Once you've found a camp that's well run and offers all the activities that your child is interested in, it's time to start thinking about packing. Before you make that drive to the camp or drop your son or daughter off at the camp bus stop, you'll want to make sure he or she has the right clothing, equipment and accessories for a safe and fun summer.

Saul Rowen has been the owner and Executive Director of Cali-Camp, a summer day camp in Topanga, California, for the past 44 years. Rowen has served terms as President of both the National and Western Associations of Independent Camps, and has gained respect and honor in the camping business through his leadership on industry committees, as well as his participation in lectures, seminar presentations, and television and radio talk shows. Here he offers advice for making sure your child has all the necessary equipment for summer camp:

• Check guidebook.
  Many camps send out camper guidebooks that list all of the equipment needed to get along well in camp. When in doubt about what to pack, check with this guide, the camp's website, or someone who works for the camp.
  
• Pack the basics.
  According to Rowen, there are certain necessities that kids will need at almost any camp. These include hiking boots, warm sweatshirts, insect repellent, a flashlight, a swimsuit, and sunglasses. Remember that comfort is very important, but so is safety.
  
• Ask about specialty equipment.
  Make sure to find out what kind of specialized sports equipment your child might need to bring. The camp might not provide things like tennis racquets, fishing poles, or cameras, even if it's a specialty camp.
  
• Check on bedding.
  Many camps provide bedding and a laundry service, but some may require your child to bring a sleeping bag or sheets to put on their cots or beds.

For more information about summer camp, check out the following organizations or websites:

Cali-Camp
www.calicamp.com

Camp Page
camppage.com

American Camping Association
www.aca-camps.org

International Camping Fellowship
www.campingfellowship.org

Summercamps.com
www.summercamps.com

Camp Channel
www.campchannel.com