You’ve seen the movies – cabins in the woods, endless lakes, campfires, epic team challenges, and those legendary camp counsellors leading the way. Now it’s your turn to make it real. Spend your summer working at a classic American summer camp, helping kids aged 6–16 have the best time of their lives – all in some of the most beautiful natural spots across the USA. In exchange for all the fun, you’ll get free camp accommodation, three meals a day, and a minimum stipend of $2,250 USD for a 9-week camp. That means almost everything you earn can go straight into funding your post-camp adventures across the States!
No need to worry about rent, commuting or meals. It’s all part of the full camp experience – think cabins, bunk beds, 3 meals a day, no additional expenses and those classic campfire vibes.
You’ll earn a minimum of $2,250 USD for your time at camp – and because your meals and accommodation are already covered, you can put those earnings straight into your post-camp adventures.
We support you with finding a summer camp before you leave Australia, so there’s no last-minute stress or job hunting when you arrive and you can get started right away.
Stay protected with government-approved medical insurance that covers you during your time at camp and for your post-camp travels too. Because when you’re adventuring across the US, it’s best to have backup just in case.
The adventure doesn’t stop when camp ends! Your J-1 visa includes up to 30 extra days to travel around the USA. Hit the road with your new mates, explore national parks, visit iconic cities, or just take it easy before heading home.
Getting your J-1 visa sorted is essential – and we’ll guide you through every step. From sponsorship paperwork to embassy appointments, we make the process simple, so you can focus on getting excited for your summer ahead.
Spend 9–12 weeks living and working at camp in the USA! Most placements run from June to mid-August, but if you’re free from May to late August, even better – more camps can match with you. So… What Is a Camp Counsellor Anyway? In short: you’re the magic that makes camp unforgettable. Camp Counsellors are the heartbeat of camp life, making sure kids have the time of their lives all summer long. There are two main types of roles you might take on: Activity Leader or General Counsellor. Here’s the lowdown:
Activity Leader
Got a skill you love—like football, dance, archery or kayaking? This one’s for you.
As an Activity Leader, you’ll run sessions in your chosen activity, helping kids build confidence while having a blast. You’ll plan fun, engaging lessons and get stuck into camp life too. You might also live in a cabin with your campers and join in on all sorts of other activities you’ve never tried before!
General Counsellor
Think of this role like being a big brother or sister. You’ll be living in a cabin with a group of campers, helping them through daily routines—meals, free time, and getting them to and from activities.
You’ll build strong bonds, be a role model, and probably jump in on activities yourself. You might even get the chance to plan games, lead events, or try your hand at something new.
Camp Types
We work with hundreds of camps to find the perfect match for you. Here’s what’s out there: Traditional Camps: The classic summer camp vibe – cabins by the lake, overnight stays, heaps of activities like sports, watersports, arts, and more. We also access a number of Special Needs, Single-gender camps and Faith-Based Camps.
STEP 1: REGISTER YOUR INTEREST & APPLY
Complete your online application form, telling us about your skills, experience, and motivation for working at Camp.
Pay your $99 AUD Application Fee (refundable up to 2 weeks after payment or before your interview).
Book your virtual AmeriCamp Interview with one of our Brand Ambassadors to help match you with your perfect Camp!
STEP 2: INTERVIEW & PROGRAM APPROVAL
Smash your interview and officially pass the first stage!
Pay your $350 AUD Assessment Fee to move forward.
Once paid, your application goes live to Camps across the USA. We’ll match you with Camps that fit your skills and preferences!
STEP 3: PLACEMENT CONFIRMATION & VISA PROCESS
Accept your Camp Placement and pay the final $400 AUD Placement Fee.
AmeriCamp will then issue your DS-2019 Visa Sponsorship Form, allowing you to book your J-1 Visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy.
Book your flights (after securing your Visa!) and attend a fun in-person Orientation before heading off for a Summer of Non-Stop Fun!
Application Fee $99 AUD Paid before interview (non-refundable after interview)
Assessment Fee $300 AUD Paid after successful interview
Placement Fee $400 AUD Paid after accepting your Camp placement
TOTAL PROGRAM FEE $799 AUD
WHAT YOUR PROGRAM FEE INCLUDES
ADDITIONAL COSTS TO BUDGET FOR
Where does the tour start and finish?
The Tasmania tour starts and finishes in Hobart. This tour departs on specific dates which can be found in our book section. Days 1 & 7 will be pre/post tour accommodation at YHA Hobart.
Who will I be travelling with?
You’ll be travelling with a group from all over the world, and a fully trained Under Down Under guide available whilst on tour. Group sizes vary but you can generally expect to travel with a group of approximately 10-20 people.
Where will I be staying?
2 nights is spent in YHA Hobart, in shared accommodation at a hostel, 1 at the start and 1 at the end of your trip. The remaining 4 nights are also spent in mixed dorm hostels in the following locations: Strahan (2), Bicheno (1) and Launceston (1)
Are meals included?
Meals are not included, this a self-catering tour. There are plenty of great food and drink stops along way and all your hostels will have kitchen facilities you can use.
Can you help me organise flights & insurance?
Sure! We recommend searching and comparing flight prices using Skyscanner.com – get a flight quote. Find the best insurance policy for your Ultimate adventure with the help of our recommended travel insurance provider.
Are there any extra fees?
No! There are no hidden or extra fee’s luckily! You will visit (alot) of National Parks which usually incur park fee’s but don’t stress – these are all covered!
Can I organise an airport transfer?
Unfortunately we cannot organise this for you…but the good news is that organising this yourself is super easy! Head to the SkyBus website to book your Hobart Airport to CBD transfer.
What is the weather like in tasmania?
As a general rule, the more south you head in Australia the colder the temperatures and Tassie is no exception. Make sure you bring plenty of warm clothing, especially at night! You can expect average temperatures of around 19°C in Summer and a brisk 8-9°C in the winter. With it being a maritime climate and off the coast of Melbourne too, you really could experience 4 seasons in one day so expect the unexpected!
How can I be a sustainable and responsible traveller?
Under Down Under are proudly an Advanced Eco-Certified Tour Company and make every effort to protect all the National Parks and World Heritage Sites Tasmania have on offers. Ways you can be a sustainable and responsible traveller include: Leaving no trace – your guide will explain how you can make sure your bushwalks and mountain hikes leave no impact on the local environment Buying locally produced goods to support the Tassie businesses Re-usable cups – We know everybody loves a morning coffee but try using a sustainable cups for your morning brew and daily water supply Keeping the wildlife “wild” – your guide will explain all you need to do to protect the wildlife so that you are also protected from the wildlife
What if I have more questions?
If you have any more questions or need any more info, get in touch with our sales team!
How do I book?
To book, select your chosen departure date, enter your details and we’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as useful information about your tour and where you can meet others booked onto your start date! Need someone to talk through your travel plans with? Get in touch!
695-699 George Street.
Sydney, NSW 2000
ABN: 91 133 215 166
