What to Pack
Follow these lists closely — and check our additional tips — to prepare for NSO Basecamp.
What to Wear for Day 1
Shortly after arriving, you’ll begin Challenge Course elements and go for a hike in Coopers Rock State Forest.
Here's what to wear to check-in so you’ll be ready to start your day outdoors:
- Sneakers or hiking boots (must be closed toed)
- Socks
- T-shirt
- Long pants/athletic tights or athletic shorts
Keep in mind you will wear a harness for some of the Challenge Course elements. If you wear shorts, make sure they’re not too short or wear compression shorts under your athletic shorts.
Small Backpack
Pack these items in a small backpack to use during your Day 1 activities, which can include hiking and epic views at Coopers Rock, depending on weather and itinerary.
- Water bottle (should be at least 1 liter)
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Warm fleece-type jacket
- One pair of athletic sandals (must have a backstrap!), water shoes or old sneakers
- Prescription medications. If you carry an inhaler or EpiPen, or need to take any other prescriptions during the day, be sure to pack those in your small backpack for easy access.
- Sunscreen
- Bug repellant
- Lip balm
- Rain pants (optional, but highly recommended)
- Brimmed hat for sun protection (optional)
- Sunglasses (optional)
- Camera (optional)
Suitcase or Duffle Bag
Bring supplies for your overnight stay and clothing for your Day 2 on-campus NSO program in a suitcase or duffle bag.
- Bedding and pillow. You will be sleeping in a bunk bed in a yurt. Bring a sleeping bag or a twin sheet set.
- Pajamas or lounge clothes. Pack whatever will be comfortable for you to hang out in and then sleep in.
- Toiletries and shower supplies
- Towel
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Clothes for your Day 2 on-campus NSO program. Wear whatever will be comfortable. WVU buildings tend to be heavily air conditioned during the summer months.
- Driver’s license or equivalent. You’ll need this so you can pick up your student ID at NSO.
Packing Tips
Things to consider when choosing what to bring.
No Drugs, Alcohol or Tobacco
Do not bring drugs, alcohol or tobacco (including e-cigs, vapes, JUULs). Bringing these items is grounds for dismissal from the program without a refund and possible University sanctions.
Cell Phone Use and Restrictions
You can bring cell phones or any other electronics, but use will be restricted. Staff will notify you when cell phones are and are not allowed.
We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to be fully “present” and not be distracted. Most participants end up appreciating the disconnect from technology while at our facility!
We will have an emergency cell phone on site and hand radios for site-based communications.
Check the Weather
Check the weather forecast for “Bruceton Mills, WV.” Temperatures in Bruceton Mills tend to be, on average, 10 degrees cooler than on campus in Morgantown. It will be colder than you expect, and you’ll end up dressing in layers.
Additionally, it often rains during the summer months, so bringing appropriate rain gear is important.
Avoid Cotton
Avoid cotton clothing as much as possible. Cotton does not keep you warm once it gets wet, which is a big deal when you’re in the outdoors. Please bring synthetic (polyester, fleece, nylon, etc.) as much as possible.
Preview the Challenge Course
You’ll be participating on low and high Challenge Course elements. We encourage you to visit the Challenge Course website to learn what the elements are all about.
Understanding the elements will help you understand how to dress to be most comfortable.
Buy Used or Borrow
When preparing for NSO Basecamp, remember that not everything needs to be purchased new, nor do you need the latest and greatest brand names.
Use what you have, borrow from a friend or family member or visit a local thrift store or discount store!