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  • Types of Summer Camps in America: A Guide for Camp Counsellors

Posted on 22nd September 26 by Ben Chappel-Harney

If you’re thinking about working at a summer camp in America, you might be surprised by just how many different types of camps there are across the USA.

From traditional American summer camps to camps focused entirely on sports, performing arts or outdoor adventure, there are opportunities to suit a huge range of personalities, interests and skills.

Traditional Summer Camps

Traditional camps offer a mixture of activities rather than specialising in one particular area.

A typical day might include swimming, sports, arts and crafts, climbing, kayaking, campfires and evening games.

These camps are perfect if you want the classic American summer camp experience and plenty of variety throughout your summer.

Sports Camps

Sports camps focus heavily on coaching and developing particular sports.

Depending on the camp, this could include football, basketball, tennis, swimming, gymnastics, athletics and many more.

If you already play or coach a sport, your experience could help you secure an activity counsellor position.

Adventure and Outdoor Camps

Love being outdoors? Adventure camps can include activities such as hiking, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, ropes courses and wilderness trips.

These camps are particularly suited to people who enjoy outdoor activities and want an active summer.

Performing Arts and Creative Camps

Some summer camps specialise in areas such as theatre, dance, music, photography, filmmaking and arts and crafts.

If you have a creative skill or performance experience, you could spend your summer helping campers develop their own talents.

Camps for Campers with Additional Needs

There are also summer camps across America that provide specialist experiences for children and adults with disabilities or additional support needs.

Working at one of these camps can involve providing more individual support while helping campers take part in activities, make friends and enjoy everything camp has to offer.

Faith-Based Summer Camps

Some American summer camps are connected to religious organisations or communities.

The importance of faith varies considerably between camps, with some incorporating religious activities into everyday camp life and others operating much like a traditional summer camp.

Which Type of Summer Camp Is Right for You?

There isn’t one type of camp that is right for everyone.

Your interests, experience and the type of summer you want to have can all influence where you might be best suited.

With Gapforce Camp USA, you can explore opportunities at summer camps across the United States and find a placement that matches your skills and personality.

Ready to spend your summer working at a camp in America?

Apply for Gapforce Camp USA today. Click HERE to start your application.

Have a question? Email us at campusa@gapforce.org, or call us on (0)207 384 3028.

Let's talk

Call us on (UK) +44 (0)207 384 3028 (US) 1-917-305-5404 or fill in the form below and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.  

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