What Parents Need to Know About Staying Connected While Their Child is at Camp

Sending your child to overnight camp is a big step—for them and for you. Whether it's their first summer away or they're a seasoned camper, it's natural to wonder how you'll stay connected while they're off having adventures in the woods, on the lake, or around the campfire.

At Camp Lincoln and Camp Lake Hubert, we believe in the power of unplugging—but that doesn't mean parents should feel left in the dark. Here's what you need to know about staying informed, reassured, and connected while your child is at camp.

1. Camper Communication Policies

For the sake of safety, presence, and independence, campers do not have access to phones, tablets, or social media while they're at camp. This is an intentional part of the experience. Being "unplugged" allows kids to build face-to-face friendships, learn problem-solving skills, and fully engage with the camp community.

But that doesn't mean you're cut off! We've built communication systems that help parents feel informed and involved—even from afar.

2. Daily Photo & Video Galleries

Our media team works hard every day to capture the spirit of camp life and give you a glimpse of what your camper is experiencing. We upload hundreds of photos daily to Bunk1.

We know that finding a photo of your child can feel like a game of "Where's Waldo"—so we're constantly improving our photo tagging and coverage system to ensure every camper is represented regularly. You can even upload a picture of your camper into Bunk1 

Pro Tip: Set up your photo alerts and favorite your child's photos to easily track them throughout the session.

3. Download the Bunk1 App

Using the code 25HUBERT camp families, grandparents, neighbors, friends, etc. can access daily photo uploads, and send unlimited Bunk Notes to their camper while at camp.

• Bunk Notes: Bunk Notes are the fastest and easiest way to deliver camper mail. Families can send their camper letters, customized with photos, borders, puzzles, and more from the Family Portal on your Bunk1 account. These letters are sorted and delivered once daily to campers after lunch, if receieved by 9:00AM central standard time. Bunk Notes are unlimited!
• Bunk Replies: Parents may purchase credits, to have stationary printed and attached to Bunk Notes that they send. Parents can print out fun stationery templates for their campers to write on prior to camp or attach them to their Bunk Notes while at camp in the App. The Bunk Replies have a space barcode that is specific to your camper, so that you receive their messages when the office scans them.

3. Letters from Home (and Camp Mail!)

There's something magical about handwritten letters—especially at camp. We encourage parents to write letters or use our one-way email system to send a quick hello. Campers receive their mail at lunch or dinner, and it can be the highlight of their day.

Campers also write home a couple of times during their session. While you might not hear from them as often as you'd like, a postcard scribbled in messy handwriting often says more than a perfectly crafted text ever could.

Mail Tip: Send a letter a few days before camp starts so it arrives early in the session.

4. Camper Updates & Wellness Check-Ins

If your child visits the health center overnight or experiences something out of the ordinary, you'll get a call from our nurse team. For general wellness, our counselors and directors are always monitoring camper well-being, and we're happy to provide updates upon request.

Some age groups may also receive mid-session updates from counselors or unit heads to give you insight into how your camper is adjusting and thriving.

5. Trust the Growth Process- First Time Summer Camp Families

Perhaps the hardest (and most rewarding) part of camp—for both parents and children—is letting go. Trust that your camper is in a supportive environment, surrounded by role models, friends, and opportunities to grow.

If you ever feel uneasy, our team is just a phone call or email away. We're here to support not just campers, but their families too.