How do I Know Which Camp to Choose?

Below is a list of questions that you may find helpful when speaking to Camp Directors and deciding which camp to attend:

  • Where does your staff come from? 
    How long is your average interview? 
    Is staff hired in person? 
    Does everyone get interviewed (i.e. former campers)?

  • Is your camp accredited by the American Camping Association?

  • What are the camp's goals and philosophy?

  • What are the facilities like? 
    Are the toilets and showers in the bunk?

  • What is the camper-counselor ratio?  
    What are the characteristics of most of the staff?

  • What kind of staff training is provided? 
    How do you decide what bunk I will live in?

  • Is the camp coed, brother/sister, all girls, or all boys? 
    What are the advantages / disadvantages of each?

  • How many sessions are offered?

  • Who plans and runs the evening activities and special events? 
    How involved are the counselors in terms of participation?

  • How many days off do I have a summer and when do they begin and end (i.e. night before to morning after)?

  • On my day off, is transportation provided anywhere?

  • How many nights a week am I on duty (OD)? 
    What is my curfew?

  • How much free time do I get off in the daytime?

  • How often are there staff meetings?

  • What is the food like and who prepares it? 
    Do you have options for vegetarians? 
    Is there a Salad Bar?

  • Do the counselors serve the meals, are there waitresses, or is it cafeteria style? 
    Who is responsible for bussing the tables after meals?

  • Is there a staff laundry service? 
    Are there washers and dryers available to use on campus?

  • Is there a staff lounge? 
    What is available to use in the staff lounge (TV/VCR, videos, pool table, etc)?

  • Does staff have internet access? 
    What is the cost, if any?

  • How does the camp insure the safety and security of its campers/counselors?

  • What medical facilities are available and what medical staff is on campus?

  • If I am ill or injured and cannot work, do I forfeit a day off?

  • What happens when it’s raining? 
    Does the fun stop?

  • What kind of Staff Events / Parties do you have? 
    How often? 
    Do I ever get to participate in any of the activities, i.e. water-skiing, aerobics, ropes, art, tennis, etc.?

  • What is the schedule like? 
    Is it a structured program or one that emphasizes a lot of free choice?