The Visitor Center and Klingsberg Aviary will be closed to visitors from December 22, 2024, through January 22, 2025.

Equipment List for ODS Counselors

The following list should help you decide what to bring to Outdoor School. Layering clothing will make it easy to adjust to temperature fluctuations from morning to afternoon. Rain gear is essential for Outdoor School because we continue with programs even in the rain. We tell the students not to bring curling irons, makeup, electronic devices, candy, or knives, so you shouldn’t bring these either. The cabins have electricity, so bring an alarm clock or your cell phone charger if you use your phone as a clock. Download a printable equipment list (PDF).

Bedding and Toiletries

  • Sleeping bag or sheets and blanket (Optional: bottom twin sheet to cover mattress)
  • 1–2 bath towels and a washcloth
  • Laundry bag (plastic trash bag is fine)
  • Pillow and pillow case
  • Personal toiletries (shampoo, toothpaste, etc.)

Clothing

  • Raincoat or poncho with hood or waterproof hat — ESSENTIAL
  • Warm jacket(s)
  • Fleece or wool sweaters
  • 1 pair of shoes for hiking (these do not have to be boots, but the terrain can be muddy)
  • 2 pairs of sneakers (one old — for water study)
  • Shower shoes
  • Warm hat/mittens/gloves
  • Pajamas
  • 4–5 T‐shirts
  • 2–3 pairs of pants/shorts
  • 4–5 sets underwear
  • 6 pairs of socks (2 heavy pairs in winter) — bring more socks than you think you will need!

Equipment

  • Watch and/or alarm clock — this is important!
  • Counselor handbook
  • Daypack
  • Water bottle!
  • Pencil/pen
  • Notebook
  • Flashlight with extra batteries

Optional

  • Boots or other appropriate shoes to wear with 1850s costume
  • Camera
  • Musical instrument
  • Travel coffee mug
  • Stories to read to your cabin group at bedtime (NOT scary!)