Watersports at Summer Camp
Spend your summer soaking up the sun at the lake or pool! Whether you’re lifeguarding, teaching swimming, or cruising the water in a sailboat or powerboat, watersports at camp offer some of the most exciting, rewarding roles around. You’ll help keep campers safe, teach valuable skills, and enjoy one of the best summer experiences imaginable.
From paddleboards and inflatables to docks and diving boards
– this is your chance to live the lakeside dream.
What’s It Like Working in Watersports at Camp?
Most summer camps are built around a central lake or have dedicated pool facilities. That means you’ll be part of a key team that ensures everyone stays safe and has fun while swimming, splashing, sailing, or skiing. Watersports jobs can include lifeguarding, instructing, boat driving, or all of the above!
You’ll spend most of your day out in the sun, helping campers build water confidence and water-based skills. And while safety is always the top priority, there’s still plenty of fun to be had – think giant inflatables, water basketball, and epic splashdowns.
When you’re not on the water, you’ll also be a fully involved camp counsellor – supporting your bunk, taking part in evening events, and enjoying the full camp experience.
Key Watersports Roles
While we’ve showcased just a handful of Watersport Counsellor roles here, there are countless more opportunities across an exciting range of activities. Whether it’s Boating, Canoeing, Kayaking, Wakeboarding, Waterskiing, Jet-Skiing, Paddle Boarding, Surfing, Tubing, Fishing, or Whitewater Rafting – whatever your watersport, there’s a summer camp looking for your skills. Any experience or qualifications in water-based instruction are a big advantage, especially with safety being such a top priority in and around the water.
Lifeguard
If you’re confident in the water and can stay calm under pressure, lifeguarding is one of the most important and rewarding jobs at camp.
What Skills Do You Need?
- Supervise swimming sessions at lakes or pools
- Ensure camper safety, enforce water rules
- Respond to emergencies and perform rescues if needed
- Help with daily checks, safety briefings, and equipment prep
What You’ll Need:
- A valid Lifeguard qualification (American Red Cross or NPLQ) is desirable but not essential
- Confidence around water
- Previous experience helpful, but not always required
- First Aid or CPR certification is a bonus
Why You’ll Love It:
- Spend your summer outdoors in the sun
- Be part of an essential safety team
- Take regular swim breaks and enjoy all the water-based action
- Earn a new qualification with the American Red Cross to add to your CV
Swimming Instructor
Love teaching? Turn your poolside knowledge into a summer full of fun, learning, and confidence-building.
What Skills Do You Need?
- Teach swimming to campers of all ages and skill levels
- Lead group and one-on-one sessions
- Promote water safety and stroke development
- Monitor camper progress and encourage improvement
Qualifications That Help
- ASA Level 1 or 2, STA Swim Teaching Qualification
- NPLQ, RLSS, or American Red Cross Cert
- Experience working with children
- Previous leisure centre or coaching experience
What You’ll Get Out of It
- Specialist Counsellor role with a minimum $2,300 salary
- Free food and accommodation included
- Add international swim coaching to your CV
- Make a real difference teaching an essential life skill
Sailing & Motorboat Driving
If you’ve got experience on the water – from dinghies to powerboats – then sailing and boat driving at camp is an unforgettable way to spend your summer.
What You’ll Do:
- Lead sailing sessions on the lake
- Drive motorboats for tubing, waterskiing, kneeboarding and more
- Maintain boats and equipment, help fit lifejackets, lead safety demos
- Teach basic sailing skills and promote confidence on the water
Recommended Qualifications:
- RYA Level 2 (Dinghy, Multihull, Keelboats)
- RYA Powerboat Level 2
- Other boating or water-based qualifications
- Strong, demonstrable on-water experience (even without formal quals)
Why It’s Epic:
- Spend your day out on the lake in the fresh air
- Cruise around in motorboats, tow inflatables, or teach campers to sail
- Help create unforgettable summer memories
- Build outdoor and leadership skills in a unique waterside setting
Why Choose a Watersports Role at
Summer Camp?
- Soak up the sunshine
- Work outdoors every day
- Build valuable life and safety skills
- Be part of one of the most exciting teams at camp
- Make a real impact while having the time of your life
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the role. Lifeguards and Swim Instructors usually require certifications, while Sailing and Boat Driving roles value both qualifications and experience. Some camps may offer training if you’re a strong swimmer or sailor.
Most watersports roles are Specialist or Advanced Skill positions, with minimum salaries from $2,300. Plus, your food and accommodation are covered!
Absolutely! Many staff help across different areas – especially if you’re qualified or experienced in more than one water-based skill.
You’ll lead or supervise water sessions, join camp events, enjoy free periods to relax or explore, and help out with cabin or mealtime duties too.
Start your application and select Watersports as your top skill area. Highlight your qualifications, experience, and confidence in and around the water – and we’ll match you with the perfect camp.
We’re here to help!
Speak with one of our experts
Talk to us nowGot questions? No stress – just give us a call! We’re here to help, no awkward chats, just friendly advice from people who’ve been to camp and know the deal.
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Turn your love for adventure into an unforgettable summer job.
Apply now and get ready to coach in the USA!