There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a warm summer evening at camp in the U.S. Imagine the crackling of the campfire, the smell of freshly roasted s’mores, and the joyful sound of campers singing their favorite campfire songs.
During the day, camp counsellors are leading exciting outdoor activities, guiding youth through new challenges, and soaking up the sunshine. Nights are filled with laughter, stories, and the satisfying feeling that you’ve made a lasting impact on someone’s summer. This is the magic of an American summer camp, and it’s where lifelong memories are made.
At AmeriCamp UK, we connect young adults from across the globe with these iconic summer camp experiences in the U.S. As an organization rooted in the mission of fostering global exchange, we’re committed to helping you work at a camp and embark on a life-changing journey. From visa assistance to comprehensive training and placement, AmeriCamp is your guide to a summer of adventure, cultural immersion, and unforgettable moments.
Whether you’re looking for an opportunity to travel, gain new skills, or make lifelong friends from around the world, AmeriCamp provides support, opportunities, and a summer experience that will stay with you for years to come.
Start your 2025 summer camp application today.
AmeriCamp: Redefining Summer Adventure Camp
What if you could combine adventure, cultural exchange, and making a difference all in one incredible summer? That’s exactly what AmeriCamp is all about! We facilitate unforgettable summer adventure camp experiences that connect people from all corners of the globe. Read more about our camp experience for a full overview of the program.
U.S. summer adventure camps bring together passionate, talented young adults from across the world to create a community where new perspectives are shared. On average, American summer camps get 14 million registrations every year. Most importantly, everyone returns home with memories (and stories) that will last a lifetime.
Summer Camp Roles With AmeriCamp
AmeriCamp provides a wide range of opportunities for counsell
ors, ensuring that no matter your skill set or interests, there’s a role that’s perfect for you.
- General Counsellors - As a general counsellor, you’ll be at the heart of camp life. You’ll lead campers through their daily activities, participate in camp traditions, and be a mentor.
- Specialists - If you have expertise in a specific area, like sports, arts, or outdoor adventure, you can apply to be a specialist counsellor. You’ll teach and lead campers in your field of expertise, helping them develop new skills.
- Special Needs Counsellors - AmeriCamp counsellors who specialize in working with children with special needs fill a particularly rewarding role. You’ll make a meaningful impact in the lives of campers who require extra care and attention.
Each of these roles offers the chance to develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, all while working in a dynamic and supportive environment. If you’re eager to learn more, read our tips on how to be a good camp counsellor.
Wide Range of Activities
Summer camps are packed with activities that vary from camp to camp, but many share a few key core activities. Between 70% and 80% of day camp attendees meet the recommended levels of physical activity during their camp time. You might find yourself:
- Teaching swimming lessons
- Leading a group on a nature hike
- Coaching soccer games
- Setting up an obstacle course
- Hiding items for a scavenger hunt
- Preparing a river rafting trip
- Teaching fishing
- Rock climbing
- Practicing martial arts
There are also opportunities for creative expression through arts and crafts, drama, or music. Check out some of our favorite camp counsellor activity ideas. No matter the camp’s focus, adventure, teamwork, and personal growth are always central to the experience.
Global Network of Counsellors
One of the things that sets AmeriCamp apart is our global reach. Participants come from over 50 countries, bringing with them a wealth of experiences, skills, and cultural backgrounds. This diversity enriches the camp environment and offers an incredible learning experience for counsellors and campers. Whether teaching a song from your home country or learning a new game from a fellow cunsellor across the globe, the connections you make will broaden your worldview and create lasting friendships.
The Benefits of Being a Counsellor at a Summer Adventure Camp
Being a camp counsellor is more than just a summer job. It’s a life-changing experience filled with learning, growth, and adventure. Programs like AmeriCamp offer a unique and rewarding experience with personal and professional benefits that include:
- Cultural exchange and global awareness
- Personal growth and leadership skills
- Building lifelong friendships
- Enhancing your resume
- Exploring the USA
Cultural Exchange and Global Awareness
As a camp counsellor, you'll be immersed in an environment with participants from diverse cultural backgrounds, which fosters intercultural understanding and diplomacy. This hands-on experience helps you learn about different customs, languages, and worldviews, enhancing your cultural competence and communication skills.
Personal Growth and Leadership Skills
Counsellors are responsible for guiding and mentoring campers, which develops leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. From organizing activities to managing group dynamics, every day presents new challenges that help you grow into a more confident and capable leader.
Building Lifelong Friendships
Camps are social hubs, bringing together youth from all over the world. You’ll form deep connections with your fellow counsellors and campers, forming friendships that last a lifetime.
Enhancing Your Resume
Working as a camp counsellor looks great on your resume, especially if you're seeking a career in education, psychology, recreation, or any field involving teamwork and leadership. Employers value the skills you gain from this experience.
Exploring the USA
Besides getting to work in a beautiful camp setting, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore different parts of the United States during your time off or after camp ends. Many counsellors use this chance to embark on exciting post-camp road trips, making memories along the way.
A Day in the Life as an AmeriCamp Counsellor
What does the typical day of an AmeriCamp cunsellor look like? It’s 7 AM and you wake up to the sound of birds chirping and the morning sun rising over the campgrounds. Before you know it, you’re leading a group of excited campers to breakfast, already full of energy for the day ahead.
By 9 a.m., you’re leading your first activity. Maybe you’re swimming at the lake, teaching archery, or leading arts and crafts. At 11 a.m., you move on to a team-building game, helping campers work together and build new friendships.
Lunchtime gives you a chance to sit down with the kids, share stories, and catch up with fellow counsellors. The afternoon might include a nature hike, canoeing trip, or sports tournament. As the day winds down, you spend some free time with campers or attend a staff meeting.
By 6 p.m., it’s dinner time, where you’ll laugh and share stories of the day. After the sun sets, it’s time for campfire traditions. You’ll lead songs, tell stories, roast marshmallows, and watch your campers form lifelong memories. By 10 p.m., it’s lights out for the campers, and you’ll have a quiet moment to reflect on the day before heading to bed.
Being a counsellor means making a real difference. You’ll watch campers grow more confident, form friendships, and try things they’ve never done before. Plus, you gain leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that will stay with you long after the summer ends. Every day brings new challenges, rewards, and reasons to fall in love with camp life.
Types of U.S. Summer Adventure Camps at AmeriCamp
Are you wondering where to work at a USA summer camp? AmeriCamp offers placements at hundreds of summer camps across the United States, each offering a unique environment for cunsellors. Whether you’re seeking a traditional summer camp in California or a more specialized setting, there’s a camp to match your skills and personality.
- Traditional camps
- Special needs camps
- All boys/girls camps
- Faith-based camps
Traditional Camps
Most cunsellors choose traditional summer camps for a classic American camp experience. These camps are typically overnight (residential), where campers stay in cabins for days or weeks. You’ll work and live alongside campers, guiding them through activities, from sports to arts and workshops. Most traditional camps are nestled in scenic settings, surrounded by beautiful lakesides or forested areas.
Special Needs Camps
For those with a passion for helping others, special needs camps provide a deeply rewarding experience. There are many reasons to become a special needs camp cunsellor. These camps cater to children with physical, emotional, or developmental needs, such as high-functioning autism, offering them an inclusive environment where they can enjoy traditional camp activities with tailored support. Special needs cunsellors and specialists play a vital role in creating a safe, nurturing space for these campers.
All Boys/All Girls Camps
AmeriCamp offers placements at all-boys or all-girls camps. These camps emphasize teamwork, mentorship, and skill-building within a focused setting. Another common characteristic of these camps is that they often have programs tailored to the unique interests of the campers.
Faith-Based Camps
Christian camps, Jewish camps, and other faith-based summer camps integrate spirituality with typical camp activities, fostering an environment where campers can explore their faith alongside traditional outdoor experiences. Our faith-based camps are often affiliated with Christian and Jewish religious organizations, offering a great opportunity for cunsellors who share values.
Apply for Summer Adventure Camp as an AmeriCamp Counsellor
Ready for an unforgettable summer? If you’re wondering how to work at a summer camp in America, applying to become an AmeriCamp cunsellor is easy. The process ensures you’re fully prepared and supported every step of the way from the initial application to landing in the U.S.
- Start your 2025 online application. Fill out basic information about yourself, your skills, and your interests, so we can match you with the perfect camp and role. The application will also ask about any experience you have working with kids, specific talents, or certifications (like lifeguarding or coaching) that might help you stand out. Here are some tips for building the best camp cunsellor resume.
- Once you submit your application, you’ll move on to the interview stage, which is where we get to know you better. You get a chance to show your enthusiasm for working at summer camp. The camp cunsellor interview questions help us find the best placement for you.
- Next comes the J-1 Visa summer work travel program application process. The J-1 visa allows you to legally work as a camp cunsellor in the U.S. for the summer. AmeriCamp guides you through the steps to complete the paperwork for your visa. As your visa sponsor, we provide your DS-2019 form (a key document for your visa).
- You’ll need to schedule an appointment with your local U.S. embassy for a visa interview. The timeline for this can vary depending on your location, so we recommend getting this done as soon as possible (ideally 4-6 weeks before your departure date) to ensure everything is sorted in time.
Once your visa is approved, you’re officially on your way to the U.S. AmeriCamp assists with your travel logistics. A pre-arranged orientation session ensures you’re fully prepped for camp life. With AmeriCamp’s support, the application and visa process is smooth and stress-free. This way, you can focus on getting excited for your summer adventure.
Tips for a Successful Summer Adventure at AmeriCamp
Making the most of your AmeriCamp experience requires preparation, flexibility, and enthusiasm. Here are essential tips to help you have a smooth, enjoyable, and successful summer adventure.
- Be open-minded
- Stay organized
- Communicate effectively
- Embrace camp spirit
- Take care of yourself
Be Open-Minded
You’ll meet people from all walks of life, with different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. Embrace this diversity with an open mind. Flexibility and acceptance will make your camp experience richer and more enjoyable. Be curious about different traditions, and take the opportunity to learn from those around you. By appreciating new ideas, you’ll create meaningful connections with both campers and fellow staff.
Stay Organized
From travel documents to packing the right gear, being organized is key to a smooth start. Bring camp cunsellor essentials like comfortable clothes, a water bottle, and any personal items you might need. Having duplicates of important documents like your passport, visa, and health insurance details will also give you peace of mind. Establish a routine early on to keep track of your daily tasks, schedules, and responsibilities so you don’t feel overwhelmed as camp progresses.
Communicate Effectively
Whether you're working with campers or other staff members, clear and effective communication is crucial. Listen actively, be patient, and express yourself clearly to avoid misunderstandings and create a supportive environment. Make sure to give campers positive reinforcement and be clear with your expectations. You’ll be in a leadership role, so setting a good example by fostering open communication will improve teamwork and help resolve any conflicts quickly.
Embrace Camp Spirit
Dive into the camp’s traditions, whether it’s participating in evening campfires, theme nights, or talent shows. Remember, the campers will follow your lead. The more excitement and energy you bring to these events, the more they’ll enjoy the experience. Being enthusiastic and embracing the fun atmosphere creates a positive environment for you and the campers.
Take Care of Yourself
Camps are physically and emotionally demanding, with long hours and constant interaction. Prioritize your health by getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, and staying hydrated. Recognize when you need a break and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed. Self-care is vital for ensuring that you can bring your best self to the job every day.
Staying Connected: The AmeriCamp Alumni Network
Life after camp doesn’t mean saying goodbye to AmeriCamp, it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. Whether you want to stay involved as an ambassador, attend reunions, or share your experience with the next generation of cunsellors, there are plenty of ways to stay connected. AmeriCamp’s alumni network is a close-knit community of past cunsellors who, like you, have had their lives changed by their time at camp.
Laura’s Experience
In March 2018, between her 2nd and 3rd year of university, Laura wanted to travel, gain work experience, and escape the chill of Scotland. A friend’s recommendation led her to explore summer camps in America. After doing her research and finding AmeriCamp, she was impressed with how easy the process was. All the details were laid out. Laura’s summer turned into more than just a break from school. The experience expanded her worldview and shaped her future career path.
Sophie’s Experience
Sophie spent her summer as a general cunsellor at a special needs camp in Iowa. She didn’t have previous experience working with individuals with special needs. With training and support from the camp leadership, Sophie discovered the incredible joy that comes from creating a safe, inclusive environment where campers feel respected and accepted. For many of the campers, it was their only time away from home all year, and Sophie knew she was helping make it an unforgettable week for them.
These examples illustrate how AmeriCamp experiences stay with you long after camp ends. Many alumni use their experience as a springboard into careers in education, healthcare, or social work.
Ready to Plan Your Summer Adventure Camp Journey in 2025?
If you're ready to make lasting memories, develop new skills, and embrace the adventure of a lifetime, AmeriCamp is your partner for an unforgettable summer in the USA. Work with campers, explore new cultures, and enjoy the beauty of nature. AmeriCamp has a wide variety of camps to match your interests and skills.
Don’t miss the chance to create stories you’ll share for years to come. Applications are open for 2025! Apply today to secure your spot for the summer adventure of a lifetime.
