Jobs at American Summer Camps for British University Students

What Are the Best Jobs at American Summer Camps for British Students?

At Wild Packs, we’ve spent 15+ years helping British university students turn their summers – and USA gap years – into unforgettable adventures. Whether you want to escape the lecture hall or have an epic summer abroad, we offer roles across 300+ ACA-accredited USA camps.

From football coaching jobs abroad to horse summer camp jobs, our roles are as diverse as the students we support. We offer high salaries, no registration fees and include everything from food and accommodation to full visa support and medical insurance.

Throughout this blog, we’ll explore: 

  • The most popular summer camp jobs in America for UK citizens
  • Why working at an American summer camp is perfect for British students
  • How Wild Packs makes the USA gap year process simple, affordable & unforgettable


Ready to start your summer 2027 adventure? Let’s dive in! 

A signpost stating ‘camp counselor wanted’.

Earn the Highest Industry Salary with Wild Packs!
Start your American summer camp job with confidence – Wild Packs guarantees a minimum salary of $2,400, plus FREE food, accommodation & training. More pay, less stress & an unforgettable USA gap year experience.
Apply today for summer camps 2027!

Wild Packs Summer Camps: Exciting Summer Camp Jobs in America

Experience Classic Summer Camp Traditions

A group of people roasting marshmallows over a campfire.

From campfire sing-alongs and themed dress-up days to lakeside swims, American summer camps for British students offer something totally unique.

At Wild Packs, we partner exclusively with American Camp Association (ACA) accredited camps, guaranteeing a safe, structured and fun environment to spend your summer in.

It’s the kind of summer job that doesn’t feel like work – surrounded by nature, building real connections and soaking up classic summer camp traditions that have been part of American culture for decades.

Here are just a few of the unforgettable traditions you’ll experience:

  • Evening campfires complete with s’mores & songs under the stars
  • Colour wars & talent shows that bring the whole camp together
  • Cabin competitions & team spirit that spark lifelong friendships
  • Theme days & dress-up nights that keep every day exciting
  • Waterfront fun like canoeing, paddleboarding & lake jumps

Discover more thrilling USA summer camp traditions on our previous blog, 5 Most Popular American Summer Camp Traditions! 

Take A Gap Year in the USA That Stands Out

With 52% of Brits considering leaving the UK to seek better work opportunities abroad, taking a USA gap year is more than just a travel dream – it’s a smart career move. Working at an American summer camp through Wild Packs is a standout way to kick off your adventure. 

You’ll build valuable skills like leadership, adaptability and teamwork – all while earning a minimum of $2,400 and having your food, accommodation and training fully covered. Plus, thanks to the J-1 Visa, you’ll get 30 extra days after camp ends to travel the States! 

It’s not just about filling time between uni years. This is a meaningful, enriching way to start your journey into the wider world – with memories, friends, and work experience that last far beyond summer.

For more information on the J-1 visa application process, visit our previous blog, J1 Visas: Everything You Need to Know!

Discover the Best Summer Jobs in America for UK Citizens

At Wild Packs, we know that everyone’s skills and interests are different – that’s why we work with 300+ American summer camps for British applicants to help you find the perfect fit. 

Whether you’re passionate about performing arts, obsessed with football or dream of spending your summer on horseback, we offer a huge range of summer camp jobs that match your interests, skills and future goals.

Cabin Staff Roles

Great for all-rounders, this role is an essential part of every American summer camp. As cabin staff, you’ll be the heart and soul of camp life – guiding your campers through their daily routines, helping with activities and offering encouragement every step of the way.

You’ll build confidence, teach essential life skills and create unforgettable memories for your campers (and yourself!). Check out what our cabin staff roles have to offer: 

General Camp Counsellor

Support Roles

Speciality Roles

  • If you’re an all-rounder who loves working with kids, this is the role for you. Live alongside campers, guide them in activities & build their confidence.
  • No experience necessary – just energy, empathy & a willingness to get stuck in!
  • A top choice for anyone seeking summer jobs in America for UK students.
  • From kitchen assistants to maintenance crew, support roles keep camp running smoothly.
  • These roles operate under a different visa. Email us for more info.
  • These positions are ideal for students who want to experience summer camp traditions without directly supervising campers.
  • Includes roles at wildlife camps, adventure programs or working with children who have special needs.
  • A rewarding role, perfect for students seeking careers in healthcare, social,  education or youth work.
  • A great option for a gap year in America that sets your CV apart.

For more information on our wide range of summer camp counsellor roles, visit our previous blog, visit our Camp Roles page! 

Activity Roles at Summer Camps in the USA

Looking for summer camp jobs in America for UK students that match your passions and talents? We offer an exciting range of activity counsellor roles, perfect for British students who want to turn a hobby into a once-in-a-lifetime experience during their gap year in the USA.

Whether you’re into sports, performing arts, adventure or animals, there’s a role for you have to offer: 

Horse Summer Camp Jobs

Football Coaching Jobs Abroad

Watersports Instructors

  • Love horses? Spend your summer teaching campers how to ride, groom & care for ponies at dedicated equestrian camps.
  • Whether you’ve got minimal experience or advanced skills in dressage & jumping, there’s a place for you.
  • An amazing opportunity for equine enthusiasts seeking a gap year in America.
  • Got a passion for the pitch? Help young campers develop their skills in football (soccer!), while learning about American sports culture. 
  • You don’t always need formal coaching qualifications -just enthusiasm & experience.
  • A great pick for sporty students looking for football coaching jobs abroad.
  • From kayaking to windsurfing, you’ll spend your days by the lake teaching water-based activities.
  • Many camps offer training, so if you’re a confident swimmer, this could be your dream summer job.
  • One of the most popular roles at East Coast summer camps.

Adventure & Outdoor Roles

Creative & Performing Arts Roles

Fitness Roles

  • Build shelters, teach survival skills, lead hikes & guide mountain biking or ziplining sessions. 
  • These adrenaline-fuelled roles are ideal for nature lovers & thrill-seekers.
  • Earn the highest industry salary while enhancing your outdoor skills. 
  • Perfect if you’re spending a gap year in the USA and want to get off the grid! 
  • Share your love for dance, drama, music or visual arts with campers of all ages.
  • Whether you’re choreographing a musical or teaching watercolour painting, you’ll help kids express themselves creatively.
  • A fantastic fit for arts students seeking hands-on experience in a fun, immersive setting.
  • Perfect for enthusiastic leaders to coach tennis, basketball, baseball, gymnastics & more.
  • If you’re a qualified fitness instructor or just love sports, you can help kids build confidence while staying active.
  • A top choice for anyone hunting for active summer jobs in America for UK students.

For more information on our wide range of summer camp counsellor roles, visit our previous blog, visit our Camp Roles page! 

What’s Included with Wild Packs Summer Jobs in America?

When you sign up for a summer job through Wild Packs, you’re not just getting a placement – you’re getting full support, transparent pricing and access to some of the best American summer camps for British students. 

Whether you’re heading out on a USA gap year or looking for a meaningful way to spend the summer break, we’ve got everything covered so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Full Visa & Insurance Support

Apply with a Friend! 

  • J-1 Visa paperwork & step-by-step application support
  • SEVIS (Student & Exchange Visitor Information System) fee paid for you
  • Four-month comprehensive medical insurance
  • 24/7 support throughout your stay in the USA
  • Add your friend’s name to your application
  • Significant discounts for referrals, so you can save while sharing memories
  • We’ll try our best to place you both at the same camp (or nearby ones!)
  • Zero stress & a 30-day free travel period with your J-1 Visa after camp

When Should UK Students Apply for Summer Camps 2027?

If you’re already dreaming about campfires and sing-a-longs, now’s the perfect time to start planning for summer camps 2027. Applications for next year’s season are open NOW – and the most popular roles get snapped up fast! 

Whether you’re a student looking for summer jobs in America for UK citizens or planning a USA gap year, applying early gives you the best shot at landing your dream camp role: 

  • Get first pick of the most in-demand roles: like football coaching jobs abroad, horse summer camp jobs, or watersports instructor positions.

     

  • Boost your chances of being placed at one of our 300+ incredible ACA-accredited American summer camps.

     

  • Have plenty of time to get your J-1 Visa, book flights and start planning your post-camp USA travel.

     

  • Enjoy peace of mind knowing your summer is sorted long before exam season hits!
A group of summer campers sitting by a lake.

Kickstart Your Summer Camp Adventure with Wild Packs

If you want a summer packed with adventure, professional and personal growth, Wild Packs is here to make it happen. With no upfront fees, industry-leading salaries and access to 300+ camps, we make it easy for UK students to have a memorable USA summer camp experience. 

Here’s what you’ll get when you apply with Wild Packs:

  • Food, accommodation & training all included
  • Expert support from start to finish (our team has been there and done it!)
  • The chance to work at some of the best East Coast summer camps
  • The freedom to travel the USA after camp with your J-1 Visa
  • A variety of roles & memorable experiences

     

Ready to apply for summer camps 2027? Get started today and let Wild Packs match you to your perfect camp role.