Every year, Tyler Hill Camp welcomes a diverse team of camp counsellors from all over the world. They get to spend their summer soaking up the sun, making new friends, and inspiring young campers every single day. And, with just a few easy clicks, you can join them!
In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about Tyler Hill Camp, including:
- The camp’s history, values, programs, and amenities
- What it’s like to be a camp counsellor at Tyler Hill Camp
- The benefits of working at Tyler Hill Camp
- How to make sure you’re eligible for AmeriCamp, Tyler Hill, and a J-1 visa
We’ll also explain how AmeriCamp makes it easy for international applicants to secure incredible camp counsellor positions at USA summer camps. We specialise in connecting top talent with the best U.S. summer camps, and offer everything from visa support to pre-departure orientation.
So, if you’re ready to build your resume, learn a whole lot about yourself, and spend every day laughing in the sunshine, let’s get you one step closer to the best summer of your life! Start your AmeriCamp application here or keep reading to discover the magic of Tyler Hill Camp.
Why We Love Tyler Hill Camp
There are thousands of summer camps across the United States, but Tyler Hill Summer Camp stands out as one of the best places to work as a counsellor. Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania’s scenic Pocono Mountains, this premier co-ed sleepaway camp is a traditional, seven-week summer camp for kids aged seven to 16. Here’s why we think it’s one of the best summer camps in the U.S.
About the Camp
Founded in 1955, Tyler Hill Camp has a long-standing reputation for excellence in youth programming and counsellor development. The camp sits on over 220 acres of open fields, wooded trails, private lakes, and modern facilities that make life at camp feel like a home away from home (with a lot more amenities!).
Located just two hours from New York City, it’s the perfect blend of nature and convenience, giving staff and campers the chance to enjoy the outdoors while still being close to major cities for post-camp travel. It really is the best of both worlds!
Values and Culture
At the heart of Tyler Hill Camp is its “Circle of Life” philosophy, which guides every aspect of camp life. This includes core values like kindness, respect, teamwork, sportsmanship, and responsibility. As a counsellor, you’re modelling these values daily and helping campers grow into confident, caring people.
Like most summer camps in America, the camp culture is known for being inclusive, energetic, and deeply connected. From counsellors to campers to leadership staff, everyone works together to create a warm, welcoming environment. International staff members aren’t just welcomed, they’re celebrated!
Programs and Activities
Whether you’re a soccer star, a budding artist, a theatre enthusiast, or just someone who loves working with kids, Tyler Hill has a summer camp job for you. The camp offers a diverse schedule of activities that fall into three major categories:
- Athletics: Soccer, basketball, tennis, baseball, lacrosse, flag football, golf, and more
- Adventure: High ropes, zip lining, climbing wall, overnight camping, mountain biking
- Waterfront: Swimming, kayaking, wakeboarding, and waterskiing on the private lakes
There are also specialised teen programs for 9th, 10th, and 11th-grade campers, which focus on developing leadership skills and taking special trips out of camp to add some more excitement to the summer!
As well as the three main programs listed above, campers can choose two activities each day as electives. This lets campers customise their camp experience and try new activities or revisit some of their favourites, such as:
- Cooking and baking
- Ceramics
- Arts and crafts
- Graphic design
- Robotics/Coding
- Yoga
- Candlemaking
- Drama/Plays/Stagecrew
- Photography
- And so much more!
As a camp counsellor, you’ll either lead or assist in these activities, depending on your skills and training. You’ll have the chance to share your passions, discover new ones, and create magical moments for your campers.
What Does a Counsellor Do at Tyler Hill Camp?
From sun-up to lights out, counsellors are at the heart of life at Tyler Hill Camp, guiding campers, running activities, and spreading camp spirit everywhere! But what exactly does the job involve? Here’s a breakdown of the summer camp counsellor job description for Tyler Hill.
Types of Counsellor Roles
There are two main types of camp counsellors at Tyler Hill Camp: General counsellors and speciality counsellors. General counsellors live in the bunk with campers and act as their main support throughout the summer. You’ll supervise daily routines and spend each day participating in general activities, from meals to sports. It helps if you have prior childcare experience, but you don’t need any specialised camp counsellor resume skills for this role.
If you have a strong skill or experience in something like soccer, drama, swimming, or photography, you could be hired as a speciality counsellor. Like general counsellors, speciality counsellors also live in the bunk with the campers and have general camp responsibilities. On top of that, they spend six hours each day working in their speciality area, running activities for kids of various age groups.
Daily Responsibilities
No two days at Tyler Hill are exactly the same, but counsellors follow a structured routine that keeps camp fun and organised. On any given day, being a camp counsellor might involve:
- Supervising campers from morning wake-up to evening bedtime
- Leading or assisting with activities such as team sports, arts, or adventure
- Attending and participating in special events like talent shows, themed days, or campfires
- Helping with cabin routines, like clean-up, meal times, and bedtime
- Building strong, supportive relationships with your campers and co-counsellors
- Communicating with leadership staff about camper needs or behavioural concerns
It’s a full-on schedule, but you’ll have time off each week to relax, recharge, and connect with the other camp counsellors at Tyler Hill.
Who Can Apply Through AmeriCamp?
AmeriCamp partners with the best summer camps in the USA (like Tyler Hill) to place enthusiastic, responsible, and passionate young adults in counsellor roles across America. Here’s everything you need to know about who can apply and how to get started.
Eligibility Requirements
To work as a camp counsellor in America through AmeriCamp, you’ll need to meet a few basic criteria:
- Age: You must be 18 years or older by May 1st of your program year
- Availability: You’ll need to be available for the entire summer season, typically 8 to 10 weeks, including orientation and camp wrap-up.
- English proficiency: You should have a good command of spoken English, as communication with campers and staff is essential.
- Health and fitness: Camp life is active! You must be in good physical and mental health to keep up with the energy of excited campers every day.
- Clean background: You must be able to pass a criminal background check, which is standard for working with children in the U.S.
AmeriCamp accepts applicants from a wide range of countries, and we help you every step of the way with your placement, documentation, and visa process.
Experience and Background
You don’t need to be a qualified teacher or a professional coach to work at the camp at Tyler Hill, but some experience working with kids looks good on your camp counsellor resume. Here’s what camps like to see:
- Childcare experience in babysitting, tutoring, mentoring, or previous camp work
- Leadership roles such as team captain, club president, or youth group leader
- Skills and hobbies like sports, drama, music, swimming, or arts and crafts
Even if you’ve never worked at a camp before, your passion, work ethic, and enthusiasm can go a long way. AmeriCamp helps match you to the right role based on your strengths, values, and interests.
J-1 Visa Requirements
To work at a U.S. summer camp as an international applicant, you’ll need a J-1 camp counsellor visa, and this is where AmeriCamp really shines! We’ll guide you through the J-1 application and DS-2019 form process, and help you prepare for your U.S. Embassy visa interview.
All J-1 visa holders also need health insurance that meets the coverage requirements outlined by the U.S. Department of State. AmeriCamp ensures you’re covered for the whole time you’re in the U.S., not just during your camp placement.
How to Become a Tyler Hill Camp Counsellor With AmeriCamp
So, you're excited about working at Tyler Hill Camp, and now you’re wondering how to actually make it happen. Here’s how to get a job as a summer camp counsellor with AmeriCamp, either at Tyler Hill or one of our other incredible camp partners.
Step 1: Create Your AmeriCamp Account and Verify Eligibility
First, you’ll need to begin your AmeriCamp application. It only takes a few minutes to create your profile, and once you're in the system, you can begin uploading your details. You'll be asked to provide:
- Personal information (passport, contact info, education)
- Work/volunteer experience
- Hobbies, skills, and preferred counsellor roles
- Availability dates
Once you register, we’ll review your eligibility to confirm you meet the J-1 visa requirements, schedule a quick chat to make sure you’re a good fit for the program, and answer any questions you might have. If everything checks out, you’ll be officially on your way!
Step 2: Interview with Camp Directors
Next, we’ll start circulating your resume with our network of camp partners. If you have the skills of a camp counsellor they’re looking for, you’ll be invited to a virtual interview with a camp director. This is your chance to:
- Show your passion and enthusiasm for working with kids
- Talk about any special skills or experience you bring to the table
- Explain why you want to be a camp counsellor
- Ask questions about daily life at camp and your potential role
The interview is informal but important. Directors want to know if you're dependable, energetic, and ready to live the 24/7 camp lifestyle. If it’s a good fit, you’ll receive a placement offer shortly after.
Step 3: Visa and Paperwork
Once you’ve been offered a job at a summer camp in America, the next step is preparing your J-1 visa application. Don’t worry, we’ll handle all the tricky parts for you. Here’s what you’ll do:
- Receive your DS-2019 form, which is your official visa sponsorship document
- Complete the DS-160 visa form
- Schedule your J-1 visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate
- Gather required documents (passport, offer letter, etc.)
We’ll walk you through each form and make sure you’re well prepared for your interview.
Step 4: Pack Your Bags!
With your visa secured and camp placement confirmed, all that’s left is the adventure! We can assist you with booking travel that works with your camp start date, and we’re always available for any questions or concerns you have heading into camp.
You can also check out our AmeriCamp packing list to make sure you’ve got all the essentials, and as your departure date approaches, your camp will send a list of things to bring to camp as a counsellor.
Benefits of Working at Tyler Hill Camp
Whether you're seeking adventure, career skills, or a meaningful cultural exchange, Tyler Hill offers a lot more than your average summer job! Here’s why working at Tyler Hill Camp is one of the most rewarding choices you can make.
Personal and Professional Growth
Tyler Hill Camp is a fast-paced, people-focused environment that pushes you to grow in ways you never imagined. As a counsellor, you'll develop valuable soft skills that employers around the world love to see:
- Leadership: Whether you're guiding campers or running activities, you'll become more confident and capable in managing groups.
- Communication: You’ll learn how to connect with people from different backgrounds and age groups.
- Problem-Solving: Every day is different at camp. You'll learn to think on your feet, adapt quickly, and stay calm under pressure.
- Teamwork: You’ll collaborate with other counsellors and staff to create a safe, exciting, and supportive camp experience.
By the end of the summer, you’ll return home more self-assured, independent, and ready for whatever comes next. Plus, there are lots of other careers that build on the skills you develop as a camp counsellor.
Cultural Exchange Opportunities
Working at a USA summer camp is an incredible opportunity for cultural exchange. Camp is a global melting pot, and you’ll be immersed in a diverse, inclusive environment. You’ll be living and working alongside Americans and other international staff from countries like the UK, Australia, South Africa, and beyond.
As well as meeting people from around the world, you’ll get to experience American traditions like 4th of July celebrations, campfires, colour wars, and more. Plus, you’ll also have a chance to share your own culture in the form of music, games, and food.
Pay and Perks
While the experience is priceless, you’ll also be compensated for your time and effort. You’ll earn a minimum camp counsellor salary of $2,000 USD, and you won’t have to spend a cent on accommodation or meals! You’ll also have access to the incredible camp amenities, scheduled time off, and the full support of AmeriCamp for added peace of mind.
Travelling After Camp With Your J-1 Visa
One of the biggest perks of working at Tyler Hill Camp on a J-1 visa? You can explore the U.S. after camp ends! Here’s what you need to know about extending your American summer with the J-1 visa travel period:
30-Day Grace Period
When your contract at Tyler Hill Camp (or any of our summer camp jobs in America) comes to an end, the fun doesn’t have to! Thanks to the 30-day grace period that comes with your J-1 visa, you’re legally allowed to stay in the United States for up to 30 days after your program officially finishes.
This time is meant for tourism and travel only, and you cannot legally work during the grace period. But it’s the perfect chance to:
- Explore the biggest, best U.S. cities (like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago)
- Road trip along the coast or through national parks
- Visit friends or fellow counsellors in their hometowns
- Soak up the culture, sights, and food of the country you’ve called home all summer
Just remember, you must leave the U.S. before the 30 days are up. Overstaying could affect your ability to return in the future, so mark your calendar and plan ahead!
Tips for Planning Post-Camp Travel
If you’re planning to travel after your American summer camp job wraps up, the earlier you start organising your trip, the better. Here are some tips to make the most of your post-camp U.S. adventure:
- Start budgeting early: While your accommodation and meals are covered at camp, you’ll need to manage your own costs afterwards. Save part of your summer earnings for flights, hostels, food, and sightseeing.
- Coordinate with other counsellors: Many international staff travel in groups after their summer adventure camp. It’s more fun (and often cheaper!) to explore with friends you’ve just spent the summer with.
- Use travel apps and deals: Apps like Hopper, Skyscanner, and Hostelworld can help you find cheap flights and affordable places to stay.
- Stay flexible: While it’s good to plan your route, some of the best travel experiences come from being spontaneous. Leave room in your itinerary for last-minute adventures.
- Keep documents safe: Always travel with your passport, DS-2019 form, and a copy of your visa. You may need to show proof of your J-1 status during domestic travel.
And of course, stay connected with AmeriCamp! If you need support or advice during your travels, our team is still here for you, even after your summer camp job abroad ends.
Make This Summer Count by Counselling at Tyler Hill Camp!
A regular summer job waiting tables or working retail is a good way to earn some extra cash, but you might be missing out on daily lake swims, sing-alongs under the stars, and making some fun new friends! A camp counsellor job gives you the best of both worlds, putting extra money in your pocket while making sure you get to enjoy an incredible summer, surrounded by amazing people.
If you’re interested in working as a camp counsellor in the U.S., there’s nowhere better to do it than Tyler Hill Camp. With great facilities, dedicated staff, and a beautiful setting, you’ll find yourself having “pinch me” moments every single day. Plus, with AmeriCamp on your side, securing camp jobs, a J-1 visa, and health insurance has never been easier.
Start your AmeriCamp application today to give yourself the summer you deserve!
