1

Summer Camp Counselor Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Camp Manager

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

... a summer camp program serving hundreds of families and employing a large seasonal workforce. Responsibilities * Leadership & staff * * Supervise all Managers, Assistant Managers, Counselors and ...

Showing results 41-60

Summer Camp Counselor information

See Reston, VA salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do summer camp counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer camp counselor in Reston, VA is $16.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer camp counselor?

Summer camp counselors are individuals responsible for supervising, guiding, and ensuring the safety and well-being of campers during summer camp programs. They lead activities, facilitate games, and foster a positive, inclusive environment for children and teens. Counselors also serve as role models, help resolve conflicts, and often assist with daily routines such as meals and cabin assignments. Their goal is to create a fun, memorable, and enriching camp experience for all participants.

What does a summer camp counselor do?

A summer camp counselor helps children explore age-appropriate recreation activities in a structured program. Camp hours vary since some are day camps while others are overnight camps. Campers can range in age from early elementary to high school levels, so camp activities may differ to address a variety of needs. Activities in summer camp programs can include both indoor and outdoor events, and camp counselors direct and supervise each activity. You will work directly with children, communicate with parents, help kids learn and explore, and manage attendance and safety paperwork.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer camp counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Camp Counselor, you generally need experience working with children, basic first aid knowledge, and often at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with camp management systems, safety protocols, and certifications like CPR or lifeguarding are typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help counselors engage campers, manage group dynamics, and handle unexpected situations. These skills and qualifications ensure a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp environment for all participants.

What are some common challenges faced by summer camp counselors, and how can they be overcome?

Summer Camp Counselors often face challenges such as managing groups of energetic children, addressing homesickness, and resolving conflicts between campers. To overcome these, counselors use strong communication skills, maintain clear routines, and foster a positive, inclusive environment. Building rapport early and staying adaptable helps counselors respond effectively to unexpected situations, ensuring a safe and enjoyable camp experience for everyone involved.

What is the difference between Summer Camp Counselor vs Summer Camp Director?

AspectSummer Camp CounselorSummer Camp Director
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid certification often preferredCollege degree often required; leadership and management experience beneficial
Work EnvironmentOutdoor camp settings, assisting with activities and supervising childrenOffice and outdoor settings, overseeing camp operations and staff
Employer & Industry UsageSummer camps, recreational organizationsCamp organizations, recreational companies, educational institutions
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both roles are integral to summer camp programs, Summer Camp Counselors focus on supervising children and facilitating activities, often with minimal management responsibilities. Summer Camp Directors oversee the entire camp operation, including staff management, budgeting, and program planning. The roles differ mainly in scope, responsibilities, and required experience, but both are essential for a successful camp experience.

Are summer camp counselors paid?

Yes, summer camp counselors are typically paid for their work, with wages varying based on location, experience, and the camp's budget. Many camps also offer additional benefits such as room and board or training opportunities. Compensation is usually provided on a weekly or seasonal basis, and some positions may require certifications like CPR or first aid.

Can I be a summer camp counselor with no experience?

Summer camp counselor positions often do not require prior experience, as training is typically provided on-site. Employers look for qualities such as enthusiasm, responsibility, and good communication skills, and some certifications like CPR or first aid can be helpful. Many camps hire first-time applicants and provide the necessary training to prepare them for the role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Camp Counselor jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Camp Counselor jobs in Reston, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Summer Camp Counselor jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Summer Camp Counselor jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Summer Camp Counselor jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Summer Camp Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Summer Camp Counselor job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 38% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,374 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

YMCA Silver Spring Camp Specialty 26

YMCA of Metropolitan Washington

Silver Spring, MD โ€ข On-site

$17.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is one of the largest charities in the DC area. The Y serves as an anchor in the community offering programs and services encompassing youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
FIND YOUR PLACE AT THE Y... BE A CAMP SPECIALIST THIS SUMMER.
Summer camp...adventure, friends, and fun. The Y invites you to join us for an amazing summer that is so much more than a job.
Position: Camp Specialist Pay Rate: $17.75
The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is currently hiring Summer Camp Specialists. Working at the Y, you will create exciting and impactful experiences for children, build connections with your peers and Y professionals, expand your leadership skills, and have fun! This is a seasonal position for the months of June through August 2026.
Some of the exciting things you will do as a Camp Specialist:
  • Plan and instructs classes in a highly specialized area or provide specialized service
  • Create a place for campers to have fun, learn, explore, and make new friends.
  • Provide leadership, enthusiasm, and heart to the camp program
  • Oversee several groups of campers with assistance from counselors and junior counselors
  • Oversee the Counselor in Training Program
  • Implement the daily camp program in accordance with the overall camp program and curriculum schedule
  • Deliver the daily and weekly program plan ensuring that they fit the campers needs and interests
  • Mentor campers to help them adjust to camp life and to each other
  • Responsible for the safety of the campers
  • Support a safe and healthy environment for all campers
  • Interact with the campers at all times, participating in activities alongside the campers
  • Assist with and participate in all camp-wide activities and special events
  • Support the program goals of the Y
  • Participate in staff trainings and meetings as required

What you need to be a Camp Specialist:
  • Be able to work from the week before camp begins for training to the end of the final week of the season
  • Must be skilled and/or certified in teaching crafts, songs, stories, games, sports, aquatics and other related camp activities
  • High school graduate
  • 18 years of age
  • Willing to participate in and obtain CPR and First Aid Certification
  • Clear the local jurisdiction requirements for criminal background and/or fingerprinting
  • Meet the county/state licensing requirements
  • Prior supervisory experience in a day camp setting and two season's experience as a counselor
  • Skilled in teaching a variety of crafts, songs, stories, games, sports, aquatics and related camp activities
  • Able to effectively communicate with children and parents
  • Ability to lead a class or provide an individual service
  • Ability to educate and motivate participants
  • Understand and be committed to working with diverse population and to Y character development

Physical requirements:
  • Must be able to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time
  • Must be physically active to play games and sports with the children
  • Must be able to pick-up at least 35 pounds
  • Must have visual acuity to observe all children
  • Documentation of physical examination and TB skin test

We offer the following benefits:
  • Competitive compensation
  • Free Y membership
  • 403(b) savings plan
  • Exciting and collaborative work environment
  • Ability to work with creative, talented and diverse individuals!

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a workplace culture where all employees are treated with fairness and respect.