Parent Information Everything you need to know to prepare for your camper or family experience!
You’re at the right place to learn how to get ready for your camper or family’s summer camp adventure. We’re here to help all go smoothly, whether you have a first-time camper or consider yourself a summer camp pro.
Below we have packing lists, drop-off and pickup info, and more! If you have questions we’ve not answered, then definitely call or email us so we can relieve some stress. We want to ensure you and your camper head out the door relaxed and excited about having outdoor adventures and making new friends at Camp Monroe!
You can reach us at (910) 276-1654 or Office@MonroeCamp.org.
Summer DAY Camp Parent Info
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- Lunch is included in the cost of registration.
- View a sample menu. Menus will be followed as closely as possible based upon product availability from vendors.
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Label the backpack/bag AND the items inside with your camper’s name.
- swimsuit (see swimsuit requirements under FAQs: “What Should My Camper Wear”)
- beach towel
- spray sunscreen & sunscreen stick: We recommend parents send spray sunscreen and a sunscreen stick for kids who need help with reapplication. Our staffers are not allowed to help with reapplication of lotion sunscreen.
- flip flops or water shoes for the lake.
- plastic bag to put clothes in after changing into swimsuit and to put wet items in after lake time
- insect repellent
**Lost and found is only held for 2 weeks after your session of camp.
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What to Wear
- casual clothing and athletic shoes for rec activities
- close-toed shoes (no open toe shoes, backless sandals, or flip flops) or sandals with back/heel straps
- swimsuit requirements: 1) Girls are required to wear modest one-piece swimsuits or a tankini that covers the stomach. 2) Camper swimsuits cannot have metal or plastic zippers, grommets, or metal of any kind since these damage the material on the lake water toys. Campers with these will not be allowed to go down the water toys; no exceptions.
What NOT to Wear
- sleeveless shirts, spaghetti strap tops, or tank tops
- tight-fitting clothes or short shorts (Shorts should come to the bottom of fingertips.)
- clothing with offensive language or promoting persons, bands, or products which are offensive
What NOT to Bring to Camp
- chewing gum or bubble gum since it damages camp property
- any electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, etc.)
- tobacco or vape products, alcohol, illegal drugs, firearms, fireworks, matches, lighters, aerosol cans, or weapons including pocket knives
- anything valuable — Camp Monroe does not take responsibility for damaged, lost, or stolen items.
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Check-in at Camp
- Monday check-in at camp begins at 8:00am.
- Check In will take place at Hafer Hall. Our staff will greet you there.
- A quick check by the nurse for lice and temperature will be performed.
- Any balances can be paid on Monday for the week ahead.
- If Thursday Night Sleep Over is available, you’ll be informed at Check In. Thursday Night Sleep Over can be added onto your account. You can access your account here (http://monroecamp.campbrainaregistration.com).
- If our staff have any updates or changes for you, they will inform you at drop off.
- Parents will sign in campers with Camp Staff.
Tuesday – Friday camp check-in begins at 8:00am.
- Our staff will greet you in front of Hafer Hall. If you have any questions or concerns, you can speak to the Day Camp Supervisor.
- Parents will sign in campers with Camp Staff.
Pick-up at Camp
CHANGES can be made in your online account UP UNTIL 1 WEEK BEFORE the camp start date. If you need to adjust your Pickup Authorization, please contact us. For questions regarding the camper pick-up email Office@MonroeCamp.org or call the office at (910)276-1654, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For camper safety, all campers must go through the camper check-out process.
- Pick-up begins around 4:30 p.m. and ends around 5:00p.m.
- Parents will sign campers out with Camp Staff.
Monday – Thursday Pickup: 4:30-5:00p.m.
Friday Pickup: 2:00p.m.
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Bringing Snacks & Camp Store Snacks
There is no need for campers to bring snacks to camp. They will visit the snack shack each afternoon.
Lunch at Camp Monroe
Our cooks prepare a nutritious, healthy lunch which is kid and teen friendly.
Camper allergy information should be provided in your account.
Camp Monroe may not be able to accommodate ALL allergies or dietary restrictions; and we cannot prevent, nor guarantee, a cross-contamination-free environment. That being said we do our best to ensure that campers receive enough nutrition at lunch to help support the vigorous activities they take part in.
Call the office at (910)276-1654 if you have concerns.
Campers should also accept responsibility for adhering to their specific diets.
OVERNIGHT Camper Parent Info
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To reduce lost items and create a more efficient checkout process, we ask families to pack their campers’ belongings using the outline below.
Campers are allowed the following THREE bags:
ONE. Backpack/sling bag for daily use: sunscreen, bug spray, Bible, journal, etc.
TWO. Duffle bag or suitcase (no trunks please): clothing, towels, toiletry bag/caddy, laundry bag, flip flops, etc.
THREE. Stuff sack: drawstring bag to hold sleeping bag/bedding, pillows, etc.
Please be mindful of care packages and gifts sent to your camper. At the end of camp, all campers will be encouraged to pack their belongings back into their three bags to ensure nothing is left behind and expedite the checkout process.
Luggage tags are recommended for bags.
Label all your camper’s individual items. Lost and found is only held for 2 weeks after your session of camp.
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Track Choices
1. Adventure Track – for the camper who has tons of energy and loves rollercoasters, this track guarantees that the camper will get to spend every day in the giant swing, zip line, race up our climbing tower, and complete our high ropes course challenge.
2. H2O Track – for the camper who can’t get enough of water-based activities, this track guarantees that at least half of each day at camp they will be playing on water toys, competing in water games, or learning water-based skills. We recommend multiple towels and bathing suits for this track!
3. Sampler Track – for the camper who can never make up their mind, this track offers an opportunity to do everything Camp Monroe has to offer: adventure elements, craft elements, water sports, and all the games in between.
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Packing for Your Overnight Camper
- Close-toed shoes (no open toe shoes, sandals, or flip flops) are required for archery tag, giant swing, climbing tower, banana Olympics, and high ropes course elements. Keens are acceptable.
- Casual clothing and athletic shoes for rec activities (Clothing should be modest.)
- Bible: If your camper does not own a Bible, inform our staff in advance and Camp Monroe can provide one at no cost.
- Swimsuit (See FAQ: What are the Swimsuit Requirements?)
- Spray sunscreen & sunscreen stick, beach towel, and waterproof sandals (Note, our staffers are not allowed to help with application of lotion sunscreen.)
- Laundry bag and/or 2-3 garbage bags for dirty laundry, bedding, and wet clothing.
- Rain gear
- Pillow & sleeping bag OR bedding for twin mattress
- Toiletries (soap, shampoo, deodorant, personal items, etc.) and toiletry carrier for shower house
- Bath towels and washcloth or loofah
- Insect repellent
For Theme Nights:
- Dark Outfit for The Ultimate (a night time game of capture the flag)
- A red outfit for Alpha and a blue outfit for Omega (they will learn which team they are on after their arrival at camp)
- Wacky Outfit for Wacky Wednesday (could be mismatched clothing, bright neon colors, mismatched socks, Halloween costumes, etc)
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Campers love receiving packages and mail from their family! Our staff does mail call every day at lunch (12 noon)
You can get these to your camper in two ways:
- Give to Camp Monroe staff at check-in on Sunday, or
- Mail to your camper during their week of camp.
To ensure your camper receives these while they are at camp, mail CARE PACKAGES no later than TUESDAY and mail LETTERS no later than WEDNESDAY the week prior to their arrival. Mail takes around 7 days to make it to Camp.
Mail to:
Camp Monroe
Camper Name
24501 Camp Road
Laurel Hill, NC 28351 -
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Check-in begins at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday.
- Once you turn onto Camp Monroe property, you will be guided by yard signage back to Boyd Hall for Check-In
- Staff will greet you and help direct you to park your car. Staff will ask your camper’s name and inform you of what cabin they will be in.
- Staff will help unload luggage and place it at cabin signage.
- Enter Boyd Hall on the left of the building, following the REGISTRATION signs.
- First you’ll meet with our Office Manager to handle any outstanding paperwork, waivers, or payments, if any.
- Second, your camper will check in with the Camp Nurse to drop off medicines (if any) and to receive a lice and temperature check. If you have questions for the nurse concerning medications or procedures, this is the time to ask.
- Third you’ll stop by the Camp Store to view merchandise if desired.
- Fourth, you’ll meet with the Camp Director to guide you to your camper’s cabin group and the Chaplain if you have any questions about the theme for the week.
To exit camp: After you’ve met your camper’s counselor and said goodbyes, you may exit the property on the same road you entered on.
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Complete 1 Week from Camp Start
Inviting Friends to Camp
Bringing friends with you makes camp even more fun! Invite as many friends as you want.
Cabin Mate Requests are made during online registration. Two friends must request each other to guarantee placement in the same cabin. If a group of 3+ campers request to be put together, Camp Monroe will try to honor requests, but it is not guaranteed.
Friends in the same cabin should be same gender and one year/one grade apart in age.
Cabin Mate Requests MUST be accepted no later than one week prior to the camp session start date.
Additions or Updates to Your Camper Account
Be sure to do this one week before camp starts. Log into your account to add or update the following info:
- Pay balance due, if any.
- Health Form updated and submitted
- T-shirt Size – Verify your camper’s size is current.
- Snack Shack Funds – Add money to your camper’s store balance for purchases at the Camp Store.
Questions: Email Office@MonroeCamp.org or call the office at (910) 276-1654, Tuesday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Girls are required to wear modest one-piece swimsuits or a tankini that covers the stomach.
Camper swimsuits cannot have metal or plastic zippers, grommets, or metal of any kind since these damage the material on the water toys. Campers with these will not be allowed on the water toys; no exceptions.
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- sleeveless shirts
- spaghetti strap tops, or tank tops
- tight-fitting clothes or short shorts (Shorts should come to the bottom of fingertips.)
clothing with offensive language or promoting persons, bands, or products which are offensive
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- chewing gum or bubble gum since it damages camp property
- any electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, etc.) These are a distraction to your camper and to other campers and may become lost or stolen. If brought to camp, they will be collected for safekeeping and returned at the end of camp.
- tobacco or vape products, alcohol, illegal drugs, firearms, fireworks, matches, lighters, aerosol cans, or weapons including pocket knives
- shaving cream, squirt guns or other “prank” items
- anything valuable — Camp Monroe does not take responsibility for damaged, lost, or stolen items.
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For camper safety, all campers must go through the camper check-out process.
PICKING UP AT CAMP
Friday afternoon pickup is between 2:00 p.m.-2:45 p.m.
- After Checking Out with Camp Staff: View the Lost and Found items displayed on the fencing in the field next to Hafer Hall. If you spot an item that belongs to your family, please stop and collect the item after collecting your camper and their luggage when exiting the property.
- Whoever is picking up your camper(s) will need to be on the Pickup Authorization Form. This includes parents.
- Camper luggage will be placed at Boyd Hall by cabin group. Families are welcome to retrieve their luggage after being reunited with their campers.
- To exit camp: You will exit camp on the same road you entered on.
If you are also picking up a Day Camper on Friday, your day camper will join your overnight camper for 2:00 pickup.
A camper cannot be released to anyone not listed on the Pickup Authorization Form even if Camp Staff recognize them and have seen them each day at pick up.
If the person picking up your camper(s) is not listed on the Pickup Authorization Form, the family will be contacted to confirm identity. You can add people to your Pickup Authorization Form by emailing the Camp Office at Office@MonoreCamp.org.
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Bringing Snacks & Camp Store Snacks
Campers do not bring snacks to camp.
The Snack Shack will be open each afternoon for campers to buy snacks. Snacks vary from chips, cookies, candies, sodas, capri suns, gatorades, and more. Snack Shack Funds can be added to your account during the registration process.
Camp Monroe Meals
Our cooks prepare nutritious, well balanced meals which are kid and teen friendly.
Camper allergy information should be provided in your account.
Camp Monroe may not be able to accommodate ALL allergies or dietary restrictions; and we cannot prevent, nor guarantee, a cross-contamination-free environment.
Call the office at (910) 276-1654 if you have concerns.
Campers should also accept responsibility for adhering to their specific diets.
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Is Camp Monroe affiliated with a specific denomination or church?
Camp Monroe is a Christian Camp and Retreat Center in covenant relationship with the Presbytery of Coastal Carolina and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Christian ministry that teaches fundamentals of God’s Word from The Bible. Camp Monroe is not owned, governed, or funded by a church or church organization. Camp Monroe has a volunteer board of trustees and is funded through user fees, individual donations, monthly supporters and grants.
What is the spiritual emphasis of the camp?
Camp Monroe’s camp program focuses on creating a positive Christ-centered environment in order to help build strong character in the lives of young people. It is a place to have fun, make friends and learn more about God. We openly promote who God is and share Biblical truths from God’s Word throughout the entire camp experience including recreational activities. Every staff member is a follower of Jesus Christ and models Christ-like character. Our staff respects each individual camper’s right to make his or her own decision about accepting Christ as his or her Savior.
How are Camp Staff chosen?
Applicants must exhibit outstanding maturity, leadership. and character in order to be a strong role model to campers of all ages.
Applicants…
- are personally interviewed by the camp director
- submit 3 personal references
- are thoroughly screened using national background checks
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What if I need to pick my camper up early or they are absent?
Early Pick Up: If you need to pick up your camper early, make arrangements at least 24 hours prior by calling the office at (910) 276-1654. Failure to do so will likely result in a longer wait as your camper will be involved in activities.
Absences: Camper fees are not refundable and non-transferable for absences. Contact the camp office if your camper is absent due to a medical reason.
Absences may include any hours missed due to:
- late arrival or early pick up for any reason
- missing camp due to inclement weather
- being sent home because of behavioral issues
- hesitant or unsure about attending camp
Are visitors allowed at camp?
With camper safety in mind, and needing to maintain focus on our program, we must limit the people who are on the property and in the facilities. Therefore, visitors are not allowed during camp.
You can call to check on your camper; but rest assured, if you have not heard from us, they are doing great!
Can my child attend a camp session based on maturity/ability instead of the one for their age range?
We believe campers have a more positive experience if he/she is grouped with other campers who are the same age/school grade.
Does Camp Monroe offer camps for children with special needs?
We make every attempt to serve campers who have special needs or limitations. However, one on one care is not currently available for special needs campers. Call the camp office at (910) 276-1654 to discuss the particular care your camper will require before submitting your registration.
How are behavioral issues handled?
Camp Monroe leadership aims to provide an excellent experience for all campers. Therefore, we cannot allow a camper’s behavior to detract from the experience of others. Because we believe in grace, we have a three-step behavior policy to encourage the reversal of negative behavior. Camp leadership has the right to override these steps at any time if determined necessary.
Campers who cause physical, verbal, or emotional harm to others or who are disruptive to another’s experience may be sent home. Harmful behavior includes repetitive non-participation in the program, bullying, stealing, telling inappropriate stories, using foul language, or any other conduct which detracts from the Christian and wholesome environment of Camp Monroe.
In most situations, the camp leadership team will address behavior using the following process. However, if positive results are not attained, then parents/guardians will be notified to pick up the camper from camp, and the camper may not return during that camp session. The camper may be allowed to register for and attend another session depending on availability. No refund or credit is given if a camper is sent home.
- At the first report of behavior, the camper will be given a verbal warning by lead program coordinators and/or camp directors. Following this warning, camp directors will contact and inform parents/guardians about the situation.
- At the second report of behavior, the camper will have a direct conversation with their guardians and the camp directors. The camper may be asked to take a break from camp for the rest of the day.
- At the third report, guardians will be contacted, and the camper will go home for the rest of the day and possibly be dismissed from the remainder of the camp session.
Behavior at Camp Monroe is handled on a case-by-case basis. Camp directors may decide to take immediate action, possibly resulting in immediate dismissal following the first or second report of behavior.
It is never our goal to send a camper home, and it is always our intention for our campers to have a successful camp experience. We do not take our responsibilities lightly and aim to extend grace with our campers as Christ so freely extends to us.
How can I communicate an emergency to my camper?
Emergency: If you have an emergency and need to speak with or pick up your camper, and it is during normal office hours, M-F 8am-5pm, please call the main office at (910) 276-1654. Our Guest Relations team will work in a timely manner to get communication to your camper.
If you have an emergency after normal office hours, you may email our Office Manager at office@monroecamp.org. We do not make it a habit of handing out the Leadership Team’s phone numbers in a widespread capacity. Use the wording of “EMERGENCY” in your subject line and the Office Manager will notify the Camp Director immediately. Please limit these emails for emergencies that cannot wait until regular business hours.
Non-Emergency: If you have non-emergency information which needs to be communicated to your camper, call the office M-F 8am-5pm at (910)276-1654 or email Office@MonroeCamp.org.
Your camper will be fully engaged during their camp experience, so it is not possible for our staff to direct personal, non-emergency calls to campers. Assume your child is having a great time and trust our staff to contact you if necessary. If an issue arises with your child, the camp director will call you immediately.
A camp nurse will contact you about health or injury issues.
How is inclement weather handled?
Should inclement or threatening weather occur, precautions are taken by Camp Monroe staff to ensure the safety of all campers. If the weather is not threatening, camp-related activities will continue by moving indoors with some modification to activities if necessary.
We respect parents’ individual decisions whether or not to bring their children to camp if threatening weather is forecasted. However, no refunds are given.
How do I change my camper’s session?
Call the camp office at (910)276-1654 or email Office@MonroeCamp.org and we will be happy to change your camper’s session.
There is no fee to change a camper session, but the request MUST be made more than two weeks (14 days) prior to the registered camp start date.
Less than 7 days notice is considered a Cancellation: Any request made for a session change LESS than one week (7 days) prior to the registered camp start date will be considered a cancellation and all payments will be forfeited. At this time, a new reservation would have to be made to change a camper session.
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Camper Health: What can I do? What does Camp Monroe do?
First, parents or guardians can help prevent the spread of sickness by keeping children at home when they have been diagnosed or show signs of illness — particularly illness which can be spread to other campers.
Camp Monroe staff take every precaution to protect campers from sickness or injury. Camp staff are trained in safety, basic first aid and accident prevention.
Certified, licensed nurses are on site during each camp session to handle injuries, administer over-the-counter meds as needed, plus administer prescribed meds which campers bring to camp.
How does Camp Monroe ensure campers get plenty of fluids??
Water coolers are located throughout the camp property. Water breaks are scheduled to help ensure campers do not experience dehydration.
My child is not a strong swimmer. How is lake time supervised?
Certified lifeguards are on duty during all scheduled lake activities. Additionally, camp staff accompany their campers while they are in the lake and pool area.
All campers, regardless of swimming ability, are required to take a swim test at the beginning of the week to determine whether a lifejacket is needed for swimming in the pool. All campers wear a life jacket at all times while in or near the lake. Life jackets are provided by Camp Monroe and are properly fitted to the campers before entering the water.
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All cancellations must be made IN WRITING. Send your cancellation notice by email to Office@MonroeCamp.org or by US Mail to Camp Monroe, 24501 Camp Road, Laurel Hill, NC 28351
DEPOSITS
Non-refundable deposits are required to complete a registration: $100 for Day Camps, Overnight Camps, and Counselors in Training. If registering for multiple sessions, only one deposit is required.
Deposits will be forfeited for cancellations unless we receive a written medical reason. For cancellations involving a medical reason, the deposit will be held as a credit in the family account.
All account credits, whether for medical reasons or other, must be applied to a registration by the end of the calendar year; otherwise credits are forfeited.
PAYMENTS
Payment in full is required for all registrations prior to the camp start date.
CANCELLATIONS/TRANSFERS
Any cancellation/transfer made by a family, outside of a government mandated shut down, falls under our normal cancellation policy as follows…
*Transfers may be made up to 7 days from the camp start date without penalty or forfeited funds.
30+ Days Notice: If a cancellation is made MORE than 30 days prior to the camp start date, any payment made above the initial deposit will be refunded (if requested).
If a cancellation is made LESS than 30 days prior to the camp start date, no refund will be given, and the following applies.
- 15-29 Days Notice: Any cancellation received more than two weeks out (15-29 days) before your camp start date will receive a full credit for the amount paid above your deposit and registration fee.
- Less than 14 Days Notice: Any cancellation OR transfer within 14 days from your camp start date will result in funds being forfeited.