Summer Staff Resources

General Information

Travel Details

There is important information you need to know about how to get to and from camp this summer. Whether you live in the U.S. or outside of the U.S., read this document: Travel Details PDF.

What to Pack

Working at camp means being prepared for a wide range of weather and work conditions.

To help you pack with confidence, we’ve created a checklist so you can come ready for the summer ahead — without forgetting the essentials.

View the checklist here

Orientation Dates

Monday, May 18

  • Ropes Manager
  • Camp Manager – Camp Friendship only

Tuesday, May 19

  • HR & Volunteer Services Asst.
  • Office Coordinator
  • Marketing & Communications
    • Content Creator
    • Visual Storyteller
    • Communications & Storytelling Specialist

Wednesday, May 20

  • Special Diets

Thursday, May 21

  • Leadership
    • Camp Manager
    • Cabin Coordinator
    • Activities Coordinator
    • Youth Development Coordinator
    • Transportation Coordinator

Friday, May 22

  • Activities Coordinator

Monday, May 25

  • Activities Counselor (Non-lifeguard)
  • Camp Nursing Asst.

Wednesday, May 27

  • Support

Saturday, May 30

  • Cabin Counselors

Sunday, June 14

  • Late starts

Helpful Links

Domestic Staff Frequently Asked Questions

What paperwork do I need to bring with to orientation?

Bring two forms of ID – typically, staff members bring their driver’s license and social security card, or a passport. Be sure to check the full list which will be included in your on-boarding paperwork from Paycor, which you’ll receive in early April.

Can I bring my own car and park at camp?

Yes! Staff parking is available at all sites.

What is 'deferred pay'?

“Deferred pay” is an incentive for your work during the summer. Live-in (stipend-paid) summer camp staff members who complete their contract, work six weeks or more and are in good standing at separation will earn an additional amount for each week worked.

This amount will be paid at the end of September, provided the End of Summer Survey is completed by Sept. 15.

International Staff Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare for my Visa interview?

Bring ALL of the documents requested (DS160 confirmation page, SEVIS receipt, passport with photo, and proof of return to your country of citizenship). If you have additional questions, you can contact the international partner organization you’re working with (Camp Leaders or IENA).

How do I prove I plan to return to my country of citizenship?

Bring documentation showing your ties to home, such as a copy of a rental agreement, enrollment in classes at your university for the fall, or proof that you’ll be living with family.

What if I am planning to travel around the U.S. after camp?

Many staff members end up planning trips together, so we recommend waiting to finalize travel plans until after camp starts. You’ll make lots of new friends quickly, and it’s often easier, and more fun, to plan end of summer trips once you’ve arrived at camp!

What will the weather be like in Minnesota?

From June to August, Minnesota can be warm! Expect a mix of hot, humid, windy, and rainy days. Daytime temperatures typically range from 70-100° Fahrenheit (20-35° Celsius).