteries
• Stationery, stamps, pens (letters home!)
• Small spending money ($20–40; camp store, vending)
• Camera (disposable or cheap digital; phones collected)
• Fan (battery/clip-on; dorms not AC)
• Laundry bag (mesh)

Prohibited

Phones (collected day 1), electronics, valuables, weapons, fireworks, alcohol/tobacco/drugs, aerosols, candles, pets.

Check the current year's parent handbook (bluelake.org) for updates. Laundry is weekly; pack 10–12 days of clothes.