Camp Kanata Parent Communications

At Camp Kanata, we understand how difficult it can be to send your child to Camp and not be able to communicate with them regularly. That’s why we are so intentional about sending Mini Updates, posting as many pictures as we can and keeping you up to speed on the happenings at Camp. In 2026, we’re thrilled to launch our very own Camp Kanata mobile app – powered by Bunk1 to help us all stay in touch throughout the week. 

Camp Kanata App – Powered by Bunk1 

With the introduction of our new mobile app, you’ll be the first to know what’s happening at Camp and access all the important details for your camper’s week(s). Much like Waldo, you’ll be able to check out photos from Camp each day, and you’ll also gain access to important links, announcements and updates from Camp. Learn more about accessing the app. 

Our app is powered by Bunk1. If you choose to upgrade to a paid package to use premium features (sending Bunk Notes, Facial Recognition or Unlimited High Resolution Digital Downloads), you will be charged by Bunk1. Basic photo gallery access is offered free of charge.

Camp to Parent Communications 

Updates from Camp: We utilize the Updates feed of the Camp Kanata app to share the behind-the-scenes of what’s happening at Camp throughout the summer and extended season. We also post weekly photos and videos on our social media, so be sure to follow our Instagram and Facebook pages. You’ll receive information on setting up your Bunk1 account via your child’s pre-arrival email. 

Mini Updates: Every Wednesday that your child is at Camp, you’ll receive a Mini Update on how their week is going. These updates will be sent to you via email. 

Letters Home: Campers are encouraged to write letters home if they choose. If you would like your camper to send you a letter home through the United States Postal Service, please be sure to bring pre-addressed and stamped envelopes to Camp with you when you drop off your camper. 

Photos: Much like our old platform, Waldo, our app provides parents with a snapshot of life at Camp. Photos will be uploaded after the Evening Program each night and will include images of activities, cabin time, swim time, SWC and more. You'll receive more information about the app and your account in your child's pre-arrival email. You have the option to purchase facial recognition features through Bunk1, this is not required and payment goes directly to Bunk1, not Camp Kanata. Due to our expansive grounds and extensive activities, we cannot guarantee photos of your camper.

Phone Calls: Additionally, we will contact you if we have any concerns about your child’s social, emotional or physical health. You can count on us to reach out in the following situations to partner with you to best support your child:

• Your child is staying overnight in the Health Center

• Your child will need a new prescription or repeated over-the-counter medication

• Your child needs to go off-site for medical care for any reason

• Your camper is experiencing a mental health challenge or prolonged homesickness

• Your camper has violated our Code of Conduct

You can reach the Health Center at any time by calling the main Camp Office number. After the Office has closed, there will be an option to connect you to the Health Center staff. 

Parent to Camp Communications

Letters: Many of you may remember our previous form of letter communication, Kanatagrams. We’re so excited to switch to our Camp Kanata mobile app for this service starting this summer. You can send Bunk Note messages to your camper each day through our app for an additional fee. Bunk Notes are printed and distributed to campers each day. Please note that it may take up to 48 hours for your letter to be delivered to your camper. You are also welcome (and encouraged) to send your camper letters through the United States Postal Service (see addresses below).

Pro tip: Parents are welcome to drop off pre-written letters at the Camp Store on Opening Day to be delivered during the first week of Camp. Please include the camper's name, cabin number, and day of the week the letter should be delivered.

To mail a letter to your child, please address it to:

Camp Kanata 

13524 Camp Kanata Road 
Wake Forest, NC 27587

No-Package Policy: 

Camp Kanata has a no-package policy. Please adhere strictly to the packing list when preparing your camper for their session.

If a package is delivered to Camp:

• Camp staff will open the package.

• If it contains a pre-approved essential item your camper needs immediately (e.g., glasses, retainer, etc.), it will be delivered to them directly. Please note that it may take up to 48 hours for essential packages to be opened and delivered.

• If it contains non-essential items or items not on the packing list, it will be returned to your camper’s home address. The credit card on file will be charged for postage, plus a $5 handling fee.

If you need to mail an essential item to your camper, please call the Camp Office to obtain mailing instructions and to let us know to be on the lookout for it. 

Camp Kanata is not responsible for items lost in the mail or lost upon delivery if addressed incorrectly.

Pre-Arrival and Pre-Departure Emails

The email address on file (the address that receives the monthly Parent Newsletter) will receive an email in the weeks leading up to your camper's Opening Day with important last-minute details relating to your camper's arrival. This email will include your individual Camp Kanata app login information. An email with Closing Day details will be sent a few days before Closing Day with any additional departure details.