Before you go, you’ll be buzzing with excitement – but also full of questions. Will I make friends? What’s it really like living at camp? Is it as life-changing as people say?

Short answer? Yes. But summer camp is also full of surprises – the kind that make you laugh, cry, and grow in ways you never expected. Here are ten things no one tells you about working at a summer camp… until now.

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1. Leaving camp is harder than leaving home

Homesickness might hit when you first arrive – that’s normal. But nothing prepares you for the goodbyes at the end of camp. The place you once felt nervous about will become your second home. You’ll go from counting down the days to camp to not wanting it to end. The final day, with tearful hugs and promises to stay in touch, hits differently.

Top Tip: Take photos, write down memories, and be fully present. You’ll want to remember every second.

2. Camp friends become lifelong besties

There’s something magical about camp friendships. Living, working, and adventuring together builds bonds that are hard to describe – and even harder to beat. These people see you at your best and your worst… and love you for it.

Top Tip: Don’t be afraid to open up. The connections you make here can last a lifetime (and give you couches to crash on around the world!).

3. It’s totally normal to forget about your phone

Between campfires, colour runs, lake swims, talent shows, and starlit chats, you won’t miss your phone one bit. It’s a digital detox you didn’t know you needed – and you’ll feel more connected to real life than ever.

Top Tip: Bring a disposable or instant camera. You’ll love capturing moments the old-school way.

4. American traditions are way more fun than you think

At first, the chants, cheers, face paint, and full-on Fourth of July parties might seem a little over-the-top. But give it a week and you’ll be painting your nails red, white, and blue and screaming your team song louder than anyone.

Top Tip: Pack something fun for Colour War or July 4th. Walmart cowboy hats are basically a rite of passage.

5. Sunsets are like nothing you’ve ever seen

Camp sunsets are something else. They’re the golden exhale after a full-on day. They’re quiet, humbling, peaceful – and totally Instagram-worthy.

Camp sunsets are something else. They’re the golden exhale after a full-on day. They’re quiet, humbling, peaceful – and totally Instagram-worthy.

Top Tip: Find your favourite sunset-watching spot early on. It’ll become your personal retreat.

6. Campfires beat club nights. every time.

S’mores, songs, stories, and those deep, late-night convos – nothing else compares. Campfire nights have a magic that sticks with you forever.

Top Tip: Learn a few acoustic classics before you go. Whether you sing or not, these nights are unforgettable.

7. Campers will change you

Yes, you’re there to make their summer amazing. But don’t be surprised when they change your life too. The energy, the honesty, the resilience – campers will teach you more than you ever imagined.

Top Tip: Write your campers a goodbye note on the last day. You’ll be surprised how emotional it is – for both of you.

8. Camp life has its own economy (bracelets, Jibbitz & cookies)

Friendship bracelets at an American summer camp

Friendship bracelets, Croc charms, snacks from care packages – they all carry a certain currency at camp. These little things mean a lot, and you’ll treasure the ones you’re given.

Top Tip: Bring a few UK treats with you. They’ll be a huge hit with staff and campers!

9. You might become a country music fan (against all odds)

Hate country music? Just wait. Whether it’s Luke Bryan or Kelsea Ballerini, camp tunes have a habit of becoming your entire summer soundtrack.

Top Tip: Start building your camp playlist now – trust us, you’ll want it for the flight home.

10. Camp stays with you

Once you’ve worked at a summer camp, you’ll carry it with you. On your CV. In your confidence. In the way you approach challenges and relationships. And in every “One time at camp…” story you tell for years to come.

Top Tip: Keep in touch with your camp friends, return next summer if you can, and share your story. It’ll inspire someone else to take the leap too.

Final thoughts

Summer camp isn’t just a job – it’s a journey. It’s laughter and chaos, sweat and songs, growth and gratitude. It’s a place where you’ll lose track of time and find a version of yourself you didn’t know was there.

So if you’re thinking of applying… don’t hesitate. Your future favourite memories are waiting.