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Backpacking counselors at Gold Arrow Camp are responsible for leading a group of 8-10 campers on an amazing overnight experience in the beautiful Sierra National Forest, near the famous John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails. Backpacking counselors are responsible for navigation, helping with water purification, cooking, and bear prevention. Counselors work with a group counselor to supervise the campers. Backpacking counselors are also responsible for teaching campers about Leave No Trace themes, as we are a LNT accredited program. When backpackers are not on the trail they are preparing for upcoming trips or leading activities such as outdoor cooking and nature at camp.
The primary responsibility of Gold Arrow Camp counselors is the care and safety of all campers. We are looking for counselors who are positive role models, who enjoy working with kids and being outdoors, who genuinely want to invest in the lives of young people and commit to their growth, happiness, and friendship.
Backpacking counselors live in 2 person wall tents with another staff member while they are in camp. In addition to a lack of personal privacy, this job is hard work AND very very rewarding. There are other summer jobs that will be less demanding and maybe even offer higher pay. You have to ask yourself why you want to be a camp counselor – if it is to have a fun, easy job this summer, you want to rethink what you consider easy and fun.
Backpacking counselors need to have a WFA (or be willing and able to get one before camp), be able to complete the job (including lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds) walking on uneven ground at 7000-9000 feet above sea level. Gold Arrow Camp does pay a bonus for having a WFA. A larger bonus is available if you hold a WFR. All staff members must be at least 18 with one year of post-high school experience. Compensation is $530/week, room, board, and laundry free of charge. Travel stipends available to those coming from outside of California.
