What types of camps are there?
Camp Leaders works with a wide range of camps across the US, each one different and unique. The main types include:
Traditional camps offer a mix of activities like sports, arts, swimming, and outdoor adventures. They are the most common type of camp
Faith-based camps are affiliated with a religious community. You do not need to be of a specific faith to work at one, though some camps may prefer it
Additional needs camps work with campers who have disabilities or additional support needs. These are some of the most rewarding placements
Specialty camps focus on a specific area like sports, performing arts, science, or outdoor adventure
Day camps operate during daytime hours, with campers going home each evening rather than staying overnight
When you apply, a camp questionnaire will ask about your preferences and willingness to work with different types of campers. This helps match you with the right camp.
Do I need to be religious to work at a faith-based camp?
No. Some faith-based camps may prefer you to be of a specific faith or actively practicing, but most hire based on personality and skill. As long as you are willing to work at a faith-based camp, you can apply.
Do I need experience to work at an additional needs camp?
No. You do not need previous experience to work with additional needs campers. Before campers arrive, you will have at least a week to settle in, meet your co-counselors, and get oriented. The camper-to-counselor ratio at these camps is usually 1:1 or 2:1, so there will always be experienced staff around to support and guide you. The best additional needs counselors are flexible and compassionate.
How does Camp Leaders select the camps it works with?
Every camp on the Camp Leaders program goes through a vetting process before being accepted as a partner. Camp Leaders reviews factors including ACA accreditation, camp facilities, staff support, and the overall experience offered to participants. Camps are reviewed annually using participant feedback to make sure Camp Leaders only works with camps that meet its standards.
What is the difference between a counselor and support staff?
Camp counselors work directly with children. You will live with campers, lead activities, and be a role model throughout their camp experience. Most counselors are aged 18 and over, and you do not need to be a student.
Support staff work behind the scenes to keep camp running. Roles include kitchen, maintenance, grounds, office, laundry, housekeeping, and more. You will live separately from campers and will not be directly responsible for children. Support staff must be current students (this is a visa requirement) and typically earn more pocket money than counselors.
What does a camp counselor do day-to-day?
As a camp counselor, your day is non-stop. From waking campers up in the morning to putting them to bed at night, you keep camp running smoothly. You are a role model for your campers and responsible for their wellbeing and enjoyment.
You will tour around with your group of campers, keeping them on schedule, and work alongside activity specialists to provide a safe and fun experience.
What is an activity specialist?
An activity specialist is a type of counselor who leads campers in a specific activity, such as archery, swimming, arts and crafts, dance, or drama. Campers rotate through your sessions throughout the day, so you will meet everyone at camp. Your camp will provide training before campers arrive, and you will usually have help from the counselor in charge of each group.
If you have a skill or passion you would love to share, this is a great way to spend the summer doing what you love.
What does an additional needs counselor do?
Additional needs counselors (sometimes called special needs counselors) work with campers who have disabilities or additional support needs. You do not need previous experience, just compassion and patience. Before campers arrive, you will have at least a week to settle in, meet your co-counselors, and get oriented. The camper-to-counselor ratio at these camps is usually 1:1 or 2:1, so you will always have support around you.
This is widely considered one of the most rewarding roles at camp. You will gain valuable experience for your CV, especially if you are pursuing a career in education, healthcare, or social care.
What do support staff roles look like day-to-day?
Support staff roles vary widely. Common positions include kitchen, maintenance, grounds, office, laundry, housekeeping, and security. Each role has its own schedule. Kitchen staff may have early starts and split shifts. Office staff typically work daytime hours. Grounds and maintenance staff may start early when the weather is cooler.
The first few weeks can be tough as the team gets used to working together, but it gets easier.
Can my role change after I am placed?
Camp may need to adjust your role based on enrollment numbers, operational needs, or if you do not pass a required certification. While camps will do their best to keep placements as assigned, their priority is making sure participants can perform their duties safely.
It is important to know that camps cannot move you into a role that falls under a different visa category. Camp counselors should not perform support staff duties and vice versa. If your role is changed in a way that crosses visa categories, contact Camp Leaders immediately.
What is a CIT or LIT?
CIT stands for Counselor in Training and LIT stands for Leader in Training. These are programs for older campers (usually 15 to 17 years old) who are learning to become counselors. They are not staff, but you may work alongside them or help mentor them during the summer.
How old are the campers?
Every camp is different, and age groups vary depending on the type of camp. Most campers are aged from 6 to 16. Your Camp Director can tell you more about the specific age groups at your camp during the interview process.
How many campers will be at camp?
The number of campers varies greatly depending on the size of the camp. Some camps host a few dozen, while others welcome hundreds. You will be able to ask your Camp Director about this during your interview.
What are campers with additional needs like?
You may work with a wide range of campers, including individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities like Autism or Down syndrome, behavioral conditions such as ADHD, or physical disabilities such as Spina bifida. Some camps focus on supporting campers with specific types of needs, while others welcome people with a variety of abilities and challenges.
Wherever you are placed, you will be making a real difference, helping campers enjoy a fun and meaningful summer that might not be possible without your support.
How are campers grouped?
Camps typically group campers by age and gender, and sometimes by skill level for specific activities. This creates appropriate social dynamics and allows for age-appropriate programming. Some camps use a unit or village system where similar age groups form a larger community, and activity groups may be mixed-age to encourage mentorship.
The specific approach varies by camp philosophy, but all aim to create safe, supportive environments where campers can build meaningful relationships.
How do camps structure activities?
Activity scheduling varies between camps. Some offer a set rotation where cabin groups move together through various activities. Others offer a mix of required and elective activities, giving campers some choice in their schedules. Many camps blend these approaches with structured morning activities and choice periods in the afternoon.
Specialty camps may focus more intensively on their core activities while still offering variety. This balance allows campers to develop skills in areas they enjoy while also being encouraged to try new things.