Mastering Camp Staffing: Your Guide to Safe and Effective Hiring!

It might feel early, but for those of us in the camp world, staffing is always on our minds. Camp staff are the heartbeat of the season, turning a good year into a great one! They’re the ones connecting with campers daily, making a real impact on the growth and experiences of these young people.

So, what do we need to know to hire staff safely? How many counselors should we bring on, and what skills are essential? Today, let’s dive into some guidance from New York State Code Sub-Part 7-2 – Children’s Camps, focusing on camp counselor requirements.

Here are the basics from New York code: counselors need to be at least 18 for overnight camps and 16 for day or traveling camps. Up to 20% of counselors can be 17, as long as overall ratios are maintained. Counselors either need experience working with kids or must have completed a training course that the permit-issuing official deems acceptable. It’s up to camp operators to verify a prospective counselor’s background and character through references and other reasonable inquiries.

New York’s staff-to-camper ratios also vary based on the activity:

1:25 for passive activities

1:10 for overnights with campers aged 8 or older

1:8 for younger kids (under 8)

1:12 for day camps

In addition, According to Code Sub Part 7-2, the permit-issuing official may require more restrictive counselor-to-camper ratios if they feel it’s necessary for camper safety.

That’s quite a bit to take in, but don’t worry—these requirements boil down to a few key principles. Here’s my recommendation: focus on hiring counselors who are 18 or older first, then build out CIT and LIT roles sparingly, keeping an eye on those ratios for younger staff.

And don’t forget to check in with your health department—early! Reach out as soon as December or January for a June start date. They’re the ones issuing permits, and they’re also great allies for getting everything lined up for a smooth, safe summer.

As always, if you have specific questions, ask on the forum! Camp staffing requirements can vary quite a bit by state, so please let me know where you’re writing from. I’d be happy to reference the specific camp regulations for your state to give you the most accurate guidance.