A Day in the Life of a Camp Winaukee Counselor: Where Growth, Community, and Fun Come Together

Being a counselor at Camp Winaukee isn’t just a summer job; it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact on young boys, while also learning and growing yourself. Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, our all-boys sleepaway camp provides a unique environment where both campers and staff thrive. With a focus on community, sportsmanship, growth, and fun, every day at Winaukee is an adventure.

If you’re thinking about becoming a Camp Winaukee counselor, here’s a look at what a typical day looks like for our incredible staff members. Get ready to experience fun, friendships, and personal growth in ways you never expected.

7:00 AM: Rise and Shine

The day starts early at Camp Winaukee, with the sound of the morning reveille signaling the beginning of another exciting day. As a counselor, you’re up and ready to go before the campers begin to stir.

Tip for New Counselors: Start your day with a positive attitude! Your energy sets the tone for the campers, so be prepared to bring enthusiasm and a smile.

8:00 AM: Fire Circle and Morning Routine

Once the campers wake up, everyone gathers for the morning Fire Circle: a daily tradition where The Mainland comes together to start the day with a sense of community and excitement. It’s a great opportunity for counselors to connect with their campers, share announcements, and motivate everyone for the day’s activities. Afterward, everyone heads to the dining hall for a filling breakfast before a busy day of activities.

As a counselor, you’ll also guide your campers through the morning routine of getting ready for the day’s activities—helping them pack up their gear, encouraging them to dress appropriately, and making sure everyone is prepared for their first activity.

9:00 AM: Morning Activities Begin

Campers dive into their first scheduled activity of the day. Whether it’s a sport like basketball, soccer, or tennis, or a waterfront activity like swimming or kayaking, counselors are there every step of the way, leading by example, teaching skills, and offering encouragement.

In addition to being a coach or instructor, you’ll be a mentor, helping boys navigate the challenges of teamwork, sportsmanship, and growth. Watching the campers develop their abilities, overcome obstacles, and build confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

Tip for New Counselors: Whether you’re leading a sports clinic or a team-building exercise, remember that your attitude is contagious. Show campers that challenges are just opportunities for growth!

12:45 PM: Lunch and Rest Hour

After a morning of activities, it’s lunch time! As a counselor, you’ll sit with your campers at each meal. It’s also a great time to check in on how the campers are feeling and foster relationships outside of structured activities. Following lunch is Rest Hour, where campers can unwind, read, write letters, or relax in their bunks. This is a time for counselors to engage with campers, not take a rest. Some counselors use this time to chat with their campers one-on-one, play board games or cards or assist with any personal issues that might arise.

Tip for New Counselors: Bring some of your favorite games or activities to camp to play with your campers during rest hour!

2:00 PM: Afternoon Activities and Electives

After Rest Hour, it’s time for three more exciting activities. This includes two scheduled activities and one elective. As a counselor, you’ll guide campers through these, helping them explore new interests and expand their horizons. In the afternoon, many campers choose to participate in electives that focus on personal passions or hobbies, like a individualized sports instruction, cooking or W.A.M (Winaukee Arts and Making). Counselors act as facilitators, providing instruction and creating a supportive environment where campers can develop their skills.

Tip for New Counselors: Keep an eye on campers’ interests! If a boy shows a particular passion or talent in one area, encourage him to pursue it and offer extra support to help him succeed.

5:30 PM: Free Time and Reflection

After the final activities of the day, campers are given free time to play pick-up games or hang out with friends. This is an ideal time for counselors to connect with their campers on a personal level.

It’s important to note that this time is also when counselors can have informal one-on-one check-ins with their campers, offering mentorship and guidance. It’s these moments of quiet reflection and connection that often lead to the most profound relationships and personal growth for both counselors and campers.

Tip for New Counselors: Use this time to build bonds with your campers. Whether it’s tossing a frisbee or chatting about life, your role as a mentor extends beyond just activities.

7:00 PM: Dinner and Evening Activities

After a long and rewarding day, the camp gathers for dinner in the dining hall. As a counselor, you’ll encourage campers to stay engaged and excited about the meal, all while fostering a sense of community. It’s also the perfect time for campers to share stories about their day and reflect on the accomplishments and challenges they faced.

Following dinner, evening activity begins. Evening activities vary from day to day but often include group games, talent shows, or themed events. Counselors help set up and facilitate the activity, ensuring that campers are engaged, having fun, and building teamwork and friendship.

Tip for New Counselors: Evening activities are a great time to let your silly side shine. Whether it’s leading a skit, organizing a group game, or hosting a trivia contest, your enthusiasm will set the tone for an unforgettable night.

9:00 PM: Showers and Lights Out

As the day winds down, campers head back to their bunks for showers and lights out. This is also when counselors have a final chance to connect with campers, making sure they’re feeling comfortable and relaxed before heading to bed.

Tip for New Counselors: Be sure to take a few minutes each night to reflect on the day, celebrate small victories, and plan for a fresh start tomorrow.

Why Being a Counselor at Camp Winaukee is More Than Just a Job

At Camp Winaukee, being a counselor is about much more than just overseeing activities. It’s about building relationships, guiding young boys through life-changing experiences, and becoming a part of a community rooted in sportsmanship, growth, and fun. It’s a job where you’re not only helping boys grow into strong, capable young men, but you’re growing alongside them; learning valuable leadership skills, building lifelong friendships, and creating memories that will stay with you forever.

So, if you’re ready for a summer of adventure, camaraderie, and personal growth, a Camp Winaukee counselor position may just be the perfect fit for you.