Here’s some camp staff encouragement for the sunburned and emotionally drained—the ones running on trail mix and sheer determination. It’s the middle of the summer, the excitement from the beginning of camp is waning, and the finish line isn’t quite visible yet. But the campers keep coming, and the sun keeps rising, and you’re still there just doing your best. You’re exhausted in every sense of the word. Being tired isn’t failure—it’s the cost of caring deeply for your campers.
Why this Feels so Hard
The Demands on Your Day
Let’s face it: camp staff face some pretty intense days. It’s a miracle you’ve found time to even read this.
For weeks, you have been the parent, guardian, referee, entertainer, therapist, and cheerleader to a horde of campers. For counselors, by the end of the day, when the last camper is finally tucked in, there’s maybe 12.3 seconds of silence before the homesickness sets in or someone whispers about a bug in their bed.
If you’re tired, it’s because you’re giving everything. That’s not just okay—it’s a sign you’re doing the work that matters.
You’re Tired, and that’s a Good Thing
You didn’t become a staff member at camp for the paycheck. You signed up to help create a summer your campers will never forget. But somewhere in the middle of the season, when the finish line feels out of reach, it’s easy to wonder: Am I even making a difference?
You are.
You’re still showing up, even on the tough days—and that matters more than you know. To the campers, your presence means stability, safety, and someone who cares. You are someone who shows up, even when it’s tough. That means more than you know.
Big Wins Happen in the Small Moments
What is Success at Camp?
If you’ve ever considered ‘everyone still alive’ as a successful day… you’re not alone.
Success at camp isn’t flashy. It’s the quiet moments: when a camper finally opens up, when they laugh for the first time, when they choose to connect. These small moments build trust and confidence for your camper. It’s about creating a space where campers feel safe, seen, and valued. You’re making a bigger difference than you may think.
When it All Clicks
Some campers show up thrilled to be at camp. They’re excited for every activity, eager to meet everyone, and nothing seems to dampen their enthusiasm. But not all campers start that way—and that’s okay. Some just take a little more time and care to reach.
During my first summer as a counselor, I had a camper who made her feelings about camp very clear: “Camp stinks, and I don’t want to be here.”
Challenge accepted.
She also set a firm boundary—no physical contact—which was absolutely respected. She was withdrawn and disengaged with staff and cabin mates. She’d rather read or draw, and trying to get her to participate in activities felt like a losing battle. I didn’t think we were getting through to her at all.
Over the next few days, the energy of the cabin and the pull of camp life started to chip away at her. We connected over card games and her favorite books. She started choosing to participate, laughed more, and even made a few friends.
On the last day, I was saying goodbye to my cabin, offering hugs as we parted. I didn’t expect anything from her. But as I turned to go, she ran up and threw her arms around me in the biggest bear hug I’d ever received.
These little moments are what make camp what it is. The joy of seeing your campers grow bit by bit, even the ones that might provide a challenge at first.
You’ve Got This
In the long run, your campers won’t remember how often the schedule changed or the number of times it rained. What they will remember is how you made them feel. They’ll remember that you took time to listen, that you celebrated with them, that you enjoyed their oddly specific animal facts, and most of all, that you made them feel like they belonged.
So if you’re feeling worn out and wondering if you’re making any difference at all, know that you are. You’re doing the exhausting work of care. And honestly? You’re doing better than you think. (Now go drink some water. You need it.)
