Camping Jobs at Summer Camps Across the USA
Camping jobs at summer camps are a perfect fit for outdoor educators and wilderness enthusiasts who love sharing the joy of living outside with the next generation. Whether you’re teaching tent setup at a traditional sleepaway camp, leading first overnights for first-time campers, or running multi-day campouts at a residential adventure program, camping staff create some of the most formative experiences in any camper’s summer.
As a camping instructor at an overnight camp, you’ll teach campers how to pitch tents, cook outdoor meals, build safe campfires, plan trips, and practice Leave No Trace principles. You’ll lead overnights on or near camp property and often support longer backcountry trips alongside the adventure department. Many co-ed and traditional sleepaway camps build camping skills into nightly cabin overnights, group challenges, and the broader outdoor curriculum across the summer.
What does a camping instructor at summer camp do?You’ll teach core outdoor skills — tent pitching, fire building, outdoor cooking, gear care — and lead overnight camping experiences for campers. Most sleepaway camps run regular cabin overnights and trip-based programs throughout the summer camp season.
What certifications do camping instructors need at sleepaway camps?Wilderness First Aid (WFA) is the typical baseline; Wilderness First Responder (WFR) is preferred for trip-leading roles. Leave No Trace Trainer or Master Educator credentials are highly valued at residential camps.
Are camping jobs at summer camps full-summer roles?Most are full-season roles spanning 7–9 weeks including staff training. Specialty wilderness camps may also hire trip-only staff who run back-to-back expeditions across the summer at their residential property.
What does the pay look like for camping jobs at summer camps?Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience and certifications. Overnight camps include room, board, and laundry alongside salary, and many also provide gear stipends — which adds real value beyond the base summer camp pay.
Do I need my own camping gear for the job?Camps typically provide group gear like tents, stoves, and cookware. You’re usually expected to bring personal items — sleeping bag, pack, boots, headlamp. Many residential camps offer pro deals or gear stipends to support staff at the sleepaway camp.
Browse Summer Camp Camping Jobs for 2027
| Job Type | Setting |
|---|
| Full-Time Seasonal | Overnight Camp |
Start Date: June 1, 2027
End Date: August 31, 2027
Camp Watitoh is looking for talented drivers to join their summer team!
Drivers (21+) help keep camp running smoothly while still being fully involved in the camper experience. In addition to living in a bunk with campers and taking part in day-to-day camp life, drivers handle transportation needs throughout the summer. This may include picking up supplies, running errands, driving campers or staff to medical appointments, and transporting teams or groups to other camps for games and special events.
When they are not on the road, drivers take on the same responsibilities as other cabin staff, helping with bunk routines, evening activities, supervision, and the overall camp experience. This role is a strong fit for someone who is responsible, flexible, confident behind the wheel, and excited to be an active member of the camp community.
| Job Type | Setting |
|---|
| Full-Time Seasonal | Overnight Camp |
Start Date: June 1, 2027
End Date: August 31, 2027
Camp Watitoh, located in the Berkshire Mountains in Massachusetts, is seeking Overnight Camping Staff.
Overnight Camping Staff lead campers on overnight trips and outdoor adventures, helping them feel comfortable and confident spending a night away from the main camp. They teach practical camping skills like setting up tents, building and maintaining campfires, preparing meals outdoors, and following Leave No Trace principles. Throughout each trip, they are responsible for keeping campers safe, engaged, and organized while making the experience fun.
This role is a great fit for someone who loves being outdoors, is comfortable camping in different conditions, and enjoys teaching kids new skills. Overnight Camping Staff should be dependable, patient, safety-minded, and ready to take the lead when plans change. Previous camping, backpacking, outdoor education, or trip-leading experience is especially valuable.
