YMCA Storer Camps: Job Guide for International Counsellors

Imagine spending your summer leading activities on a lake in Michigan, earning $2,250+, and then travelling the US for 30 days after. That's what working at YMCA Storer Camps through AmeriCamp looks like!

Set on a stunning 1,200 acres surrounding Stony Lake, YMCA Storer Camps is a large outdoor camp and environmental education centre in southeast Michigan. It runs summer overnight camps, outdoor adventure programmes, and leadership experiences for young people.

Working at YMCA Storer Camps as a camp counsellor offers the chance to spend the summer in a beautiful outdoor setting surrounded by forests and lakes in Michigan's Irish Hills region. Counselors help lead activities such as swimming, paddlesports, crafts, and outdoor adventure programmes while supporting campers as they build confidence, independence, and friendships.

AmeriCamp  is a programme that helps applicants from around the world secure summer camp jobs in America at U.S. camps like YMCA Storer Camps. For just GBP 399, we provide placement support, J-1 visa sponsorship, and guidance throughout the experience, with accommodation and meals included at camp.

Getting to Know YMCA Storer Camps

The YMCA operates a massive network of summer camps in the U.S., with approximately 1,467 day camps and over 230 overnight (residential) camps. YMCA Storer Camps is one of the largest and most established YMCA camp properties in the Midwest. 

Where Is the Camp?

YMCA Storer Camps is located at 6941 Stoney Lake Road, Jackson, MI 49201, in the Irish Hills region of southeast Michigan. The property includes forests, lakes, open fields, and purpose-built program areas designed for outdoor recreation and environmental learning.

For international staff, the location offers convenient access to nearby cities. Toledo is about an hour away, while Detroit is roughly 90 minutes from camp. These cities are useful travel hubs for arrivals, departures, and exploring the region during time off or after the camp season.

Who Are YMCA Storer Camps For?

YMCA Storer Camps serves a wide range of campers through several age-specific programs:

• Day Camp: Ages 5–12, offering local children a full day of outdoor activities before returning home each evening.
• Overnight Camp: Ages 7–17, where campers stay in cabins and participate in a traditional residential summer camp experience.
• Outdoor Education: Typically ages 9–12, where school groups visit during the academic year for environmental and experiential learning programs.

In addition to youth programmes, this summer camp in America also hosts Family Camp sessions where families experience camp together, as well as Group Retreats for schools, community groups, and organizations throughout the year. You could be working with anyone from energetic 5-year-olds at Day Camp to teenagers at Overnight Camp, so flexibility is key!

What Are the Facilities Like?

The Storer Camps campus spans roughly 1,200 acres of natural landscapes surrounding Stony Lake, giving campers access to a wide range of outdoor environments for activities and exploration.

Facilities include:

• Equestrian facilities
• Specialized program spaces for arts, nature study, and outdoor adventure
• Lakeside waterfront areas
• Cabin villages for overnight campers
• Dining halls
• Activity fields
• Trails through wooded areas

The large property allows multiple programs to run simultaneously while still maintaining the relaxed, nature-focused atmosphere that defines the camp experience.

What Camp Programs and Activities Are Offered?

As well as the Summer Overnight Camp, Day Camp, and Outdoor Education programs we’ve mentioned, YMCA Storer Camps has a few more unique opportunities. You may find yourself working as a counsellor at: 

• Ranch Horse Camp: Horse-focused programming that allows campers aged 8–16 to learn horseback riding and horse care skills in a supervised environment.
• Camp Catch-A-Rainbow: A special program designed for children aged 4–17 who have been affected by cancer, providing a supportive camp experience tailored to their needs.
• Family Camp: Multi-day sessions where families stay at camp together and participate in activities as a group.
• Group Retreats: Custom programs for schools, organizations, and community groups of all ages, offered throughout the year.

Across these programmes, campers can take part in activities such as:

• Swimming
• Paddleboarding
• Horseback riding
• Arts and crafts
• Tree climbing
• Many other outdoor recreation and team-building experiences

For counsellors, this variety means every day at camp can look a little different depending on the program and activity schedule.

Why Work at YMCA Storer Camps?

Working at YMCA Storer Camps offers international counsellors the chance to spend a summer outdoors, gain practical leadership experience, and become part of a global staff community while supporting young people at camp. Here's why so many international counselors choose YMCA Storer Camps for their American summer camp experience.

Experience an American Summer

A summer at YMCA Storer Camps takes place in the rolling hills and lakes of Michigan's Irish Hills region, where long sunny days are spent outdoors on the camp's 1,200-acre property surrounding Stony Lake. Here, you'll have the chance to enjoy American summer camp traditions, like songs (and s'mores!) around the campfire, and hot afternoons by the lake.

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The staff community is also strongly international. YMCA Storer Camps has welcomed counsellors from countries including Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, Colombia, and England, creating a diverse team where people share cultures, traditions, and perspectives while working together. It's the kind of summer adventure camp experience you simply can't get at home.

A Valuable Resume Boost 

Being a camp counsellor looks great on your CV, and also builds leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills that employers actually care about. Whether you’re planning a career in education, childcare, outdoor leadership, tourism, psychology, or business, the experience of living and working in an international team while supporting young people can help send your job application to the top of the stack!

Travel Opportunities After Camp

International counsellors who work at U.S. summer camps participate on the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa. One of the benefits of this visa is that international staff have 30 days after camp ends to remain in the United States and travel. Many counsellors use this time to explore major cities, visit national parks, or take road trips with friends they met during the summer before returning home.

For ideas on making the most of your time, check out our guide to working at a USA summer camp.

What Do Camp Counsellors Do at YMCA Storer Camps?

Camp counselors at YMCA Storer Camps supervise campers, lead activities, and help create a safe, supportive environment where young people can enjoy outdoor experiences and develop confidence. Here's what the role actually looks like day to day.

Different Camp Counsellor Roles Available

YMCA Storer Camps hires several types of counsellors and program staff to support its different summer programmes.

General counsellors typically supervise groups of campers and help guide them through their daily schedule of activities, ensuring everyone is safe, included, and engaged. They often live in cabins with campers during overnight sessions and help lead group traditions like campfires and evening events.

The camp also hires activity specialists who lead specific program areas such as:

• Archery
• Canoeing and kayaking
• Paddleboarding and swimming (lifeguards are always in high demand)
• Fishing
• Equestrian programs
• Arts and crafts
• Sports and outdoor adventure activities

If you have specific skills in any of these areas, make sure to include them in your camp counsellor resume and AmeriCamp application. You can also check out our guide to camp counselor resume skills for more tips on what to highlight.

Typical Day in the Life

Life at YMCA Storer Camps follows a structured but active schedule centred around outdoor activities and camper supervision. A typical day might look like this:

1. 7:00 AM — Wake up, get ready, and help campers prepare for the day
2. 7:30 AM — Head to the dining hall for breakfast with your cabin group
3. 8:30 AM — Morning flag ceremony or all-camp gathering
4. 9:00 AM — First activity session (e.g., swimming, paddleboarding, nature exploration)
5. 10:30 AM — Second activity session (e.g., arts and crafts, team sports, archery)
6. 12:00 PM — Lunch in the dining hall
7. 12:45 PM — Rest period or cabin time
8. 1:30 PM — Afternoon activity sessions across the 1,200-acre property
9. 3:30 PM — Free swim or open activity time at the waterfront
10. 5:30 PM — Dinner
11. 6:30 PM — All-camp evening programme, campfire, themed events, or games
12. 8:30 PM — Help campers settle into cabins for the night
13. 9:30 PM — Lights out for younger campers; staff debrief or downtime

Because the camp hosts hundreds of campers each week, staff work as part of a coordinated team to keep programmes running smoothly while maintaining a safe and supportive environment for everyone. For a full breakdown of what the role involves, check out our summer camp counselor job description.

Staff Culture and Community

Staff teams are built around the YMCA's core values (caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility), which guide both camper programming and workplace culture. For many international counsellors, the relationships formed with fellow staff members become one of the most memorable parts of the summer experience.

Many counselors describe the staff community as the highlight of their summer. With team members from countries like Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, Colombia, and England, you'll share meals, inside jokes, and days off with people from all over the world. The bonds formed during a camp summer often lead to lasting friendships and future travel plans together.

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What YMCA Storer Camps Look for in Camp Counsellors

YMCA Storer Camps seeks camp counsellors who can create a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment, actively participate in camp life, and support young people’s growth. Beyond basic requirements, the camp values individuals who bring energy, responsibility, and a willingness to be fully involved in both the daily routine and the wider camp community.

Core Qualities They Value

The most important camp counsellor qualities at YMCA Storer Camps are:

• Enthusiasm: This means actively engaging in whatever you’re leading, whether that’s bringing energy to horseback riding sessions or making crafts fun for younger campers. It’s about helping campers feel confident trying new things.
• Responsibility: On a 1,200-acre property, counsellors supervise campers across lakes, trails, and activity areas. Staying alert, organised, and safety-focused is essential.
• Adaptability: Outdoor camp life is unpredictable. Weather, schedules, and camper needs can change quickly, so you need to adjust plans and keep activities running smoothly.
• Positive attitude: Days are long and active, so staying patient, encouraging, and team-focused helps maintain a strong camp environment.

These qualities matter at YMCA Storer Camps because you’re constantly moving between activities, environments, and camper groups, so being engaged and flexible is an essential part of the job.

Skills That Make You Stand Out

While personal qualities are essential, certain skills can help your application stand out during the hiring process:

• Experience working with kids, such as coaching, tutoring, or youth group leadership
• Outdoor or activity-based skills, including swimming, paddlesports, hiking, or team sports
• Expertise in lifeguarding, horseback riding, or arts and crafts instruction

YMCA Storer Camps values counsellors who combine practical skills with a willingness to learn, contribute to the team, and make the most of the summer camp experience.

How Do I Become a Counsellor at YMCA Storer Camps?

The most common way for international applicants to become a counsellor at YMCA Storer Camps is by applying through AmeriCamp, which helps you secure a placement, arrange your visa, and prepare for working at a U.S. summer camp.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements

To work as a camp counsellor at YMCA Storer Camps, applicants are generally expected to meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old by June 1st of your program year and have completed high school
• Speak at a conversational level of English
• Have a genuine interest in working with children and young people
• Have a clean criminal background and are in good health
• Demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
• Be energetic, adaptable, and comfortable working outdoors 

You can find more info on AmeriCamp’s eligibility and requirements here.

Visa Requirements for International Applicants

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa is a U.S. cultural exchange visa that allows international participants to live and work temporarily in the United States as camp counsellors.

At AmeriCamp, we handle this process step by step. After securing a placement at a camp like YMCA Storer Camps, you’ll receive the necessary sponsorship documents, attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy, and prepare for travel. 

Remember, the visa also allows you to stay in the U.S. for up to 30 days after your camp contract ends, giving you the option to visit other parts of the country before returning home.

AmeriCamp’s Application Process

Applying through AmeriCamp typically involves a structured process designed to match you with the right camp:

1. Submit an online application outlining your experience, skills, and availability
2. Interview with AmeriCamp staff, who assess your suitability for camp roles
3. Build a counsellor profile that camps like YMCA Storer Camps can review
4. Attend a placement interview if the camp is interested in hiring you
5. Accept your offer and begin visa preparation, including paperwork and the embassy interview

Ready to get started? Apply to AmeriCamp today!

Interview Tips

When interviewing for YMCA Storer Camps, it helps to tailor your answers to what the camp specifically values:

• Highlight times where you’ve supported others, been a role model, or contributed to a team
• Demonstrate enthusiasm for the outdoors
• Talk about how you would lead activities, keep energy high, and help campers feel included
• Share specific examples of thinking on your feet or handling challenges

It’s a good idea to practice your answers ahead of time, so you can speak confidently during your interview. If you’re looking for somewhere to get started, these AmeriCamp camp counsellor interview questions are a great resource. 

Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions about YMCA Storer Camps, whether you’re clarifying the work schedule or learning more about the camp’s setting and amenities. It’s a great way to show you’ve done your research and helps camp directors see how invested you are in the opportunity. 

YMCA Storer Camps FAQs

How Much Do Counsellors at YMCA Storer Camps Get Paid?

Compensation varies depending on your experience and specific role, but AmeriCamp guarantees a minimum salary of $2,250 USD for your time at camp. AmeriCamp's programme fee is just GBP 399, and with meals and accommodation included, most counsellors are able to save a lot of their earnings. 

What Are the Dates for YMCA Storer Camps?

YMCA Storer Camps’ summer camp season typically runs from mid-June through mid-August, with staff arriving earlier for training before campers arrive. Exact staff contract dates may vary slightly year to year, but international counsellors should expect to commit to 8–10 weeks, including training.

What Visa Do You Need to Work at YMCA Storer Camps?

International counsellors work at U.S. summer camps on the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa. This visa allows you to live and work in the U.S. for the duration of your camp contract and includes a 30-day grace period after camp ends, giving you time to travel before returning home.

What Training and Support Do YMCA Storer Camps Provide?

Training at YMCA Storer Camps includes camper safety and supervision, activity instruction (e.g., waterfront, outdoor skills), and camp policies and emergency procedures. You’ll participate in a few days of orientation to make sure you know the ropes before the campers start to arrive.

What Should I Pack? 

Counsellors should pack comfortable, practical clothing suitable for outdoor camp life. This includes t-shirts, shorts, and athletic wear, plus swimwear for waterfront activities. You’ll also want comfortable shoes or trainers and a hoodie or jacket for cooler evenings. 

You can take a look at our AmeriCamp packing list for more tips, and YMCA Storer Camps has a packing list that’s designed for campers but still helpful to give you an idea of what to pack. 

What Happens if I Get Homesick?

Reach out to your co-counsellors or supervisors for support. Homesickness is common, especially during your first time living abroad for an extended period. At YMCA Storer Camps, the busy schedule, strong staff community, and supportive environment help most counsellors adjust quickly. Most international counsellors find that once they settle in, camp begins to feel like a second home.

Do I Get Time Off?

Yes. Counsellors receive regular time off during the week, which may include scheduled breaks, evenings off, or designated rest periods depending on the program structure. Because YMCA Storer Camps run in sessions, you may also have short breaks between camper groups. Many counsellors use their time off to relax at camp or explore nearby areas like Detroit or Toledo.

What is the Food Like?

Food is typically camp-style and balanced, including options like hot meals, pasta, sandwiches, salads, and breakfast staples. YMCA Storer Camps has a full-service kitchen able to accommodate most dietary needs, including gluten, dairy, egg, and soy-free options in addition to vegetarian and vegan options. Meals are provided on-site and served in a central dining hall, where campers and staff eat together. 

Live Your Dream Summer at YMCA Storer Camps With AmeriCamp

Working at YMCA Storer Camps is a chance to step outside your comfort zone, build real-world skills, and be part of a close-knit, international community. From leading activities on the lake to spending evenings around the campfire with your new friends, the experience combines outdoor adventure with meaningful work supporting kids.

For international counsellors, it’s also an opportunity to gain independence, develop confidence, and create lasting memories in a uniquely American setting. Plus, you’ll have the chance to explore more of the country once your camp placement wraps up. 

International work visas and overseas travel can be intimidating, but AmeriCamp can help you get there. If you’re ready to make your summer unforgettable, apply to AmeriCamp today and lock in your spot for the summer.