Summer camps have been a staple of childhood for many kids, providing a fun and enriching environment for them to make new friends, learn new skills, and enjoy the great outdoors. But in recent years, the role of nurses at summer camps has become increasingly important as the COVID-19 pandemic has forced camps to adapt and implement new health and safety measures.
With the advent of COVID-19, summer camps have had to make significant changes to their operations in order to keep campers and staff safe. This includes implementing social distancing measures, requiring masks, increasing hand hygiene, and conducting daily health screenings. All of these measures require a high level of organization and attention to detail, which is where nurses come in.
Nurses at summer camps are responsible for monitoring the health and wellbeing of campers and staff, as well as managing and administering any necessary medical treatments. They also play a key role in implementing and enforcing health and safety protocols, such as conducting daily health screenings and monitoring for symptoms of COVID-19.
In addition to their traditional responsibilities, nurses at summer camps are now also responsible for helping campers and staff understand and adhere to new health and safety guidelines, such as wearing masks and practicing social distancing. This requires strong communication and education skills, as well as a compassionate and understanding approach.
Overall, the role of nurses at summer camps has become even more important in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. From monitoring the health and wellbeing of campers and staff to enforcing health and safety protocols, nurses are essential to the smooth and safe operation of summer camps. As such, camps are in desperate need of skilled and experienced nurses, nursing students, and certified/licensed practitioners to ensure the health and safety of all campers and staff.
To get hired at summer camp, research the right camps, apply early, highlight your leadership and childcare experience, prepare for your interview, and show that you are ready to put campers first.
Working at summer camp can be one of the most rewarding jobs you will ever have. You get to spend your summer outdoors, build lifelong friendships, gain real-world leadership experience, and make a meaningful impact on children’s lives.
But before you pack your bags for camp, you have to get hired.
The good news? You do not need to have a perfect resume to land a great summer camp job. Many camps hire first-time staff every year. What matters most is showing that you are responsible, energetic, teachable, and genuinely excited to help campers have a safe and memorable summer.
If you are wondering how to get hired at summer camp, this guide will walk you through the process. From researching camps to preparing for your interview, these tips will help you stand out for the right reasons.
Why Summer Camps Are Looking for Great Staff
Summer camps depend on great staff. Counselors, activity instructors, lifeguards, nurses, media team members, kitchen staff, and support staff all help create the camp experience families trust and campers remember.
Camp is fun, but it is also a real job. Staff members help supervise campers, lead activities, build confidence, support homesick kids, model kindness, and keep the day moving. Because of that, camp directors look for people who can bring both energy and maturity to the role.
A strong camp staff member does not need to know everything on day one. However, they do need to be willing to learn, work hard, communicate well, and put campers first.
That is what your application and interview should show.
What Camps Look for in Summer Camp Staff
Before you apply, it helps to understand what camps are really looking for. While every camp is different, most directors want staff who are dependable, positive, and ready to be part of a close community.
Camps often look for candidates who show:
Responsibility: Campers need staff they can trust.
Maturity: Camp staff often live on-site and handle long, active days.
Flexibility: Camp schedules can change quickly because of weather, camper needs, or special events.
Energy: Staff help create the fun, welcoming spirit that makes camp feel special.
Patience: Working with children requires empathy and calm problem-solving.
Teamwork: Camp staff live and work closely together.
Leadership: Counselors and instructors guide campers through new experiences.
Good communication: Staff need to communicate clearly with campers, coworkers, and supervisors.
You do not have to be perfect in every area. Still, your application should show that you understand what the job involves and that you are ready to contribute.
Research Camps Before You Apply
One of the best ways to improve your chances of getting hired is to apply to camps that are a good fit for you. A generic application may get overlooked, but a thoughtful one shows that you understand the camp and its community.
Start by looking at the camp’s website, job descriptions, activities, location, and mission. Pay attention to the type of campers they serve and the roles they are hiring for.
Some camps are traditional sleepaway camps with sports, arts, waterfront activities, and outdoor adventure. Others may focus on special interests, specific age groups, teen leadership, or campers with additional support needs.
As you research, ask yourself:
Do I want to work at a sleepaway camp or day camp?
What age group would I enjoy working with?
What activities could I help lead?
Am I comfortable living at camp for the summer?
Do the camp’s values match what I am looking for?
What dates am I available?
Does the role include housing and meals?
Are there certifications I need, such as lifeguarding or first aid?
The better you understand the camp, the easier it will be to write a strong application and answer interview questions with confidence.
Apply Early and Follow the Instructions Carefully
If you want to know how to get hired at summer camp, one of the simplest answers is this: apply early.
Many camps start hiring staff months before summer begins. Some roles, especially specialty positions like waterfront, ropes course, nursing, media, or activity leadership, may fill quickly. Applying early gives you more options and more time to find the right match.
When you fill out your summer camp application, slow down and follow the instructions carefully. This may sound basic, but it matters. Camp directors notice when applicants are thorough, professional, and easy to communicate with.
Make sure you:
Complete every required field.
Use accurate availability dates.
Proofread your answers.
Attach a resume if requested.
Be honest about your experience and certifications.
Respond quickly to emails or interview requests.
Use a professional tone in written communication.
Your application is often the first impression a camp has of you. Treat it like the beginning of the job, not just a form to rush through.
Highlight Experience That Shows You Can Work With Kids
You do not always need previous camp experience to get hired. However, you should highlight anything that shows you can be responsible, patient, and positive around children or teens.
Relevant experience might include:
Babysitting
Coaching
Tutoring
Volunteering
Lifeguarding
Teaching assistant work
Youth group leadership
Sports team leadership
Student government
Customer service jobs
Outdoor education
Music, art, dance, theater, or sports instruction
Even if your experience does not seem directly related to camp, it may still be valuable. For example, a restaurant job can show that you work well under pressure. A team captain role can show leadership. A volunteer position can show that you care about serving others.
When describing your experience, be specific. Instead of saying, “I am good with kids,” explain how you have worked with children before. Did you coach younger athletes? Help a homesick child while babysitting? Tutor a student through a difficult subject? Lead a group project?
Specific examples help camp directors picture you in the role.
Show That You Understand the Job Is About Campers
A summer camp job can be exciting. You may get to travel, live outdoors, meet friends from around the world, and build your resume. Those are all great reasons to apply.
However, the strongest applicants understand that camp is ultimately about the campers.
When writing your application or answering interview questions, focus on how you want to contribute to the camp community. Talk about helping campers feel included, encouraging them to try new things, and creating a safe, positive environment.
That does not mean you cannot mention your own goals. It is perfectly fine to say that you want to grow as a leader or gain experience working with children. Just make sure your answer also shows that you care about the camper experience.
A strong answer might sound like this:
“I want to work at camp because I love being part of a positive community where kids can grow, make friends, and try new things. I also think it would help me build leadership and communication skills, but what excites me most is the chance to make a real impact on campers.”
That kind of response shows maturity, warmth, and purpose.
Let Your Personality Come Through
Camps are not only looking for qualifications. They are also looking for people who bring joy, creativity, and enthusiasm to the community.
Your personality matters.
If you are applying to be a camp counselor, activity specialist, or support staff member, camp directors want to know what it would be like to have you around campers and coworkers all summer. Are you upbeat? Kind? Flexible? Creative? Willing to jump into songs, games, theme days, and silly moments?
Do not be afraid to let your personality come through in your application and interview. Share why camp excites you. Talk about the activities you love. Mention the unique skills or interests you could bring to the community.
Maybe you play guitar, coach soccer, love hiking, enjoy photography, teach swim lessons, or have a talent for organizing group games. These details can help you stand out.
At the same time, keep your tone professional. Camp is fun, but hiring is still a professional process. You want to show that you can be energetic and responsible.
Be Professional in Every Interaction
Professionalism can make a big difference in the summer camp hiring process. Camp directors are looking for staff members they can trust with campers, schedules, responsibilities, and communication.
That trust starts before you are hired.
Use a clear, polite tone in emails. Show up on time for interviews. Dress appropriately for video calls. Make sure your phone or laptop is charged. Choose a quiet place where you can focus. If you need to reschedule, communicate as early as possible.
It is also a good idea to check your social media presence. Many employers, including camps, may look at public profiles. Make sure anything public reflects the kind of role model you want to be for campers.
Professionalism does not mean being stiff or overly formal. It simply means showing that you are reliable, respectful, and ready to take the opportunity seriously.
Prepare for Common Camp Interview Questions
Once your application gets noticed, the next step is usually an interview. This may happen by phone, video call, or in person.
Preparing ahead of time can help you feel more confident. You do not need to memorize answers, but you should think through examples from your experience.
Common camp interview questions include:
Why do you want to work at summer camp?
What experience do you have working with children?
What age group do you prefer to work with?
What activities could you help lead?
How would you handle a homesick camper?
How would you manage conflict with another staff member?
What would you do if a camper refused to participate?
How do you respond to stressful situations?
What does being a role model mean to you?
What are your strengths and areas for growth?
The best answers are honest and specific. Use examples when you can.
Camp directors are not expecting you to know everything. They want to see how you think, how you communicate, and whether you are willing to ask for help when needed.
Ask Smart Questions During the Interview
A good interview is not just about answering questions. It is also your chance to learn more about the camp.
Asking thoughtful questions shows that you are serious about the role. It also helps you decide whether the camp is the right fit for you.
Good questions to ask include:
What does staff training look like?
What does a typical day at camp look like?
What age group would I most likely work with?
How do you support first-year staff?
What qualities make someone successful at your camp?
What are the biggest challenges staff should be prepared for?
How are staff supervised and supported during the summer?
Are there opportunities to return in future summers?
These questions show that you are thinking beyond getting hired. You are thinking about how to do the job well.
Follow Up After the Interview
After your interview, send a short thank-you email. This is a simple step, but it can leave a strong impression.
Your message does not need to be long. Thank the interviewer for their time, mention something you enjoyed learning about the camp, and restate your interest.
Here is a simple example:
“Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me. I enjoyed learning more about your camp community and the role. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to a positive, safe, and memorable summer for campers.”
A thoughtful follow-up shows professionalism and reinforces your interest in the position.
Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Summer Camp Application
Even strong candidates can weaken their chances by making avoidable mistakes. Before you apply, watch out for these common issues.
One mistake is submitting a generic application. If your answers could apply to any camp, they may not feel memorable. Try to reference the specific role, camp environment, or type of work that interests you.
Another mistake is focusing only on what the job will do for you. Travel, friendship, and resume-building are all real benefits. Still, camps want to know what you will bring to their campers and community.
Applicants may also hurt their chances by responding slowly, using overly casual language, or showing up unprepared for interviews. Camp directors need staff who are dependable, so communication matters.
Finally, avoid exaggerating your skills. If you are not certified as a lifeguard, do not imply that you are. If you have limited experience with children, be honest and focus on your willingness to learn. Camps can train for many things, but they need to trust your honesty.
How to Stand Out as a Summer Camp Job Candidate
If you want to stand out, focus on being clear, genuine, and camper-centered.
You do not need to be the loudest or most experienced applicant. You need to show that you are ready to work hard, support others, and bring a positive attitude to camp life.
Stand out by:
Sharing specific examples from your experience.
Explaining why you want to work with campers.
Highlighting special skills or activity areas.
Showing that you researched the camp.
Communicating quickly and professionally.
Being honest about your strengths and growth areas.
Asking thoughtful interview questions.
Most of all, be yourself. Camps are looking for real people who can connect with campers and contribute to a caring community.
Ready to Find a Summer Camp Job That Fits You?
Getting hired at summer camp starts with finding the right opportunity. Whether you want to be a camp counselor, lifeguard, activity instructor, nurse, media specialist, or support staff member, there are camps looking for people who are ready to make a difference.
Working at camp is more than a summer job. It is a chance to build leadership skills, spend your summer outdoors, make lifelong friendships, and become part of a community that campers will remember for years.
If you are ready to apply, American Summer Camps can help you explore summer camp jobs and connect with camps looking for staff like you.
To get hired at summer camp, research camps that match your interests, submit a thoughtful application, highlight experience working with children, prepare for your interview, and show that you are responsible, flexible, and excited to support campers.
Do I need experience to work at summer camp?
Not always. Many camps hire first-time staff, especially for general counselor roles. However, experience with children, leadership, coaching, tutoring, volunteering, or outdoor activities can make your application stronger.
When should I apply for summer camp jobs?
It is best to apply as early as possible, often in winter or early spring. Many camps continue hiring into spring and early summer, but applying early gives you more options.
What should I put on a summer camp job application?
Include experience that shows responsibility, leadership, teamwork, communication, and comfort working with kids. Babysitting, coaching, tutoring, volunteering, lifeguarding, customer service, and student leadership can all be relevant.
What do summer camps look for in staff?
Summer camps look for staff who are mature, energetic, dependable, patient, and willing to put campers first. Camps also value applicants who communicate well and can work as part of a close team.
How can I stand out in a camp counselor interview?
Research the camp before your interview, give specific examples from your experience, ask thoughtful questions, and explain how you can help create a safe, fun, and supportive experience for campers.
Is working at summer camp good for your resume?
Yes. Working at summer camp can help build leadership, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, organization, and conflict-resolution skills. These skills are useful in many careers, especially education, healthcare, business, social work, recreation, and leadership roles.
Summer employment at a sleepaway camp is enjoyable, engaging, and rewarding. You have the option to share a bunk with other campers on our lovely campus in the Pennsylvania Endless Mountains. Throughout our six activity periods, you will work with campers. However, you will spend a lot more time with the kids than that. You’ll be with them from the time they get up until they go to bed. Mealtimes. Rest Period. Shower Time Activity Intervals You get the opportunity to speak with our incredible campers throughout the day. And just as fortunate as they are to have you as a part of our outstanding staff, you are privileged to be with them.
Even if you spend a lot of time with your campers, all it takes is one moment to make a child’s life completely different. Each of us may recall a single interaction with an adult from our formative years that continues to have an impact on us today. What is the weirdest thing about this “moment”? The youngster and you won’t be aware that it’s happening. You might say something that doesn’t seem important to either of you. Then, days later, you’ve long since forgotten about it while the child is still reflecting on it. Years from now, based on a single chat, you’ve altered that child’s course, and as they desperately look for your phone number to say “Thank You,” you might not even remember that camper.
We just ask that you arrive at sleepaway camp as you – fun, engaging, athletic, eccentric, nerdy, reserved, extroverted, or any combination thereof. We have experienced everything and value it equally. We don’t anticipate that as a staff member, your summer will be full with unforgettable experiences. In actuality, seeking for these opportunities would be fruitless. You may develop trusting relationships with your campers by just being yourself. Therefore, stop looking for this “moment.” Celebrate your uniqueness and savor the time you have with these wonderful kids this summer because they will affect you just as much as you can expect them to.
Working at a summer camp is one of the most memorable and rewarding ways to spend your summer. You get to live outdoors, meet people from all over the world, build real leadership skills, and make a meaningful difference in campers’ lives.
But while camp is full of fun, friendship, and adventure, getting hired still takes preparation. Camps are looking for staff members who are responsible, positive, flexible, and genuinely excited to work with children.
Whether you are applying for your first camp job or hoping to return for another summer, these tips can help you stand out and improve your chances of getting hired at a summer camp.
Before you start applying, take time to think about the kind of camp experience that would suit you best.
Some camps are traditional sleepaway camps with a wide mix of activities. Others focus on sports, outdoor adventure, arts, performing arts, horseback riding, waterfront programs, special needs support, or faith-based communities. Each camp has its own personality, schedule, values, and staff culture.
When you apply to camps that match your interests and strengths, your application will feel more natural and convincing. You will also be able to explain why that specific camp feels like the right fit for you.
Ask yourself:
Do I want to work at an overnight camp or a day camp?
What activities or skills could I teach?
Do I prefer sports, arts, outdoor adventure, waterfront, or general counselor roles?
What age group would I enjoy working with?
What kind of camp community would bring out my best?
The more clearly you understand what you are looking for, the easier it will be to find a camp where you can thrive.
2. Apply Early
Many summer camps begin hiring months before the summer starts. Some roles, especially specialist positions, waterfront jobs, leadership roles, and popular counselor positions, can fill quickly.
Applying early gives you more choices and more time to complete the hiring process. You may need to submit references, complete interviews, provide paperwork, or arrange travel. Some roles may also require certifications, such as lifeguarding, first aid, CPR, or activity-specific qualifications.
Even if you are not completely sure which role is right for you yet, it is worth starting your search early. The sooner you apply, the more opportunities you are likely to have.
3. Tailor Your Application to Each Camp
A generic application is easy to spot. Camp directors want to know that you have taken the time to understand their camp and that you are genuinely interested in joining their community.
Before you apply, read through the camp’s website, job descriptions, activity areas, and mission. Look for details you can mention in your application or interview. Maybe the camp has a strong waterfront program, a focus on outdoor living, a leadership development culture, or a creative arts department that matches your background.
Instead of saying, “I want to work at camp because it seems fun,” try to be specific.
For example:
“I’m excited about your outdoor adventure program because I’ve always loved hiking and team-building activities, and I’d enjoy helping campers build confidence outdoors.”
Or:
“Your performing arts program stood out to me because I have experience in theater and would love to help campers feel confident on stage.”
A tailored application shows effort, enthusiasm, and attention to detail.
4. Highlight Experience Working With Children
You do not always need previous camp experience to get hired, but experience working with children can make your application much stronger.
Think broadly about your background. You may have more relevant experience than you realize. Camps value babysitting, tutoring, coaching, volunteering, mentoring, lifeguarding, teaching lessons, helping younger siblings, working in schools, leading clubs, or assisting with youth programs.
Be specific about what you did and what you learned. Instead of simply writing, “I’m good with kids,” explain how you have supported children in real situations.
For example:
“I coached a youth soccer team and helped younger players build confidence.”
“I babysat for two children after school and helped with homework, meals, and routines.”
“I volunteered at a local youth program and helped lead games and activities.”
“I tutored younger students and learned how to explain things patiently.”
Camp hiring teams want to see that you are responsible, patient, and comfortable being a role model.
5. Show That You Are Responsible and Dependable
Camp is fun, but it is also a big responsibility. Parents trust camps to care for their children, and camps trust staff to create a safe, supportive, and positive environment.
That means responsibility matters.
In your application and interview, show that you can be counted on. Camps want staff members who arrive on time, follow through on commitments, communicate clearly, and stay calm when things get busy.
You can demonstrate responsibility by talking about school, work, volunteering, sports teams, leadership roles, part-time jobs, or family responsibilities. Any example that shows maturity, reliability, and good judgment can help.
Strong camp staff members do not need to be perfect. They do need to be dependable, teachable, and ready to put campers first.
6. Be Ready to Talk About Teamwork
Camp staff live and work closely together. You may share cabins, lead activities with other counselors, support campers as a team, and help with daily routines from morning until night.
Because of this, teamwork is one of the most important qualities camps look for when hiring staff.
Be ready to talk about times when you worked well with others. This could include school projects, sports teams, theater productions, volunteer work, previous jobs, clubs, or group activities.
Good examples show that you can communicate, compromise, listen, encourage others, and stay positive when things do not go exactly as planned.
Camp life is full of shared moments. The best staff members are people who can support their team, jump in where needed, and help create a welcoming community.
7. Prepare for Common Camp Interview Questions
A summer camp interview is usually friendly and conversational, but you should still prepare.
Camp directors are not just looking for the “right” answers. They are trying to understand who you are, how you think, and how you might respond in real camp situations.
Practice answering questions like:
Why do you want to work at summer camp?
What experience do you have working with children?
What activities or skills could you bring to camp?
How would you help a homesick camper?
What would you do if campers were not listening?
How do you handle long days and busy schedules?
What does being a role model mean to you?
How would your friends or teachers describe you?
Why do you think this camp is a good fit for you?
Use real examples whenever possible. Stories are more memorable than general statements.
For example, instead of saying, “I’m a good leader,” you could say, “Last year, I helped organize a school fundraiser. I had to communicate with volunteers, solve last-minute problems, and keep everyone motivated.”
That kind of answer gives the interviewer a clearer picture of how you would act at camp.
8. Let Your Personality Come Through
Camp hiring teams are looking for responsible staff, but they are also looking for people who bring warmth, energy, creativity, and joy to the camper experience.
Do not be afraid to let your personality show.
If you are the person who helps shy people feel included, talk about that. If you are creative, outdoorsy, sporty, musical, silly, patient, organized, or adventurous, let those qualities come through in your application and interview.
Campers remember staff who make them feel seen, encouraged, and excited to try new things. Your personality is part of what you bring to camp.
The goal is not to pretend to be someone else. The goal is to show the camp who you are and how you could contribute to their community.
9. Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of your interview, you will usually have a chance to ask questions. This is a great opportunity to show that you are serious about the role and thinking carefully about the camp experience.
You could ask:
What qualities make someone successful on your staff?
What does staff training include?
What does a typical day look like?
How do counselors support homesick campers?
What are the biggest challenges new staff should prepare for?
What types of roles are you still hiring for?
How would you describe the staff community?
Thoughtful questions show maturity and genuine interest. They also help you decide whether the camp is the right fit for you.
Remember, the hiring process goes both ways. Camps are choosing staff, but you are also choosing where you want to spend your summer.
10. Follow Up After Your Interview
After your interview, send a short thank-you email. It does not need to be long or formal. A simple, thoughtful message can leave a strong impression.
You might write something like:
“Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I really enjoyed learning more about your camp and the counselor role. I’m excited about the possibility of joining your staff this summer and contributing to such a positive camp community.”
Following up shows professionalism, gratitude, and enthusiasm. It also keeps you fresh in the hiring team’s mind.
Bonus Tip: Be Open to Different Roles
You may start the process with one specific role in mind, but staying open can help you find the right opportunity.
For example, you might apply to be a general counselor but discover that your background makes you a strong fit for sports, arts, outdoor adventure, office support, waterfront, or activity staff. Camps often look for people who are flexible and willing to help where they are needed most.
Being open does not mean accepting a role that is wrong for you. It simply means being willing to explore different ways you could contribute.
Why Working at Summer Camp Is Worth It
Getting hired at a summer camp is about more than finding a seasonal job. It is a chance to grow as a leader, build your resume, gain experience working with children, and become part of a community that can stay with you for life.
Camp staff often leave the summer with stronger communication skills, more confidence, lifelong friendships, and memories they will never forget.
Most importantly, you get to make a real difference for campers. You might be the person who helps a child try something new, feel included, overcome homesickness, or remember their summer as one of the best experiences of their life.
Ready to Get Hired at a Summer Camp?
If you are excited to spend your summer outdoors, meet new people, build leadership skills, and make a meaningful impact, now is a great time to explore summer camp jobs.
American Summer Camps helps connect applicants with camps across the United States. Whether you are interested in being a counselor, activity specialist, sports coach, waterfront staff member, or support staff, there may be a camp looking for someone just like you.
Browse open summer camp jobs and apply online today.
Working at a summer camp is a great way to get a taste of American culture. Get a job at a camp as an activity leader, counselor, or support staff member before embarking on your cross-country adventure!
What is Summer Camp in the USA?
Children between the ages of six and sixteen can learn new skills in a fun, safe environment away from the confines of a school setting at an American summer camp. Adventure sports and a variety of arts are included in the activities, which are held during the summer.
CNN reports that 26 million kids are anticipated to attend summer camps across the USA this year. Additionally, it discovered that 14,000 day camps and residential camps had been established overall, many of which had a strong emphasis on athletic, cultural, or educational advancement. Nearly half provided specialized programs for people with disabilities.
What types of Summer Camps are there?
While there are many different kinds, the following camps frequently accept international students for the summer:
Day camps
Private sleep-away camps
Religious camps
Not-for-profit camps
Girl scout and boy scout camps
Special needs camps
Sports camps
Specialty camps, such as dance, horseback riding and cooking
What types of summer camp jobs are available?
The support staff, which includes cooks, maintenance workers, and nurses, is necessary to ensure the safe and smooth operation of a camp. Roles for teachers, college students and international students on their gap year typically fall into three categories:
Activity instructor / activity specialist – You’ll get to coach the kids and plan group activities if you are skilled and experienced in a particular sport or hobby, like swimming, tennis, or rock climbing.
Camp counselor / cabin or bunk counselor – Your responsibility will be to make sure that campers enjoy their time at camp by being available, fun and supportive from dawn until dusk.
Support staff – behind the scenes, support staff are those that help make the time enjoyable and seamless for the kids and year-round staff. Cooks, nurses, maintenance staff and security staff are typical support staff roles.
Why should you work at a summer camp?
Accepting such an immersive experience, where you’ll get to live and work at the camp and be given charge of groups of kidsm, typically ranging in age from six to sixteen, has many advantages. This would be perfect if you wanted to become a teacher!
Whatever your motivations are, working abroad at summer camp will help you meet people from all over the world, grow more independent, and pick up new skills that you can use to boost your CV while maximizing your summer vacation.
In this blog, we briefly summarize some of our recent findings related to the seasonal camp staff experience and our work as part of ACA’s National Impact Study.
Working at camp can be a blast and a great opportunity to make lifelong friends while learning skills useful to life beyond camp. Although a great deal of camp research has focused on understanding the benefits of attending camp for youth participants, we know less about what this experience is like for the staff who make the programs happen. Do not fear! Research about seasonal summer camp staff experiences does exist (see Warner et al., 2021 for a review) and more is on the way!
What We’re Learning
Camp can be a complementary setting for young people’s development. In a recent study (Povilaitis et al., 2021), we looked at how the things first-year staff learned at camp compared to what they learned in school and non-camp work. We found that camp employment can be a great setting for young adults to learn relationship skills, leadership, and appreciation for being present in the moment compared to other settings throughout their lives. Our findings suggest that camp employment can be a fertile setting for development that complements learning in school and non-camp work.
Working at camp is meaningful work. In a recent study (for abstract, see Warner et al., 2020, p. 124, full article in press), we wanted to know if camp staff viewed their work at camp as meaningful work, and if so, what about the work experience made it meaningful. Across two groups of staff (first-year and returning staff), we found that young adults think of camp employment as meaningful and that it was meaningful because they could see the impact they were having on youth, their meaningful relationships with coworkers, and opportunities for personal development. We also found that working at camp was more meaningful than non-camp summer work. Finding meaningful work is important to young adults’ career development and our findings suggest that camp can be a great place for young adults to experience it!
Camp employment can contribute to young adults’ career development. In a recent study (Warner & Povilaitis, 2021, p. 63), we wanted to know how working at camp shaped young adults’ work values — or what they desired in their future work. Through interviews with 76 participants who had worked at a summer camp for at least one summer, we found that camp employment was influential in shaping young adults’ work values. We found that the unique characteristics of camp employment (i.e., social setting, impactful work, live-where-you-work, variety) helped young adults’ understand their desires for doing work that makes a difference, that has a supportive work environment and offers opportunities for meaningful relationships with coworkers, work-life balance, personal development, and variety. Our findings suggest that camp employment can be a setting that nurtures young adults’ career development.
First-year staff return to camp because it’s engaging and they feel like they belong. In a recent study (Warner & Sibthorp, 2021, p. 67), we wanted to know what about staff’s experiences working at camp their first summer were related to their return to the same camp for a second summer of work. We found that staff that were highly engaged and felt like they belonged were nearly three times and two times more likely to have returned, respectively. We also found that staff who did not return to camp for a second summer did not return due to pay, different work, and educational opportunities. By looking at staff’s experiences their first summer and their actual return to camp, our findings suggest that creating engaging experiences for first-year staff and helping them feel like they belong can be critical to getting them to come back for a second summer.
What It Means for Camps
It’s clear that there’s a bunch of existing and upcoming research out there about working at camp. This is great, but what does this mean for people who are working directly with camp staff? What can you do to help support staff and make sure they understand the value of their experience? Here are our takeaway points for camp directors:
Help staff recognize they are learning skills. If you have regular staff meetings, ask staff members to identify what they learned that week and share their responses with others. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification and to prompt staff to think more deeply about their responses. For example, if a staff member comments that they learned how to instruct campers in a new version of GaGa, help them identify the skill they learned in this activity (e.g., public speaking, leadership, creativity). When staff hear what skills their peers are learning, they might be more likely to be able to identify what they personally are learning as well.
Learning and development at camp applies to life beyond camp. Taking this concept of learning skills one step further, ask staff how their newly learned skills will impact them in life outside of camp. For example, in an exit survey or journal reflection, encourage staff to think about how they will use these skills in other areas of their lives. You can also prompt them to reflect on certain contexts (e.g., college, other work, personal relationships) or certain groups of skills, such as social emotional learning skills (e.g., communication, respect, empathy) or career-related skills (e.g., organization, time management, problem-solving). Similarly, you could help staff think about what parts of the camp job they liked and would want in future jobs and careers. For example, if a staff member enjoyed the variety of work and active aspect of their camp job, a desk job might be difficult for them in the future. Alternatively, if they enjoyed how they were able to see the meaningfulness of their work and the direct impact they had on campers, this staff member might want to seek out jobs where they can see their impact.
Encourage staff to return. Camp directors recognize that sometimes staff need to move on to different summer experiences like internships or study abroad programs. Other staff might benefit from another summer working at camp. To help encourage staff to return to work at camp, think of ways to increase staff member’s feelings of engagement and sense of belonging. Engagement occurs when staff are immersed in and enjoy the work they are doing. This often occurs with a role change (e.g., arts and crafts counselor becoming a theatre counselor) or added responsibilities (e.g., overseeing other junior staff members). In addition, always think of how you can increase feelings of belonging among staff, whether that be through group bonding events, one-on-one check-ins, or creating a multicultural work environment that recognizes and celebrates the unique backgrounds of staff. Given that the summer camp industry at-large is working to become more inclusive and equitable, culturally responsive and sustaining methods may be a useful way to support staff from a diversity of backgrounds and life experiences so they feel recognized and valued. Helping staff feel connected and valued can go a long way in motivating them to return.
The National Staff Impact Study continues through 2021, so stay tuned for more staff-based research to come!
This blog was written on behalf of Project Real Job’s efforts to help camps recruit, hire, and retain staff.
Photo courtesy of Oak Hill School Summer Programs in Eugene, Oregon
References
Povilaitis, V., Sibthorp, J., & Richmond, D. (2021). Camp employment as a developmental setting for emerging adults: A national mixed-methods study. Journal of Outdoor, Recreation, Education, and Leadership, 13(1), 64-81. https://js.sagamorepub.com/index.php/jorel/article/view/10545
Warner, R. P., Godwin, M., & Hodge, C. J. (2021). Seasonal summer camp staff experiences: A scoping review. Journal of Outdoor, Recreation, Education, and Leadership, 13(1), 40-63.
Robert P. Warner, University of Utah: Robert is a PhD candidate at the University of Utah. He works as a research assistant on projects related to positive youth development through out-of-school time settings, like summer camp and outdoor adventure education. Through his scholarship he seeks to better understand the role of youth recreation experiences and seasonal employment experiences in broader developmental outcomes, as well as increase equitable developmental opportunities for people from a diversity of backgrounds.
Victoria Povilaitis, American Camp Association: Victoria recently completed her PhD at the University of Utah and now works at ACA as a Research Associate. She is a long-time summer camp program director and staffing director. Through her academic work she aims to bridge research and practice and hopes to develop tools and strategies that camp professionals can use when working with campers and staff to facilitate positive experiences for everyone who engages with camp.
Working at a summer camp can be a rewarding and fun experience for many people. Some of the best things about working at a summer camp include:
Being surrounded by nature: Many summer camps are located in beautiful natural settings, surrounded by forests, lakes, and mountains. This can be a great opportunity to spend time outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Building relationships: Summer camp is a place where people from all walks of life come together to work and play. You will have the opportunity to make new friends and build strong relationships with coworkers and campers.
Personal and professional growth: Working at a summer camp can be a challenging and rewarding experience that allows you to develop new skills and grow as a person. You may have the opportunity to take on new responsibilities, lead activities, and work with children.
Making a difference: As a summer camp counselor or staff member, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of campers. You may be able to help campers build self-confidence, learn new skills, and have fun in a safe and supportive environment.
Businesses should hire former camp counselors because they bring real-world communication, leadership, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving skills from a high-responsibility summer camp environment into the workplace.
Former camp counselors bring more to the workplace than many employers realize. A summer at camp requires communication, leadership, patience, creativity, teamwork, and the ability to solve problems in real time. When a candidate has been trusted with the safety, growth, and daily care of children, that experience deserves serious attention on a resume.
Camp counseling is not just a seasonal job. It is a hands-on leadership role that asks young adults to show up every day with energy, responsibility, emotional awareness, and a strong work ethic. Counselors lead activities, support campers, communicate with peers, follow safety procedures, and adapt quickly when plans change.
That combination of skills can be hard to teach in a traditional workplace. It is one of the many reasons businesses should hire former camp counselors.
Camp Counselor Experience Is Real Workplace Experience
At first glance, camp counseling may look like a fun summer job filled with games, lake days, campfires, and outdoor activities. And while camp is certainly full of fun, the counselor role comes with real responsibility.
Former camp counselors often spend their summers managing schedules, leading groups, resolving conflict, comforting homesick campers, and keeping children safe. They work with supervisors, parents, fellow staff members, and campers of different ages and personalities. They also learn how to stay calm, flexible, and positive in a fast-moving environment.
Those are not just “camp skills.” They are workplace skills.
Whether someone is entering education, healthcare, customer service, sales, hospitality, management, operations, marketing, or nonprofit work, camp counselor experience can translate beautifully into a professional setting.
What Skills Do Former Camp Counselors Bring to the Workplace?
Former camp counselors often bring a rare mix of communication, leadership, adaptability, emotional intelligence, organization, and follow-through. These qualities are valuable in almost every industry, especially in roles that require teamwork, customer service, problem-solving, or people management.
A strong former camp counselor may already know how to:
Communicate clearly with different audiences
Lead a group with confidence and patience
Stay calm during unexpected challenges
Work as part of a team
Take feedback and improve quickly
Manage time and routines
Support others through stressful moments
Think creatively when resources are limited
Build trust with people from different backgrounds
Stay positive during long, active days
For employers, that kind of experience matters. It shows that a candidate has already practiced many of the soft skills companies value most.
10 Reasons to Hire Former Camp Counselors
1. They Know How to Communicate Clearly
Communication is one of the most important skills a camp counselor develops. Counselors need to explain rules, give instructions, check in with campers, talk with supervisors, and sometimes communicate with parents.
They also learn that different people need different communication styles. A nervous first-time camper may need warmth and reassurance. A large group may need clear, confident direction. A supervisor may need a quick, accurate update.
That kind of communication experience is incredibly useful in the workplace. Former camp counselors often know how to listen well, speak with purpose, and adjust their tone based on the situation.
2. They Are Comfortable Taking Responsibility
Camp counselors are trusted with a great deal of responsibility. They help care for children, follow safety procedures, manage routines, and make sure campers feel included and supported.
This role requires maturity. Counselors cannot simply “check out” when the day gets busy. They need to stay aware, dependable, and ready to help.
For businesses, that sense of responsibility can be a major asset. Former camp counselors understand what it means to be accountable to a team, a supervisor, and the people depending on them.
3. They Can Solve Problems Under Pressure
At camp, plans change all the time. A thunderstorm may cancel an outdoor activity. A camper may feel homesick before dinner. A group may need a last-minute schedule adjustment. An activity may not go as planned.
Counselors learn how to think on their feet. They make quick decisions, ask for help when needed, and keep the group moving forward.
That problem-solving ability is valuable in any workplace. Businesses need employees who can stay calm, look for solutions, and adapt when things do not go exactly as expected.
4. They Bring Real Leadership Experience
Many entry-level candidates say they have leadership skills. Former camp counselors can usually show it.
They have led cabin groups, activity periods, team games, evening programs, and daily routines. They have modeled positive behavior, set expectations, encouraged participation, and helped campers grow in confidence.
Leadership at camp is not about having a title. It is about earning trust. Counselors learn how to guide others with patience, consistency, and care.
That kind of leadership experience can prepare former counselors for future roles in management, education, customer service, training, sales, and team-based work.
5. They Work Well on a Team
Camp runs on teamwork. Counselors work closely with co-counselors, activity specialists, leadership staff, nurses, kitchen teams, maintenance crews, and administrators. Everyone has a role to play.
Because of that, former camp counselors often understand how to collaborate. They know how to share responsibilities, support coworkers, communicate concerns, and contribute to a larger goal.
In a business setting, this matters. Strong teams need people who are willing to help, listen, pitch in, and keep the bigger picture in mind.
6. They Are Resilient and Adaptable
Camp days can be long, active, and unpredictable. Counselors may be outside in the heat, helping campers through emotional moments, leading back-to-back activities, or adjusting to sudden changes in the schedule.
That environment builds resilience. Former camp counselors often learn how to stay steady, even when they are tired or the day gets challenging.
They also learn how to adapt. If one approach does not work, they try another. If a camper needs extra support, they adjust. And if plans change, they keep going.
Employers benefit from team members who can handle pressure without losing their professionalism.
7. They Are Creative Thinkers
Creativity is part of everyday life at camp. Counselors may need to turn a rainy afternoon into a memorable indoor activity. They may need to make a simple game exciting, help shy campers feel included, or find a new way to explain instructions.
This creativity is practical, not just artistic. Former camp counselors learn how to work with limited time, limited materials, and different personalities.
In the workplace, that kind of creative thinking can help with customer service, marketing, training, operations, team building, and problem-solving.
8. They Pay Attention to Details
When working with children, small details matter. A counselor needs to know who has sunscreen, who is feeling left out, who needs extra encouragement, and who may be struggling quietly.
They also need to follow schedules, safety rules, activity plans, and communication procedures.
This attention to detail can carry over into professional life. Former camp counselors often understand that the small things can affect the bigger outcome.
Whether they are managing a project, helping a customer, preparing a presentation, or supporting a team, they know that details matter.
9. They Have a Strong Work Ethic
Camp counseling is rewarding, but it is not always easy. Counselors often work long, active days in a role that requires energy, patience, responsibility, and consistency.
They need to show up ready to lead, even when they are tired. They need to stay positive for campers, support their team, and follow through on their responsibilities.
That work ethic is valuable in any business. Former camp counselors often understand the importance of dependability, effort, and a positive attitude.
10. They Are Lifelong Learners
The best camp counselors are constantly learning. They learn from supervisors, co-counselors, campers, training sessions, and daily experience. They also learn through feedback.
A counselor might learn how to lead a better activity, communicate more clearly, manage a group more effectively, or support a camper with more patience.
That willingness to grow is a powerful workplace trait. Businesses need employees who are coachable, reflective, and open to improvement.
Former camp counselors are often used to learning in real time, adjusting quickly, and trying again.
How Camp Counselor Skills Match What Employers Want
Many of the skills employers look for in early-career candidates are built every day at camp. Counselors communicate with parents and supervisors, lead groups, respond to unexpected problems, collaborate with peers, and model professionalism for campers who are watching everything they do.
These experiences help build career-ready employees. Former camp counselors often bring strong people skills, but they also bring practical judgment. They have worked in an environment where attitude, preparation, and responsibility matter every day.
That is especially important for businesses hiring recent graduates or early-career professionals. A former camp counselor may already have experience managing real responsibilities, solving interpersonal challenges, and staying composed during busy days.
What Employers Should Look for on a Former Camp Counselor’s Resume
Employers may not always understand the depth of camp counselor experience at first glance. That is why it helps to look closely at how the role is described.
A former camp counselor’s resume may show experience like:
Led a cabin group through daily routines, activities, and conflict resolution
Communicated with supervisors, parents, and peers to support camper safety and well-being
Adapted daily plans due to weather, camper needs, and schedule changes
Managed group behavior in a positive and age-appropriate way
Created engaging activities that encouraged participation and teamwork
Supported campers through homesickness, friendship challenges, and personal growth
Collaborated with staff members to deliver a safe and meaningful camp experience
These are valuable professional experiences. They show leadership, communication, organization, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving.
If a candidate can explain what they learned at camp and how those lessons apply to the workplace, employers should pay attention.
Former Camp Counselors Can Thrive in Many Industries
Camp counselor experience is especially valuable in people-focused fields. However, the skills gained at camp can apply almost anywhere.
Former camp counselors can thrive in roles related to:
Education and teaching
Healthcare support
Customer service
Hospitality and tourism
Sales and account management
Human resources
Marketing and communications
Operations and logistics
Nonprofit work
Youth development
Training and leadership programs
The common thread is people. Former camp counselors know how to connect with others, build trust, communicate clearly, and stay flexible in active environments.
Those qualities are useful in nearly every workplace.
Why Camp Experience Builds Confidence
One of the most powerful parts of working at camp is the confidence it builds. Counselors learn that they can handle more than they expected. They learn how to lead, make decisions, and support others.
They also see the impact of their work. A counselor may help a camper try something new, make a friend, overcome homesickness, or feel proud of themselves.
That kind of experience can be deeply motivating. Former camp counselors often carry that confidence into their next job, internship, interview, or leadership opportunity.
They know they can step into a challenge and figure it out.
Why Businesses Should Not Overlook Camp Counselor Experience
Some employers may see camp counseling as a fun summer job and move on. That can be a missed opportunity.
Camp counselor experience often reveals qualities that are difficult to measure on a resume. It can show patience, maturity, accountability, creativity, leadership, and the ability to work well with others.
It can also show that a candidate is willing to work hard in a role that requires emotional energy, physical stamina, and a genuine commitment to others.
Those traits matter. In many workplaces, they are the difference between an employee who simply completes tasks and an employee who strengthens the whole team.
Final Thoughts: Hire Former Camp Counselors
If you are an employer, do not underestimate the value of camp experience. Former camp counselors have often spent their summers leading groups, solving problems, communicating clearly, and caring for others in a high-responsibility environment.
They know how to work hard. They know how to adapt. And they know how to support a team. Most importantly, they know how to lead with patience, energy, and purpose.
That is why businesses should hire former camp counselors. Their experience may come from cabins, trails, fields, lakes, and campfires, but the skills they bring are ready for the workplace.
Looking to Build These Skills Yourself?
Working at camp is one of the best ways to grow as a leader, gain hands-on experience, and make a meaningful impact. A summer camp job can help you build communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills that last well beyond the summer.
Explore summer camp jobs with American Summer Camps and find a role where your next adventure can also help shape your future career.
Yes. Former camp counselors often bring communication, leadership, patience, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability to the workplace. Their experience shows they can handle responsibility and work well with others.
What skills do camp counselors develop?
Camp counselors develop transferable skills such as leadership, conflict resolution, public speaking, time management, creativity, resilience, and emotional intelligence. They also learn how to stay calm and flexible in a busy environment.
Should I hire former camp counselors for my business?
Employers should value camp counselor experience because it shows that a candidate can lead, communicate, solve problems, and take responsibility. These are useful skills in almost every professional setting.
Is camp counselor experience good for a resume?
Yes. Camp counselor experience can strengthen a resume because it shows real-world leadership, communication, teamwork, and accountability. It is especially useful for students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals.
What jobs are former camp counselors good at?
Former camp counselors can succeed in education, customer service, healthcare support, sales, hospitality, management, operations, nonprofits, and other people-focused roles. Their skills are especially valuable in jobs that require communication and adaptability.
How can former camp counselors describe their experience in an interview?
A former camp counselor should describe specific examples of leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. They can talk about leading groups, supporting campers, handling schedule changes, or resolving conflicts.
Why do camp counselors make strong leaders?
Camp counselors make strong leaders because they learn how to guide others with patience, confidence, and care. They also gain experience making decisions, managing groups, and setting a positive example.
