Beyond Campfires: The Perks of Working at Camp
Article submitted by Hannah Orendain, Interim Regional Campus Missioner - RGV
If you're considering spending your summer at a camp like Camp Capers, Mustang Island, or Duncan Park, you're in for more than just a seasonal job. Working at camp offers unique opportunities for growth, meaningful connections, and unforgettable experiences. Here are the top reasons why working at camp is so rewarding.
Make a Lasting Impact
At the heart of working at a summer camp is the opportunity to guide and mentor young campers. Whether leading Bible studies or guiding outdoor adventures, you help campers grow spiritually, emotionally, and socially. Many kids come looking for a deeper connection to their faith or a space to build confidence. As a counselor or staff member, you're not just helping them have fun – you're shaping their summer experience and, for some, impacting the trajectory of their faith journey. Knowing you’ve made a real difference in their lives is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the job, whether through a conversation around the campfire or by simply being a positive role model.
Develop Leadership Skills
In addition, working at camp is an immersive leadership experience. You’ll manage teams, resolve conflicts, and make quick decisions, all while creating a fun and safe environment for campers. As a staff member, you’re given responsibility that allows you to grow both personally and professionally. You’ll develop valuable skills like communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and collaboration – qualities that are essential in any career or life path. The fast-paced, dynamic environment at camp pushes you to become a more effective leader, and it’s an experience you can build on for years to come.
Build Lifelong Friendships
The camp community fosters deep connections among staff members. Living, working, and worshiping together for weeks creates lasting bonds with people who share your values and mission. You’re all there for the same reason: to serve, to grow, and to make a positive impact on the campers. This shared sense of purpose fosters a camaraderie that turns coworkers into lifelong friends. Many camp staff members find that their relationships at camp extend beyond the summer months, with a supportive network that continues to grow over time. It’s a unique environment where you’re truly invested in one another’s well-being.
Experience Personal and Spiritual Growth
Finally, camp is a place for spiritual renewal, not just for the campers but for staff too. Whether you're leading prayer services, participating in daily worship, or simply taking time for reflection, the rhythm of camp life provides a rich environment for spiritual renewal where you’re invited to deepen your connection to God and grow in your faith.
Working at summer camp is more than just a summer job – it’s an opportunity to impact lives, grow as a leader, build lifelong friendships, and experience spiritual renewal. Whether you're looking to make a difference, develop professionally, or deepen your faith, the rewards of working at camp will stay with you long after the summer ends.
To apply for Summer staff at all our diocesan camps visit dwtx.org/jobs.
