Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is hiring for summer ! Much More Than Just Another Summer Job…Camp Mah-Kee-Nac offers an unforgettable summer job experience in the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts, just a few hours from both Boston and New York City. Staff live and work in a stunning lakeside setting, surrounded by natural beauty and a close-knit camp…
What Are Canoe/Kayak Jobs at Summer Camp?
Canoe and Kayak Jobs at Summer Camps Across the USA
Canoe and kayak jobs at summer camps are a paddler’s dream summer gig. Whether you’re teaching forward strokes on a glassy lake at a traditional sleepaway camp or running surf-skin sessions on a coastal residential camp, paddling instructors keep one of camp’s most beloved areas vibrant all season long. With the rise of stand-up paddleboarding, sea kayaking, and whitewater programs, demand for skilled paddling instructors continues to grow across the country.
As a canoe/kayak instructor at an overnight camp, you’ll teach paddling fundamentals, rescues, navigation, and trip planning, while leading lake-based lessons and possibly multi-day expeditions. You’ll manage gear, ensure safety, and run progression-based programs that take campers from beginners to confident trip-ready paddlers. Many co-ed sleepaway camps integrate canoe and kayak programs into a unified paddlesports department, giving instructors plenty of variety throughout the summer.
What does a canoe and kayak instructor at summer camp do?
You’ll teach paddling, rescues, trip planning, and water safety across canoes, kayaks, and sometimes paddleboards. Daily lessons, progression programs, and multi-day trips are typical at most sleepaway camps throughout the summer camp season.
What certifications help when applying for these roles?
ACA Canoe and Kayak Instructor certifications are highly valued, as are Wilderness First Aid and lifeguard certs. Whitewater certifications matter if the camp runs river programs. Most overnight camps support certification renewals during staff training.
What kinds of boats do summer camps offer?
Tandem and solo canoes, sit-on-top kayaks, touring kayaks, whitewater kayaks, and paddleboards are all common at residential camps. Larger sleepaway camps may also offer war canoes, voyageur canoes, and surf skis.
What does the pay look like for canoe/kayak jobs at camp?
Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience and certifications. Sleepaway camps include room, board, and laundry alongside salary, and many also provide gear stipends or pro deals to support staff at the camp.
Can current college paddlers work in these roles?
Absolutely. Many co-ed sleepaway camps actively recruit collegiate paddlers, racers, and competitive whitewater athletes. Combine your athletic background with teaching or coaching experience and you’ll be a top candidate at residential camps.
