A guide to US summer camps
Looking to do something amazing with your summer? USA Summer Camp might be exactly what you’re looking for!
Every year, Camp Directors across America are searching for adventurous, friendly, and talented people from all over the world to join their teams. This is your chance to build your CV, meet new friends, and make unforgettable memories in the USA.
If you’re curious about how it all works, this guide to US Summer Camps will tell you everything you need to know!
Quick links
- What Are US Summer Camps?
- How Long Do Camps Last?
- What Jobs Can You Do at Camp?
- What Activities Can You Teach?
- Who Can Apply?
- How Much Does It Cost?
- How Do I Apply
- Ready to have the best summer of your life?
What Are US Summer Camps?
Each summer, thousands of children across the USA spend 9 to 12 weeks at camp – exploring the outdoors, trying new activities, and having the time of their lives.
From Soccer and Rock Climbing to Arts and Crafts and Watersports, camps are packed with fun, energetic sessions that help campers grow in confidence and learn new skills.
That’s where you come in!
We work with over 700 amazing camps across the USA, and they’re all looking for people like you to help make their summers incredible.
There are many different types of camps to choose from – Traditional Camps, Girl Scouts Camps, Specialist Camps, Underprivileged Camps, and more – so whatever your personality or experience, there’s a perfect camp out there for you.
How Long Do Camps Last?
Most US Summer Camps run between 9–12 weeks, with start dates typically falling between mid-May and June. Most staff are needed at camp until the end of August.
The best part? Once camp finishes, you’ll have up to 30 days to travel the USA. Beaches, road trips, cities, theme parks – it’s the ultimate reward for a summer well spent.
What Jobs Can You Do at Camp?
There are hundreds of different roles available, and they all fall into three main categories:
Camp Counsellors
As a Camp Counsellor, you’ll be living and working directly with campers. You’ll take them to activities, make sure they’re safe, and most importantly – make sure they’re having fun!
It’s the best kind of job: you get paid to play, connect, and grow alongside your campers.
Activity Specialists
Got a skill you love sharing? Whether it’s Photography, Basketball, Arts and Crafts, Horse Riding, or anything in between, you could spend your summer teaching what you love.
You’ll help campers find their passions and build confidence in your activity.
Click here to explore activity roles
Support Staff
Prefer to work behind the scenes? Support Staff roles keep camp running smoothly.
Whether you’re helping in the office, the kitchen, or working in maintenance or laundry, these roles are essential to the success of camp life.
What Activities Can You Teach?
As an Activity Specialist, you’ll take the lead on energetic, exciting sessions every day. Some examples of specialist roles include:
- Swimming Instructor – Teach swimming strokes like Backstroke, Freestyle, and Butterfly while keeping campers safe in the water.
- Performing Arts Specialist – Run sessions in acting, singing, dancing, and help campers shine in the big camp show.
- Sports Coach – Football (Soccer) is a big one, but camps also love coaches for Basketball, Tennis, and more. Lead training sessions and grow campers’ confidence on the field.
Whatever your skillset, there’s a camp that needs it.
Click here to see all available activities
Who Can Apply?
If you’re aged 18+ and live in the UK, Ireland, or Scandinavia, you can apply for a US Summer Camp job!
You don’t need to be a student to apply for Camp Counsellor or Activity Specialist roles. However, for Support Staff positions, you’ll need to be a full-time student currently enrolled at a University.
To work at a camp, you’ll also need a J-1 Visa, but don’t worry – we’ll walk you through the whole process and provide your visa sponsorship.
How Much Does It Cost?
We offer flexible pricing options: Visit our pricing page for further information.
We also offer the highest camp salary compared to other agencies – so you can have an amazing summer and get paid well for it!
How Do I Apply?
It couldn’t be easier.
Click here to start your application — it only takes 2 minutes.
Once we receive it, one of our friendly team members will give you a call to chat through the next steps.
Still got questions?
Send us a message on Instagram or give us a ring on 0121 411 9165.
Ready to have the best summer of your life?
Join USA Summer Camp today – we can’t wait to welcome you to the adventure.