Summer camp jobs in the USA

What is an American summer camp?

Summer camps are a long-established part of US culture, offering recreational and developmental programmes for more than 26 million children and teenagers each year. They're usually based in:

• forests
• lakes
• national parks.

Depending on the camp, you could be involved in activities like:

• arts and crafts
• campfire evenings
• hiking and canoeing
• sports and team games
• swimming.

Most camps run for eight to 10 weeks between June and August, although some start as early as mid-May. You'll usually need to be available for the full duration of the season.

What's it like to work at a summer camp?

Day-to-day life at camp is busy, structured and often physically demanding. While schedules vary, your typical day might include:

• early starts (often before 7am) to help campers get ready
• leading or supporting activity sessions
• night supervision
• running or taking part in evening activities such as group games or campfires
• supervising mealtimes.

If you're a camp counsellor, you'll likely be responsible for the same group of children throughout the day. That means long periods 'on duty' and limited personal time.

You'll usually live in shared cabins or dorm-style accommodation. Facilities can be quite basic, particularly in more remote locations, so privacy and downtime may be limited compared with other work abroad experiences.

Here's a quick look at the main pros and cons of working at a summer camp:

Why work at a summer camp?

Although it can be demanding, many students find working at a summer camp a really rewarding experience.

In most roles, you'll be working with children aged six to 16, and you'll have the chance to:

• build confidence and independence
• develop the skills employers want like leadership, communication and teamwork
• gain practical work experience working with children
• meet people from around the world
• spend extended time outdoors and try new activities.

These are all useful if you're thinking about a career in:

• social care
• teaching
• youth work.

You'll also be part of a close-knit community and are likely to form strong friendships, which is why summer camps are such a popular gap year option.

That said, it's not for everyone. A summer camp job might not suit you if you:

• are mainly looking to earn money
• find structured or high-energy environments challenging
• prefer independent travel or flexible schedules.

You're more likely to enjoy it if you're comfortable in structured, social and high-energy environments. Being honest with yourself about what you want from the experience is important before applying.

What types of camps are there?

There are lots ofsummer camps in the USA, each offering a slightly different experience:

• camps for children with additional needs - support with physical, learning or developmental needs
• day camps - run like a school day, with staff usually living nearby or off-site
• Girl Scout camps - outdoor programmes developing independence and resilience
• not-for-profit camps - usually more affordable and focused on accessibility
• private camps - focus on sports or specialist activities and may require specific skills
• religious camps - run by faith organisations for particular communities.

Some camps also specialise in areas such as:

• creative arts
• outdoor adventure and environmental education
• science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM)

What summer camp jobs are available?

Most roles available to UK applicants fall into three main categories:

• activity instructor - you'll lead and teach specific activities such as sports, climbing or swimming
• camp counsellor (cabin leader) - you'll supervise and support campers throughout the day, from morning routines to evening activities
• support staff - roles in catering, maintenance or administration (these often require full-time student status for visa purposes).

What experience do you need?

You don't need formal teaching qualifications, but you will need prior experience working with children.

Providers are also looking for people who can show they're responsible and able to work as part of a team. Experience that can help you stand out includes:

• coaching badges or specialist activity skills
• confidence, enthusiasm and adaptability
• first aid or lifeguard qualifications
• previous leadership experience.

This might include:

• babysitting or childcare
• leading Scouts, Guides or similar organisations
• sports coaching
• tutoring
• volunteering at schools or youth groups.

Am I eligible?

Requirements vary depending on the provider. Before you apply, check that you meet the basic requirements below:

• aged 18 to 30 (most providers)
• have experience working with children
• meet J-1 visa requirements
• no criminal background.

Some providers have slightly different criteria. For example:

• BUNAC requires previous childcare experience and a clean criminal record
• Camp America doesn't require student status for counsellor roles, but support roles (such as its Campower Programme) do.

How does the visa process work?

Most participants apply for a J-1 Exchange Visitor visa, which allows you to:

• stay in the country for up to 30 days after your placement to travel
• work at a summer camp in the USA for a fixed period.

Your visa is usually sponsored by the programme provider, who will:

• arrange the necessary documentation
• guide you through the application process
• provide support before you travel.

As part of the J-1 visa application process, you may be asked to provide details of your social media accounts. US authorities can review publicly available content as part of their background checks, so it's important to make sure your profiles reflect you positively.

Before you apply, take time to review your online presence and remove or adjust anything that could be seen as inappropriate or unprofessional.

You'll also need to attend a US Embassy appointment and pay a visa fee. Processing times can vary, so it's a good idea to apply early.

How much does the summer camp programme cost?

You'll normally choose between:

• non-flight packages - where you arrange your own travel
• flight-inclusive packages - where the provider organises your flights.

For example, with Camp America:

• non-flight packages cost around £489
• flight-inclusive packages cost around £695.

You'll also need to budget for:

• J-1 visa application fee of approximately $138 (£105)
• medical checks
• return flights
• SEVIS fee (£200)
• travel insurance
• UK background check (around £65).

Overall, costs typically range from £500 to £700 depending on the package.

How much can I earn?

As a first-time participant, you'll usually earn around £970 to £1,700, depending on your role and provider. If you return for another summer, you may be able to negotiate higher pay directly with camps.

While you'll usually earn more than you spend on programme costs, most people choose summer camp roles for the experience rather than to make money.

Most programmes include:

• accommodation
• meals
• medical insurance
• visa sponsorship.

While you will be paid, most people choose to work at a summer camp for the experience rather than the salary. Some providers, such as BUNAC, guarantee a minimum salary of around $2,300 (£1,720).

When should I apply?

Application timelines generally follow the academic year:

• September to October - applications open
• October to December - interviews take place
• January to March - peak hiring period
• Spring - most roles are filled.

Applying early gives you the best chance of securing the role and camp you want.

How do I apply to an American summer camp?

Once you've chosen a provider, the process usually involves:

• submitting an online application and paying a registration fee
• attending an interview (either in person or online)
• completing your placement and visa process.

For example, with BUNAC, you'll typically pay:

• £49 deposit when you register
• £145 after a successful interview
• £169 when your placement is confirmed

Interviews are held across the UK, including:

• Cardiff
• Belfast
• Edinburgh
• Glasgow
• London
• Manchester
• Newcastle.

Many providers also run university events and virtual job fairs, giving you additional opportunities to learn more and apply.

Is it safe to work at a summer camp?

Summer camps and programme providers are expected to follow safeguarding procedures, including:

• background checks for staff
• clear behaviour and safety rules
• supervision policies and training.

Providers are also looking for people who can show they're responsible and able to work as part of a team.

What should I pack and prepare?

Make sure you pack practical essentials for daily camp life, including:

• bedding or sleeping essentials (if these aren't provided)
• comfortable, durable footwear
• practical clothing for outdoor activities
• some spending money
• toiletries and any basic medication you might need.

It's also worth thinking about a few practical details before you travel:

• check whether any vaccinations are required in advance
• phone access may be limited depending on camp rules
• you'll need the right travel insurance and documents.

Space in cabins and dorms is often limited, so try to pack light but focus on what you'll use day to day.

What happens after camp?

Working at a summer camp can strengthen your CV, especially if you're applying for roles in:

• childcare or youth work
• customer-facing roles
• education and teaching
• leadership or team-based environments.

After your placement finishes, you'll usually have up to 30 days on your visa to travel around the USA. Many people use this time to explore the country on a budget.

Other common next steps include:

• moving into careers in education, coaching or international work
• returning to camp for a second summer.

Planning ahead can help you make the most of both your placement and your time afterwards.

Find out more

• Build your experience by working with children.
• Discover how to plan your gap year.
• Explore volunteering opportunities abroad.