the 95 lt1 camaro, are the sending units for the water temp and oil pressure the ones for gauges or idiot lights?

They are for the ECM. The ECM needs to know engine temp to go from open loop to closed loop. I installed an oil pressure sensor behind the EGR for my gauges. And there is a spot on the drivers side just below the exhaust ports where you can put a water temp sensor.

so then how does the camaro dash gauges know what to display, there would have to be a connection somewhere?

I looked in a haynes manual (helm is on the way) and the stock sensors put out to gauges, so I need to get the ss gauge cluster from a 78-87 elcamino. then if I can't find a dash wiring harness for the elcamino just tap my stock wires to the camaro wires at the sensors ( assuming the elky wires reach the location of the sensor). the oil pressure sensor was busted off of this engine so I have to replace it anyway, and the water pump has the temp sensor on it ( just found out today) so I should be able to use it.

also if you don't have a helm and want one some model/years are on sale right now, just ordered mine today for $36.95 shipped and it is 2-3 books that include the factory sevice manual, and electrical wiring. normally $130.