What To Expect Working At A US Summer Camp

Thinking of swapping your summer for s’mores, sunshine, and serious adventure? Working at a US summer camp is one of the most unforgettable travel experiences you can have. From early morning lake dips to campfire sing-alongs, you’ll create incredible memories, meet lifelong friends, and gain valuable life skills—all while having the summer of your life.

But we’re not here to tell you why you should work at a summer camp in the USA. This article is about what to expect once you get there!

If you’re looking for an easy way to get started, our friends at BUNAC offer a brilliant Summer Camp USA program. They’ll help sort your placement, visa, and give you support throughout—so you can focus on packing your sense of adventure.

Here’s what to expect when you say yes to a US summer camp and set off to camp America!

Tech-Free Experiences

According to the AACAP, American kids aged 4–12 spend around 4–6 hours a day behind screens, while teens rack up a whopping 9 hours on average. That’s why many summer camps go tech-free. They encourage kids (and staff) to unplug and truly connect.

As a camp counsellor or activity leader, you’ll also put your phone away and lean into the off-grid lifestyle. A US camp experience is all about replacing those hours wasted on tech and getting outdoors or creative.

Imagine swapping screen time for paddle boarding across a glassy lake, hiking wooded trails, or crafting under the stars. It’s a rare chance to be present, playful, and part of something bigger.

Lifelong Friendships

You’ll arrive at camp as strangers, but leave with friends for life.

Whether it’s bonding over shared cabin chaos, late-night chats by the campfire, or celebrating successes with your co-leaders, the connections you make at camp run deep. You’ll meet people from all over the world, and those shared experiences create friendships that last long after the final s’more.

Deeper Connections

You’ll soon embrace the deeper connections while working at an American summer camp. And we’re not just talking about forming friendships. You’ll get to connect on a deeper level with:

• Nature – Spend your days surrounded by forests, lakes, and fresh air. You’ll start to crave the outdoors like never before.
• You – Being away from home in a totally new environment gives you a huge confidence boost. You’ll learn what you’re capable of—and surprise yourself.
• Leadership – Whether you’re teaching archery, leading sing-alongs, or helping homesick kids, you’ll develop leadership and communication skills that stick.

Life is all about embracing and finding those deeper connections. Your time at camp in America is building life skills and opening up the world for you to take in.

Feeling Alive

There’s a reason why American summer camps are the stuff of movies. It’s a full-on, feel-good experience! For real.

Think: running from your cabin at 6 am, diving into a lake, leading chants with kids who think you’re the coolest person alive, and throwing yourself into each day with a big “hoo-haa!” energy.

It’s high-energy, high-spirited, and honestly, the most fun you’ll ever have at “work.” Camp America (or wherever you end up) is the best summer job in the world.

Need help choosing a camp? Check out BUNAC’s guide to the best US summer camps. These guys are professionals and know the best camps like the back of their hand.

Discover Meaning

Camp is so much more than just a summer job. You’ll play a real role in helping young people grow and thrive, especially those who struggle socially or emotionally.

You might be teaching something you’re passionate about, like music, swimming, or drama. And in doing so, fall in love with it all over again. Watching kids gain confidence because of you is one of the most rewarding parts of camp life.

While you may not end up going into teaching as a career, a summer camp job will teach you a solid meaning behind happiness, life, and connection.

Find Your Second Family

Camp life is intense (in the best possible way). You live, work, laugh, and sometimes cry together. Your co-counsellors become your family, and the bonds you build are full of in-jokes, shared memories, and mutual support.

You’ll leave with a new family who live all over the world! Perfect for keen travellers. You’ll have a sofa to stay on all around the globe.

It Will Be Hard To Leave!

By the end of the summer, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without bug juice, bunk inspections, and talent shows. Camp has a funny way of getting under your skin—in the best way.

Expect that leaving will be tough. But remember, you’ll carry the confidence, friendships, and memories with you for life. And… You can always come back next year!

Different Camp Types

Not all camps are the same. Some are rustic and outdoorsy, others are faith-based, while some cater specifically to children with disabilities or special needs. It’s worth doing a bit of research—or asking BUNAC to help match you to a camp that suits your vibe, skills, and interests.

We strongly advise that you read up on the different types of US summer camps.

There may be a type of camp you are drawn to more than others. Likewise, there may be a type of camp that you would rather not work at.

The Pay & Perks

While summer camp jobs aren’t about getting rich, you do get paid.

Most camps provide accommodation, meals, and sometimes travel bonuses. Plus, after your contract ends, you’ll often have time to travel around the US before heading home, perfect for ticking off those bucket-list destinations.

What to Pack

You’ll get a full packing list from your camp, but here’s the short version: expect to live in shorts, tees, swimwear, and sturdy shoes. Bring a few personal touches to help you settle in. Some people take photos from home, a favourite hoodie, and maybe a costume or two (theme days are big).

Want to know more about what to pack?

Check out our Ultimate Guide to Working at Summer Camps in America and make use of the packing checklist towards the end.

Expect the Unexpected

Camp life can be unpredictable. Some people get homesick, plans change with the weather, and you’ll definitely be thrown in the deep end now and again. But that’s all part of the fun.

If you can embrace the chaos with a sense of humour, you’ll thrive. That we’re certain of!

Ready to Dive In?

If you’re up for the adventure of a lifetime, a US summer camp is the ultimate summer job. Whichever camp you choose to go for, you are guaranteed the time of your life.

And don’t forget to sort your travel insurance with us before you go. We’ve got your back, so you can focus on rock climbing, doing front flips off the diving board, and immersing yourself in all of the outdoor activities.