If you’re looking for temporary jobs in America for British students and U.K. citizens, you’ll find that there are a lot of options. Agricultural work, hospitality, and tourism are all popular choices, but there’s one opportunity that literally pays you to have the time of your life: summer camp! 

Through AmeriCamp, you can work as a camp counsellor at some of the best summer camps in the U.S. We partner with hundreds of camps to find you the perfect placement, and support you with your visa application, travel arrangements, medical insurance, and more. 

In this guide, we’ll explain why camp counselling is such an incredible job for international students and young adults. We’ll cover: 

1. Why the U.S. is such a popular destination for work and travel abroad programs
2. Why camp counselling is one of the best jobs in America for Brits
3. What to expect when you work at a U.S. summer camp
4. Why AmeriCamp is the best way to become a camp counsellor in the U.S. 
5. How to apply 
6. The travel opportunities that are available to you after camp

Keep reading to learn more, or start your AmeriCamp application here!

Jobs in America for British Students: An Overview

For decades, the United States has been a top destination for people seeking temporary or seasonal work abroad. It’s a huge, beautiful country with so many amazing pockets to explore, and a wealth of career growth opportunities just waiting for you. Whether you’re looking for short-term seasonal work, an internship, or a once-in-a-lifetime cultural exchange program, there are countless opportunities to fit different skill sets, schedules, and goals.

Why So Many Foreigners Want to Work in the U.S.

There’s no single reason people flock to the U.S. for work; it’s a combination of adventure, career opportunities, and cultural immersion:

• A chance to dial in those English skills: Working in the U.S. offers you the chance to improve your English skills while experiencing life from an American perspective. You’ll also meet people from around the world, making it a truly global experience.
• Endless travel opportunities: The U.S. is home to iconic cities, world-famous national parks, and unique cultural regions. Working here often comes with the opportunity to travel before, during, or after your job, and there’s a lot to explore!
• Giving that resume an important boost:  Many U.S. work programs emphasise teamwork, leadership, and adaptability. These skills are valuable no matter where your career takes you, and the fact that you picked them up overseas is even more impressive.
• Friends you’ll remember forever: International jobs in America often attract like-minded, adventurous people. You’ll fit in right away and leave with a network of friends and professional contacts from all over the world.

Popular Jobs for U.K. Citizens in the U.S.

Brits can work in a wide range of roles in America, depending on their visa type, experience, and interests. Some of the most common options include:

• Hospitality roles: Hotels, resorts, and restaurants often hire international staff for positions like front desk attendants, servers, or housekeepers, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Tourism and seasonal work: From ski resorts in Colorado to beach towns in Florida, seasonal jobs let workers experience America’s diverse geography while earning money and having fun.
• Internships and research programs: Some foreigners come on specialised visas to work for prestigious U.S. companies or academic institutions, gaining valuable industry experience.
• Nannying and au pair positions: Living with an American family while caring for children offers deep cultural immersion, the opportunity to gain valuable childcare experience, and a chance to form lasting bonds.
• Agricultural and farm work: Seasonal harvesting jobs are common in rural areas of the country, offering a unique view of American agricultural life and important hands-on experience. 
• Camp counselling: One of the most popular and rewarding options for young people, being a camp counsellor allows you to work directly with children in an outdoor setting, live in a close-knit community, and experience American summer traditions.

While each of these roles has its benefits, working at a USA summer camp is an incredible opportunity for those seeking a true cultural exchange, a supportive work environment, and an adventurous summer, all while earning a salary! 

Why Camp Counselling Is One of the Best Jobs in America for British Students

Not many jobs combine fun, cultural exchange, and personal growth quite like being a camp counsellor. Whether you’re looking for an adventure before university, during a gap year, or as part of a career break, camp counselling offers the perfect balance of work experience, travel, and community.

The Ultimate Summer Job Experience

A summer camp job in America is unlike any other job you’ll find in the U.S. Your “office” might be a canoe on a lake, a ropes course in the woods, or an arts-and-crafts hut buzzing with creativity. Each day brings new activities, from leading sports and teaching outdoor skills to helping campers put on a play or hosting themed evening events. 

The energy is high, the environment is supportive, and no two days are ever the same. Because camps run on a seasonal schedule (usually from early June to mid-August) you’ll have the chance to dive into the experience without long-term commitments. For many, it’s the highlight of their year and a summer they never forget.

Meaningful Cultural Exchange

At its heart, camp counselling is a cultural exchange. You’ll work alongside staff from across the United States and around the globe, making friends for life. Campers are curious about where you’re from, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to share your traditions, language, and stories, while also learning about American customs and holidays.

The bonds you form at camp often go beyond the summer. Many counsellors leave with an international circle of friends they keep in touch with for years, and some even come back for another season at camp! It’s an incredible way to broaden your worldview and gain insights into different cultures firsthand.

No Professional Experience Required

One of the biggest advantages of camp counselling is that you don’t need years of professional experience to get started. Camps are looking for enthusiastic, reliable, and adaptable people who can bring positive energy and engage with children. While specialised camp counsellor skills like sports coaching, swimming, drama, or music can help you land specific roles, they aren’t usually required for general counselling.

Plus, all the best summer camps in the USA provide orientations and on-site training before the campers arrive, covering everything from safety procedures to activity planning. That means as long as you’re willing to learn and be part of a team, you can thrive in this role.

Low Expenses Help Your Salary Go Further

Unlike many overseas jobs where you’re responsible for your own housing and meals, camp counselling typically includes room and board as part of the package. If you’re working at a traditional overnight camp, you’ll usually live on-site in a cabin, with three meals a day provided. This means you can save most of your camp counsellor salary, or spend it on travel after camp ends!

What to Expect When You Work at a U.S. Summer Camp

Working at a summer camp in America is a completely unique experience. It’s part job, part adventure, and part community living in an immersive, high-energy environment. Whether you’re guiding a group of campers through an art project, coaching a sports activity, or leading a nature hike, no two days are the same. While every camp has its own schedule and traditions, most share the same core elements that make the job so special.

Daily Life as a Camp Counsellor

From the moment the morning bugle or bell sounds, your day is in full swing. You’ll often start with a communal breakfast, followed by a day packed with activities. Depending on your role, you might be:

• Teaching campers how to paddle a canoe or hit a tennis ball
• Supervising arts and crafts sessions
• Organising team challenges or scavenger hunts
• Helping stage campfire skits or talent shows

Some camps have counsellors who spend their time at a specific activity station throughout the day, while different groups of campers cycle through. Other camps use counsellors to supervise a set group of campers, so you’ll move through different activities with them during the day. 

You’ll have short breaks (and lunch, of course!), but much of your time will be spent actively engaging with campers. In the evenings, there are group events like campfires, dances, or stargazing before bedtime routines kick in. It’s a busy schedule, but it’s worth every minute!

The Camp Environment

Most summer camps in America are set in beautiful, rural locations. You might find yourself by a peaceful (but usually freezing!) lake, in an ancient forest, or hidden away in a beautiful mountain range. This creates the perfect “unplugged” atmosphere where both staff and campers can connect with nature and each other without the constant distraction of screens. You’ll be surrounded by a close-knit community of counsellors and campers, which builds strong friendships and teamwork.

Skills You’ll Gain (That Look Amazing on a CV)

Camp counselling is fun, but it’s also a serious boost to your personal and professional development. By the end of the summer, you’ll have hands-on experience in:

• Leadership: Managing groups, leading activities, and motivating young people
• Teamwork: Collaborating with camp staff from different cultures and backgrounds
• Problem-Solving: Thinking quickly to resolve issues, from bad weather to homesickness
• Communication: Explaining instructions clearly, giving feedback, and listening effectively
• Adaptability: Adjusting plans when things change unexpectedly

These skills are highly valued by employers and can make your CV stand out, whether you’re applying for jobs in education, hospitality, tourism, or pretty much any other field.

Why AmeriCamp Is the Best Way to Become a Camp Counsellor in the U.S.

While there are several organisations that help connect international workers with American summer camp jobs, we have built a reputation for offering one of the most rewarding, supportive, and affordable programs out there. From the moment you apply to the day you return home, you’ll have a dedicated team ensuring your summer is as seamless and unforgettable as possible.

Who We Are and What We Offer

AmeriCamp is a cultural exchange program that helps people from all over the world secure summer camp jobs abroad in the United States. We handle much of the complex admin (think visa sponsorship, insurance, and camp placement) so you can focus on the fun part: preparing for your adventure.

Here’s what we provide:

• Camp placement at one of our trusted partner camps
• J-1 camp counsellor visa sponsorship and guidance throughout the application process
• Medical insurance for the duration of your time in the U.S.
• Pre-departure orientation to get you camp-ready
• 24/7 in-country support for peace of mind once you arrive

Plus, we guarantee you a salary of at least $2,250 for your time at camp!

The Types of Camps We Partner With

AmeriCamp works with an impressive range of camps across the U.S., so there’s truly something for everyone. Some of the main types include:

• Traditional summer camps: Classic, overnight, all-around camps offering sports, arts, outdoor skills, and general activities for children of various ages, usually lasting several weeks.
• Special needs camps: Special needs camps are specifically designed to provide an inclusive and supportive environment for campers with physical or developmental disabilities or additional needs.
• Faith-based camps: Jewish camps, Christian camps, and others with a religious foundation, often combining faith-based activities with the usual summer camp fun.
• Day camps: Camps where campers return home at the end of each day, rather than staying overnight. Camp counsellors typically stay near the camp’s facilities, in designated camp housing.
• Single-gender camps: These can be traditional summer camps, faith-based camps, or day camps. Designed for one gender only, they aim to give campers a more specialised, tailored experience.

By working with such a diverse range of camps, it’s a lot easier for us to pair you with a summer camp that suits your interests, values, and skills. 

How to Apply to Be a Camp Counsellor with AmeriCamp

Applying to work at a U.S. summer camp through AmeriCamp is a straightforward process designed to get you from “thinking about it” to “boarding your flight” as smoothly as possible. Whether you’re a first-time traveller or a seasoned adventurer, we’ll guide you through every step, from checking your eligibility to securing your camp placement and visa.

Eligibility Requirements

To join our program, you don’t need years of experience or a perfect camp counsellor resume, just the right attitude and a willingness to learn. In general, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old by the time camp begins.
• English skills: A good level of conversational English is important for communicating with campers and staff.
• Background: A clean criminal record is required to work with children.
• Skills & interests: While not essential, experience in sports, arts, music, outdoor activities, or youth work can strengthen your application.
• Availability: You must be available to work for the full camp season (usually 8–10 weeks from June to August).

Step-by-Step Application Process

We keep the process simple, so you can focus on preparing for the adventure ahead:

1. Complete your online application: Fill in your personal details, skills, information on why you want to be a camp counsellor, and availability.
2. Attend a friendly interview: This is an informal chat with an AmeriCamp team member to learn more about you, your strengths, and what type of camp might suit you best. It’s also a great chance to ask any questions you have about the program.
3. Interview with camp directors: We’ll circulate your application among our camp partners, and they’ll reach out if it looks like your skills, experience, and interests could be a good fit. You’ll interview with the camp director, who’ll ask you some common camp counsellor interview questions.
4. Get matched with a camp: If the camp director thinks you’d be a good fit, they’ll send you an offer. Congratulations, you’re one step closer to working at a USA summer camp! 
5. Secure your visa: Once you have an offer from a camp, we’ll guide you through the J-1 visa process. We’ll make sure you have all the correct documentation, help you navigate your interview, and answer your questions along the way.
6. Attend our pre-departure orientation: Before you go, you’ll attend a session to prepare you for camp life and travel in the U.S. You’ll get to meet other AmeriCamp counsellors who are also preparing for the journey!
7. Pack Your Bags and Fly to the U.S.: Time for your American summer to begin! We’ll make sure your medical insurance is in place and you have AmeriCamp’s 24/7 number for emergencies.

When to Apply (and Why Timing Matters)

The earlier you apply, the better your chances of getting placed at your ideal camp. Applications typically open in the autumn for the following summer, and spots start filling quickly, especially for camps looking for applicants with niche camp counsellor resume skills like lifeguarding or performing arts.

If you’re thinking about it now, start your application now! The sooner you begin, the smoother and more exciting your journey to camp will be.

After Camp: Travel Opportunities Across the U.S.

One of the most exciting parts of counselling at the best camps in America is that your adventure doesn’t have to end when camp does. With the J-1 visa, you’ll have up to 30 days after your camp contract ends to travel within the United States. 

Making the Most of Your 30-Day Travel Period

This “grace period” is perfect for ticking off the destinations you’ve been dreaming about during your camp experience. Many counsellors team up with fellow staff members to travel together, sharing costs and making memories along the way. If you’d prefer, you can always set out solo for a personal adventure!

Popular Post-Camp Destinations

If you’re looking for some travel inspiration, here are some of the most popular destinations to visit in the U.S. after your summer adventure camp wraps up:

• New York City, New York: See Times Square, catch a Broadway show, and stroll through Central Park.
• Los Angeles, California: Visit Hollywood, relax on Venice Beach, and explore the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods.
• Las Vegas & The Grand Canyon: Combine the entertainment capital of the world with one of the planet’s most stunning natural wonders.
• Miami, Florida: Enjoy sandy beaches, colourful Art Deco buildings, and lively nightlife.
• San Francisco, California: Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, explore Fisherman’s Wharf, and visit nearby wine country.
• National Parks: From Yellowstone to Yosemite, America’s parks offer unforgettable hiking, camping, and wildlife experiences.

Tips for Planning Your Post-Camp Trip

• Budget early: Try to save most of your camp counsellor salary for travel so you can make the most of your time.
• Coordinate with others: Travelling with other camp counsellors in America can make your journey more fun and cost-effective.
• Book in advance: Popular destinations can get busy in late summer, so lock in accommodation and transportation ahead of time.
• Mix city and nature: The U.S. really has the best of both worlds when it comes to iconic cities and stunning scenery. Make sure you combine the two!

Post-camp travel is the cherry on top of your AmeriCamp experience. After weeks of working hard and building strong friendships at one of the best summer camps in the U.S., you’ll have the freedom to explore, relax, and reflect on a summer well spent.

Final Thoughts: Why Camp Counselling Is the Ultimate Job in America for British Students

Camp counselling is an incredible adventure that blends work, travel, cultural exchange, and personal growth into one unforgettable summer. You’ll spend your days outdoors, lead fun activities, make a lasting difference in children’s lives, and form friendships with people from all over the world.

Through AmeriCamp, the journey becomes even more rewarding. With our unmatched support and extensive camp network, we make it simple for you to secure a placement that fits your skills, personality, and sense of adventure. You’ll not only have a job waiting for you in the U.S., but also a community ready to welcome you from the moment you apply.

So if you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone, experience authentic American culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime, now’s the time. Apply with AmeriCamp today and make your dream American summer a reality!