[2026] Camp Counselor, Fresh Air Camps

Hudson Valley, NY
Seasonal
Entry Level

Summer Camp Counselor  
Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 20 – August 15, 2026 

Make a Difference This Summer! 

Are you ready to gain hands-on leadership experience while creating unforgettable memories for youth in the great outdoors? Join one of Fresh Air’s six overnight summer camps as a Summer Camp Counselor and contribute to a 145-year legacy of providing transformative summer experiences for children from New York City’s underserved communities. Located in the beautiful Hudson Valley, each camp provides unique programming tailored to different age groups and interests, from outdoor adventure to arts and sciences.  

This position requires living onsite at camp from June 20 to August 15, 2026. Compensation for this role is $2,500 for the summer. Shared housing and meals are provided. 

Life as a Camp Counselor: 

Working at an overnight camp is an immersive, all-encompassing experience. As a Camp Counselor, you’ll live in cabins with 6-12 campers and co-counselors, sharing meals, activities, and the rhythms of camp life. Days are filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, and ropes courses, as well as quieter moments for reflection and bonding. You’ll take on the rewarding responsibility of mentoring and supervising a group of campers while working closely with co-counselors to ensure campers are safe, engaged, and thriving.  

Camp Counselors report to their Village Leader. 

What You’ll Do: 

  • Lead & Mentor: Provide 24/7 supervision, leadership, and mentorship for a group of 6-12 campers, fostering their growth and development. 
  • Plan & Participate: Organize and engage in a variety of activities, including sports, swimming, arts & crafts, archery, model farming, and camp-wide events. 
  • Ensure Safety: Take responsibility for the physical and emotional well-being of all campers, addressing challenges with empathy and skill. 
  • Collaborate: Work closely with co-counselors and Program Specialists to deliver an enriching camp experience. 
  • Model Excellence: Lead by example, promoting teamwork, respect, and resilience. 
  • Track Progress: Write daily reports and final evaluations to document each camper’s journey. 
  • Immerse in Camp Life: Fully embrace the unique environment of overnight camp, including communal living, shared meals, and spirited activities. 

What We’re Looking For: 

  • At least 18 years old by the start of camp (June 29, 2026). 
  • A high school diploma is required; some college experience is preferred. 
  • Commitment to work and live onsite at camp for the entire summer season (June 20, 2026 – August 15, 2026). 
  • A passion for working with children and at least one year of experience in a similar role. 

As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace and to protecting the participants we serve, The Fresh Air Fund requires all camp staff to meet applicable vaccination requirements in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, and to be fully vaccinated against polio and MMR. As new public health issues arise, The Fresh Air Fund may require additional vaccinations. Proof of vaccination or an approved exemption will be required as a condition of employment. 

Compensation & Perks: 

  • Compensation for this position is $2,500 for the summer. 
  • All meals and housing provided during camp. 
  • The opportunity to gain valuable experiences in leadership, communication, and teamwork that will stand out on any resume. 

Ready to Join Us? 
Apply now to become a Camp Counselor and help us create magical summer moments. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and interviews are held virtually by our Camp Directors. 

Discover Fresh Air Camps 
Since 1877, Fresh Air Fund Camps have opened new doors for over 1.8 million children, offering transformative summer programs and year-round leadership opportunities. Our six residential camps are located in the beautiful Hudson Valley, offering a stunning natural setting for exploration and growth. Each camp provides unique programming tailored to different age groups and interests, from outdoor adventure to arts and sciences, creating an enriching environment for both campers and staff. Learn more about Fresh Air Camps: www.freshair.org/learn-about-our-camps/ 

Diversity & Inclusion Statement 
The Fresh Air Fund is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring and fostering a diverse staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations, and communities to apply. 

The Fresh Air Fund Terms and Conditions:

1. Messages are sent by The Fresh Air Fund and its recruiting partner CampHire (Camp2Career, LLC) to candidates who apply for jobs and consent to receive SMS communications related to recruitment and hiring. Candidates provide their phone number during the application process and must actively opt in to receive SMS updates. Messages include job application updates, interview scheduling, interview reminders, interview confirmations, hiring updates, and other employment-related notifications. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Candidates can reply STOP to opt out at any time or HELP for assistance. Links to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use are provided at the time of consent.

2. You can cancel the SMS service at any time. Just text "STOP" to the short code. After you send the SMS message "STOP" to us, we will send you an SMS message to confirm that you have been unsubscribed. After this, you will no longer receive SMS messages from us. If you want to join again, just sign up as you did the first time and we will start sending SMS messages to you again.

3. If you are experiencing issues with the messaging program you can reply with the keyword HELP for more assistance, or you can get help directly at privacy@freshair.org or 800-367-0003.

4. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages

5. As always, message and data rates may apply for any messages sent to you from us and to us from you. Message frequency may vary. If you have any questions about your text plan or data plan, it is best to contact your wireless provider.

6. If you have any questions regarding privacy, please read our privacy policy below.

Privacy Policy:

We collect your mobile number and related opt-in data for the delivery of SMS messages. Your mobile opt-in data and consent will not be shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.

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