Ever dreamed of spending your summer under the sun, surrounded by pine trees, lakes, campfires, and new friends from all over the world? If so, working as a camp counsellor in the USA might be your perfect adventure, and AmeriCamp Spain has been helping people like you make it happen for over a decade!
Before we dive in, let’s clear up a little myth that has popped up recently: AmeriCamp Spain has not changed its name, disappeared, or merged into a different organisation. We’re still the original AmeriCamp Spain; same team, same mission, same passion for giving you the best summer of your life.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about becoming a camp counsellor and how AmeriCamp Spain supports you at every step.
Introduction to AmeriCamp Spain
As one of Spain’s most experienced and trusted cultural exchange organisations, we’ve spent more than a decade sending participants to the best summer camps in the U.S. Below, you’ll get to know who we are, what makes our experience so unique, and why thousands of people continue choosing AmeriCamp Spain each year.
Who We Are
AmeriCamp Spain is a dedicated cultural exchange organisation that helps you secure paid summer camp counsellor positions across the United States. Our mission is simple: to offer an affordable, supportive, and unforgettable summer experience that combines meaningful work, personal growth, and travel opportunities.
We’ve worked at camps ourselves, understand the excitement (and nerves!) of heading overseas, and genuinely love helping applicants find the right placement. From your first question to your return flight home, our staff is here to support you every step of the way.
Over a Decade of Authentic AmeriCamp Spain Experience
AmeriCamp Spain has been operating under the same name, mission, and leadership for over ten years. During that time, we’ve built strong partnerships with the best camps in America, earned a reputation for participant-focused support, and helped thousands of counsellors experience the magic of American summer camp.
Our legacy is built on trust, consistency, and years of positive experiences from participants who return home with stories, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime.
Why Thousands Choose AmeriCamp Spain Every Year
Each year, thousands of applicants choose AmeriCamp Spain for one big reason: we make the process fun, smooth, and genuinely supportive. But there’s more:
- Extensive camp network: We work with a huge range of summer camps across the U.S., increasing your chances of finding the perfect fit.
- Exceptional support: From perfecting your application to prepping for your interview and navigating the J-1 visa process, our team is always by your side.
- Affordable pricing: We believe cultural exchange should be accessible, and our programs are designed to keep costs low while offering strong value.
- Real experience: Our staff includes past camp counsellors who know exactly what camp life is like and can share tips, tricks, and insider knowledge.
- Unforgettable adventures: Our participants don’t just work at camp; they explore cities, travel coast-to-coast, and create memories that inspire them long after summer ends.
People trust AmeriCamp Spain because we care, not just about your placement, but about your entire journey!
What Is a Camp Counsellor Job in the USA?
Working as a camp counsellor in the USA is one of the most exciting and meaningful ways to spend your summer. It’s a unique mix of responsibility, adventure, teamwork, and pure fun. Below, we break down what the job really involves, what camps are looking for in strong applicants, and the different types of camps you may be placed at.
The Role Explained
A camp counsellor is part mentor, part activity leader, part problem-solver, and part big sibling. Your main job? Making sure your campers have the safest, happiest, most inspiring summer possible.
Daily responsibilities may include:
- Supervising and supporting a group of children or teens
- Leading activities such as sports, arts, drama, outdoor skills, or water sports
- Helping create a positive, inclusive cabin environment
- Participating in all the fun, including campfires, talent shows, themed days, and more
- Assisting with mealtimes, bedtime routines, and transitions between activities
- Setting a great example for campers from the moment they wake up to lights-out
You won’t be sitting behind a desk; you’ll be outside, engaged, active, and fully part of camp life. If you love working with kids, enjoy teamwork, and have a sense of adventure, this is the role for you.
What Camps Are Looking For in Applicants
You don’t need to be a superstar athlete or a master of ten different hobbies to succeed at camp. Camps mainly look for applicants who are enthusiastic, responsible, and ready to get stuck in.
Most camps look for the following camp counsellor qualities:
- Positive attitude: Energy and enthusiasm go a long way.
- Love working with kids: Experience helps, but genuine interest matters most.
- Teamwork: Counsellors work closely with staff from around the world.
- Flexibility: Camp life is fast-paced and full of surprises, so adaptability is key.
- English communication skills: You don’t need to be fluent, but you should be comfortable speaking and understanding English.
- Special skills or hobbies (optional but helpful): Sports, swimming, drama, music, climbing, arts and crafts, first aid, dance, or lifeguarding can all make your application stronger.
The most important thing is showing that you’re reliable, kind, patient, and excited to be part of a camp community.
Types of Camps You Can Work At
With our large, diverse network, you have the chance to be placed at a summer camp that matches your personality and skills.
We partner with:
- Traditional overnight camps: The classic American summer camp experience with cabins, lakes, campfires, and days packed with activities. These camps typically run for 4–8 weeks and focus on teamwork, outdoor adventures, and developing confidence and independence.
- Day camps: These camps run during the day only. You work with campers on activities, but everyone goes home in the evening (and counsellors have camp accommodation nearby). These are a great option if you prefer structured hours.
- Special needs camps: These camps serve children or adults with physical, developmental, or emotional needs. Roles are incredibly rewarding, and camps provide full training and support. These camps highly value applicants who are patient, compassionate, and eager to learn.
- Religion-affiliated camps: Some camps are connected to Christian, Jewish, or other faith traditions. Counsellors usually don’t need to be religious themselves, but should be respectful of the camp’s culture and values.
- Specialist camps: These camps focus on specific interests like sports, performing arts, adventure activities, horseback riding, STEM, and more. If you have strong skills in a particular area, this type of camp might be a perfect match.
Each camp type offers its own style and energy, but all share one thing in common: they create a supportive, magical environment where campers (and counsellors!) can grow and have fun.
Why Work at a Summer Camp in the USA?
Working at a summer camp in the United States is an experience that shapes you, challenges you, and stays with you long after the summer ends. Let’s break down the biggest reasons why thousands of young people choose to work at a USA summer camp each year.
Cultural Exchange at Its Best
There’s no better way to experience American culture than by living and working at a summer camp. You’ll have the opportunity to:
- Meet staff from all over the world
- Learn about American traditions like 4th of July celebrations
- Discover the best of camp life, including s’mores, colour wars, and campfires
- Share your own culture with campers and fellow counsellors
- Gain firsthand insight into an iconic part of American childhood
The cultural exchange goes both ways. You’ll discover new perspectives, broaden your worldview, and form friendships that cross borders and last a lifetime.
Personal and Professional Growth
Camp pushes you in the best possible way. You’ll gain the skills of a camp counsellor, and employers love them! During your summer, you’ll develop:
- Leadership and teamwork skills from guiding campers and collaborating with staff
- Communication skills as you manage different personalities and situations
- Problem-solving abilities from handling unexpected challenges
- Adaptability and resilience in a fun, fast-paced environment
- Confidence from taking responsibility and stepping into a mentor role
Many participants return home feeling more mature, independent, and sure of themselves.
Travel Opportunities After Camp
One of the biggest perks of the J-1 camp counsellor visa is the chance to travel the USA. Thanks to your visa’s grace period, you’ll have 30 days after camp to explore the country.
Popular counsellor travel destinations include:
- New York City
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
- Miami
- Chicago
- Las Vegas
- National parks like Yosemite, Zion, or the Grand Canyon
Many participants travel with new friends they met at camp, turning the experience into a full American summer adventure.
Earn Money While Having the Summer of a Lifetime
While camp is first and foremost a cultural exchange program, you do get paid for your work. Counsellors receive pocket money (stipend) that depends on age, experience, and camp type. But the major financial benefit is that your food and accommodation are included, so you can save most of what you earn.
Here’s what makes it such a great value:
- No rent or bills all summer
- Three meals a day included
- Low daily expenses
- Time after camp to use your savings for travel
How AmeriCamp Spain Helps You Work in the USA
With more than a decade of experience and a passionate team that genuinely cares about your journey, we make the entire process smooth, clear, and enjoyable. Below is a closer look at how we support you throughout the entire program.
A Trusted Program With 10+ Years of Experience
For over a decade, we’ve been helping people across Spain experience the magic of American summer camps. Our long history means we understand the process inside and out, from the best way to present your skills to camps, to what counsellors really need once they arrive in the USA.
Our reputation is built on years of successful placements, strong relationships with camps, and genuine care for every participant who joins our program. When you apply with AmeriCamp Spain, you’re joining a legacy of trust, quality, and unforgettable summers.
Placement With the Best Camps in America
AmeriCamp Spain partners with an extensive network of the best summer camps in the U.S. Thanks to these strong relationships, your application is seen by a wide range of directors looking for enthusiastic international staff.
What makes our placements stand out:
- Camps are vetted for safety, quality, and cultural exchange focus
- You’re matched with a camp that suits your personality, skills, and preferences
- Many camps return year after year, specifically wanting counsellors from AmeriCamp Spain
Our goal is to ensure you get placed somewhere you will thrive!
J-1 Visa Support and Guidance
Working as a camp counsellor in the USA requires a J-1 visa, which can seem complicated if you’re new to the process. But don’t worry; we guide you through it step-by-step, by:
- Explaining visa requirements in simple, clear terms
- Preparing your required documents
- Coordinating with official U.S. visa sponsors
- Helping you schedule your embassy appointment
- Preparing you for your visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Spain
- Understanding your visa conditions, dates, and travel period
Our team has helped thousands of participants successfully obtain their visas, and we’re here to make sure you feel confident and prepared.
Step-by-Step Support Throughout the Journey
From the moment you apply to be a camp counsellor in America, you’re never alone. We walk you through each stage of the process, from improving your application to getting ready for camp.
Our support includes:
- Help with building the strongest application possible
- Interview tips, mock questions, and confidence-building guidance
- Updates, communication help, and placement advice during the matching process
- Advice on what to pack, what to expect, and how to prepare
- Travel tips for flights, insurance, and arrival logistics
We’re with you before camp, during camp, and even after your placement ends!
Transparent Pricing and Inclusions
We believe cultural exchange should be accessible, which is why AmeriCamp Spain keeps pricing clear and straightforward. No hidden fees, no confusing add-ons—just honest information from the start.
Your program fee includes:
- Application processing and matching
- Placement at a vetted U.S. summer camp
- Visa sponsorship coordination
- Pre-departure orientation
- Support throughout the entire journey
- Access to our team for questions, guidance, and emergency help
We also explain what costs you’ll need to cover (such as flights or embassy fees) so you can plan your budget with confidence.
On-the-Ground and Virtual Support
Whether you’re preparing from home or already in the USA, our support doesn’t stop. You’ll have access to:
- Local Spain-based staff who understand your needs and language
- 24/7 emergency support once you’re in the USA
- Virtual communication through email, phone, and messaging
- Guidance for anything unexpected, from travel delays to homesickness to camp questions
We’re here to help you have a safe, successful, and unforgettable summer camp job in America!
Eligibility Requirements for Becoming a Camp Counsellor
Before you pack your bags, it’s important to make sure you meet the basic requirements. Here are the key eligibility requirements you’ll need to meet to participate in the AmeriCamp Spain program.
Age Requirements
We require applicants to be 18 years old by June 1st of the year they’re intending to work at camp. You can still apply for AmeriCamp Spain when you’re 17 years old, as long as your birthday is before June 1st. Some specialist roles (like lifeguarding or high-level coaching) may prefer older applicants, but 18 is the minimum for the J-1 camp counsellor visa.
English Language Level
You don’t need perfect English, but you do need to communicate comfortably. Camps expect counsellors to:
- Understand and give instructions
- Talk to campers and staff
- Manage daily routines and safety procedures
A conversational level is usually enough, and we can help you prepare for your interview if you’re unsure.
Skills, Certifications, or Experience That Help
While not required, certain skills can make your application more competitive. Camps love applicants who can lead or assist with specific activities, including:
- Sports (football, tennis, basketball, etc.)
- Swimming and lifeguarding
- Performing arts (dance, drama, music)
- Outdoor skills (climbing, archery, hiking)
- Arts and crafts
- STEM activities
- First aid or CPR
Even informal childcare experience, like babysitting, tutoring, or coaching younger siblings, is valuable and should be included on your camp counsellor resume!
Background Check and Other Documentation
Because you’ll be working with children, you must pass standard safety and security checks. This includes:
- A clean criminal background check
- Medical form or basic health clearance
- Valid passport
- J-1 visa eligibility (we guide you through this)
These requirements ensure a safe environment for both staff and campers.
How to Apply Through AmeriCamp Spain
With AmeriCamp Spain, the application process is designed to be simple, supportive, and stress-free. Basically, the application process looks like this:
- Complete your online application
- Meet with the AmeriCamp Spain team
- Interview with a camp director
- Secure your J-1 visa
- Prepare for your adventure!
Here’s how the journey works and what you can expect along the way.
Complete Your Application
Your first step is to submit your online application. This includes:
- Basic personal details
- Your experience and skills
- Activity preferences
- A short personal video introduction
- References
The goal of your application is to show camps who you are, what you enjoy, and why you’d be a great counsellor. Remember to highlight any hobbies, sports, childcare experience, or leadership roles you’ve had.
Meet With Our Team
Once your application is in, you’ll meet virtually with someone from the AmeriCamp Spain team for a quick, informal video call. During this meeting, we will:
- Learn more about your personality and interests
- Help you identify your strengths
- Give you tips to strengthen your profile
- Ensure you’re confident and ready for camp placement
It’s also a great chance for you to ask us any questions you have about the program, being a camp counsellor, or anything else AmeriCamp-related!
Camp Interview and Job Offer
Next, we’ll share your application with American camp directors. When a camp is interested, they’ll invite you to a short interview. During the interview, expect to answer common camp counsellor interview questions and talk about:
- Your skills and hobbies
- Why you want to work at camp
- Your experience with kids (formal or informal)
- What you hope to contribute
- Your comfort level with certain roles or age groups
If the camp feels you’re a good fit, they’ll offer you a position and you’ll be officially hired for the summer!
Preparing for Your J-1 Visa
After you receive your camp placement, it’s time to start the J-1 visa process. This may sound intimidating, but AmeriCamp Spain makes it manageable and clear. We help you with:
- Understanding required documents
- Completing your DS-160 form
- Scheduling your U.S. embassy appointment
- Knowing what to bring to the interview
- Preparing for common embassy questions
- Reviewing your visa dates and conditions
Once approved, you’ll receive your passport with your J-1 visa and your DS-2019 form, which is your official document for working at camp.
Pre-Departure Preparation
With your visa approved, it’s time to get ready for the adventure! We’ll help you with:
- Booking flights
- Travel insurance
- Packing essentials (clothes, gear, documents)
- Money tips and budgeting
- Communication tools for staying in touch
- What to expect when you arrive
- Cultural preparation and camp etiquette
We want you to feel confident, prepared, and excited before leaving for the USA.
Start Your AmeriCamp Spain Journey Today!
Working at a summer camp in the USA is an adventure that builds confidence, expands your worldview, strengthens your English, and connects you with friends from around the globe. With AmeriCamp Spain, you arrive fully supported, prepared, and ready to make memories you’ll talk about for years.
The best summer of your life is waiting for you! Apply with AmeriCamp Spain today and start your journey to the USA with confidence.
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