We know that Rustic camping can pose a challenge for those that aren’t use to it. However, there are ways to not only be able to camp well, but comfortably. We have listed below suggested camping equipment/food list. Remember that our venue has showers and toilets; a small amenity that makes the rustic camping experience more bearable.

This list will help you prepare and know what to bring to our camping events throughout the year, and will be updated as per season and event. Of course, Winter events you will require you to bring more bedding and warmer clothes, and in the heat of Summer events you would need to bring cooler clothes and more bottled water.

We have also added two lists of decorations we highly suggest you bring so you can compete in the Campsite Decorating contest.  These contests are designed to contribute to the overall atmosphere of our camping events and we would love for everyone to participate, as they can.

The list below is meant to give you some options when bringing equipment to the campsite.  (They’re more guidelines than actual rules.) You do not have to bring all of these things – bring for yourself or your family what works best for you. If it is your first time rustic camping, do not fear!  Participants and staff will be happy to help you.  We are all community.

All Haven and Emergent Studies Institute camping events follow Leave No Trace guidelines and ethics.  If you packed it in be prepared to pack it out, especially your trash.  We never wish to be a burden of any kind to the landowners with which we work with to bring you these outdoor spiritual opportunities.  Please make a concentrated effort to leave your campsite better than you found it.

What to bring? (You do not HAVE to bring all of these items.  This is an Example list.)

Major Equipment

• Tent/Pavilion/Tepee
• Rain Fly if using a tent. Weather changes very quickly.
• Tent Stakes
• Hammer
• Sleeping Bags
• Additional Bedding if it is Cold.
• Air Mattress or Cot. (Twin Air Mattress’s are cheap and easily found)
• Camp Chairs and Camp Tables
• Flashlights/ Lanterns
• Glow Sticks
• Batteries
• Umbrella
• Rain Poncho’s
• Swimsuit
• Easy-Up/Pavilion
• Trash Bags – Everyone is expected to haul out their own trash! (Trash Bags will be available, but please do bring your own.)

Personal Needs

• Medications you normally take. – Please let Staff know about serious medical conditions and medical needs.
• Toiletries
• Shower Shoes/Sandals – There ARE Showers on the property.
• Towels and Washcloths. – Never go anywhere without a towel! 😉
• First Aid Kit
• Sunscreen
• Additional Toilet Paper – Please use Bio-degradable or toilet paper recommended for Septic Systems just in case.
• All Weather Clothing. – We suggest bringing layers for the radical weather changes.
• Hiking Shoes
• Insect Repellent

Cooking – (COOKING ONLY ALLOWED in the front of the property. NO FIRE by your tents this time….)

• Bring SNACKS, just in case. Please fill out our Event Intake forms so we know food preferences and allergies.
• Ice Chests/Coolers
• Camp-stove/Hibachi (Keep Upfront)
• Covered Movable Fire-pits (Kept Upfront, but welcome)
• Cooking Utensils. – Metal Spatula, Spoon and Large Grill Forks.
• Mess kits – Plates, Forks, Spoons, etc.
• Can-Opener
• The Vessel With The Pestle

***We will have access to sinks and may have a wash station outside for larger events***

Food/Snack Suggestions

• Eggs -Boil Before or Bring for Breakfast Protein
• Bread
• Sandwich Meat
• Bacon
• Sliced Cheese
• Veggies
• Canned Soup or Chili
• Fruit
• Bottled Water
• Gatorade or Powerade
• Snack Food- Chips, Jerky, Trail Mix
• Pre-Making foods and bringing them to cook is a good idea.

Retreat Specific Items 

• Journal – We strongly Suggest you bring a journal.
• *Item for Community Altar – This items can be left for future use on the Altar or taken back with you at the end of the event.
• Art Supplies – People enjoy bringing pencil, pen, or watercolor to create while at retreats.
• Drums, Percussion, Flute, Pipe or Bag Pipe
• Bell, Book and Candle
• Staff, Cape or Cloak

*Please bring this item, part of ceremony.

Campsite Decorations – Please Decorate with the Season! 

• Solar Lights
• Hanging Lanterns – Citronella (Must be fully enclosed to prevent sparks etc.)
• Banners
• Tapestries
• Fabric
• Garland
• Ribbon
• Seasonal Suggestions– Holly, Skulls, Flowers, Ribbon, Cob-Webs (Dispose after if needed)
• Battery Operated X-Mas Lights
• Have Fun!!

Feast Table Decorations -You can decorate your groups table if you wish for important meals.

• Table Cloth
• Metal or Wooden Plates, Bowls, and Cups
• The Chalice From The Palace
• The Flagon With A Dragon
• Metal or Wooden Silverware
• Candles or Candelabras
• Banners/Flags – Supporting your group, a cause or to simply add to the overall look of the event.
• Center Piece or Garland
• Be Creative!!