Camp America
What to Expect
Program Length
9-12 weeks
Age Requirement
Aged 18 by June 15th
Registration Deadline
March 31st
Remuneration
Earn up to $2,125 USD
Accommodation
Provided at camp
What is Camp America?
A summer of adventure
Camp America gives you the chance to escape the Australian winter and spend your summer in the USA. You’ll join American and international Counsellors at an authentic summer camp, helping kids and young people grow in confidence and skills across a huge range of activities.
It’s more than just a job – it’s about sharing your passions, making an impact, and being part of a community like no other. Every day at camp brings new challenges, new laughter, and memories you’ll carry long after summer ends.
Life at Camp
No day is the same
Every summer camp has its own rhythm and personality, but they all share one mission: to create an inclusive, fun, and life-changing environment for both kids and Counsellors. Camps can be private, Girl Scout, faith-based, day camps, overnight camps, or those supporting underserved communities or people with disabilities.
Your role depends on your skills and passions. From sports, drama, and art to lifeguarding, archery, or behind-the-scenes camp support, there’s a job for nearly everyone. Expect action-packed days full of activities, games, and songs – from sunrise to campfire. The energy, friendships, and magic of camp are what keep people coming back year after year.
Time Off & Travel
Explore the USA
Camp life is non-stop, but you’ll still get breaks to recharge and explore the local area. Most camps give staff evenings or days off to relax, reset, or try out nearby attractions.
When camp ends, your J-1 visa gives you up to 30 days to travel the USA your way. From national parks and lakes to iconic cities and beaches, the possibilities are endless. Best of all, you’ll be travelling with friends from around the world who shared your camp journey. And if you’re on a gap year, you can keep the adventure rolling with discounts on our Winter Work opportunities in Canada or Japan.
Camp America
What’s included:
Over 55 years’ experience! Est. 1969.
A guaranteed summer camp placement
Food and accommodation on camp
Group International Accident & Sickness Coverage
Up to $2150 paid by camp
24/7 support in the USA
Visa sponsorship & support
Up to 30 days travel before and after camp
Exclusive deals with Flight Centre
Savings if you combine with Winter Work Canada or Winter Work Japan
Have Questions?
Take a look at our frequently asked questions below or if you've still not found the answers you need, get in touch. We're always happy to chat to you.
Need help with something?
Frequently Asked Questions
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01How do I apply for Camp America?
All applications are completed online using our ‘My Camp America’ application system. For a step-by-step guide through the application process click here.
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02Do I have the skills to apply for Camp America?
When filling in your online application, you will be asked to select your skills from a list of over 150 skill areas that can be applied to various roles at camp. We encourage you to select as many skills as possible. After selecting your skills, you need to tell us about your experience and qualifications for each skill in as much detail as possible.
If you can teach children skills from a number of these areas, a camp might place you as an advanced skills specialist. Conversely, you could be placed as a general counsellor, yet it is important to note that there are limited positions available for general counsellors.
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03When should I be able to depart for the USA for summer camp?
Summer camps in the United States start between May 1st and June 25th and run through mid-to-late August. Each of the 50 U.S. states has a different schedule for their school year. So, some states will start their summer break in May, and some will do so in June. Hence, the specific start and end dates of a camp depend entirely on individual programs. You will be made aware of your camp’s unique start and end dates once a placement has been offered.
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04What happens if I don’t receive a successful placement?
If a placement is not found by the end of the placement season (mid-June), a full refund of the payments made to Camp America will be issued.
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05Can I choose which camp I go to?
Generally, a Camp Director will hire you based on your skills and the position they are looking to fill. However, if you do your research and find a camp you really want to go to, we can push your application to that camp. There are no guarantees they will have a place for you, but we always try!
AIFS Australia
Our Mission & Values
Our Values
Committed to care, respect and honesty
Our mission can only be achieved through exceptional support and care for our program participants to ensure their safety and wellbeing. We always provide honest, equitable and non-discriminatory treatment of program participants, our partners and employees, safeguarding teamwork and collaboration both within our organisation and with our partners.
Our Mission
Leading cultural exchange opportunities since 1964
The American Institute of Foreign Study (AIFS) provides the highest quality educational and cultural exchange programs to enrich the lives of young people throughout the world. Since 1964 we have been the leading provider of such opportunities, helping more than 1.8 million young people increase their global understanding in our diverse world.
Our Support
24/7 emergency support for all participants
Our support starts from the moment you apply. Our experienced team will help you through the application process and give you tips to make your application stand out so that you can find the summer camp job of a lifetime. Once you start your adventure, you’ll also have peace of mind knowing there’s 24/7 in-country support there for you if you need it.
