How to Choose the Right Camp to Work At
With thousands of camps across the U.S., picking the right one can feel overwhelming. The good news? It's hard to go wrong. Nearly every camp is a great place to spend a summer. But a little research up front can help you find the best fit. Here's what to think about.
What Type of Camp Do You Want?
Start with the basics. Are you looking for the classic cabins-and-campfires experience? Something faith-based, or specifically secular? Co-ed or single-gender? Part of a larger network (YMCA, Scouts, JCC) or independent? These filters can narrow your search quickly.
Ask in your interview: “Does this camp have any affiliations with larger organizations? What camps would you consider yourself most similar to?”
What's the Philosophy?
This matters more than you think. Camp work takes enough energy that you really want to believe in the mission. Some camps focus on skill-building, others on character development, others on pure fun. Some fill every minute with structured activities; others build in plenty of free time. These choices reflect what the camp believes about how kids should spend their time — and what your daily experience will feel like.
Ask in your interview: “When a camper finishes a session, what does success look like? What are the guiding principles behind your programming decisions?”
What Will Your Day Look Like?
Try to picture a typical day in the role you're applying for. Will you teach the same activity all summer, or create new ones every day? Will you work with the same group of kids (cabin-based) or rotate through different groups? Will you be responsible for a cabin overnight?
Ask in your interview: “Can you walk me through a typical day in this position? What are the top three responsibilities?”
What Happens After Dark?
A big chunk of camp happens at night. Do you sleep in a cabin with campers? Who responds when a kid gets sick at 2 AM? Is there time for staff to decompress and plan for the next day? Where exactly will you sleep, and how much privacy can you expect?
Ask in your interview: “What does nighttime look like for staff? When do staff find time to plan for the next day?”
What About Time Off?
You can't expect a lot of time off at camp, but it's a red flag when a camp hasn't thought about preventing burnout. Find out how long your breaks are, whether there are between-session days off, and what there is to do nearby. Some staff like to work at camps near relatives or family friends — having a bed and a washing machine nearby during your days off can be a lifesaver.
Ask in your interview: “How do staff normally spend their time off? How do successful staff balance their own wellbeing with the demands of camp?”
Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, most camps are wonderful places. If the people you talk to during the interview process feel warm, transparent, and excited about their work, that's usually a great sign. Go where you feel welcomed, and you'll likely have an incredible summer.