Guide / Counselor

Do you have a passion for the outdoors and a desire to inspire the next generation of explorers?

Birchwood Wilderness Camp is seeking dedicated Summer Camp Counselors and Guides to join our team. Located in the heart of northern Minnesota, Birchwood offers campers the chance to experience canoeing in the Boundary Waters, hiking along Lake Superior, and fishing some of the state’s finest waters.
Counselors live in rustic cabins with 5–7 boys (ages 7–17) and a co-counselor, leading engaging, safe, and meaningful experiences. Responsibilities include guiding multi-day canoeing, climbing, and hiking trips, as well as running traditional camp activities on weekends.

Ideal candidates are responsible, energetic, and patient leaders who thrive in a team setting and value outdoor education.

Special Benefits

Paid for certifications upon completion:

Wilderness First Aid (WFA) - all first year staff

Red Cross Lifeguard

Camp covers all Room and Board costs

Requirements

First and foremost, Birchwood counselors must have a fun-loving disposition and sincere desire to be a strong and caring mentor who enriches the lives of boys. Being a camp counselor is incredibly fun and rewarding - and it demands a lot of energy, patience, and kindness!

We hire a small team of 15 college-age men each summer. Applicants must be able to commit to the entire summer season, including our staff week that typically begins the first weekend of June and our summer season ends the first week in August.

Experience caring for children is required for this position. Employees must be willing and able to promote our specific vision after extensive training and on-going support. Counselors must be able to complete all of their responsibilities each day with a positive attitude. Preference is given to applicants with proven skills in one or more of the daily activities/wilderness trips we offer, though training is available in every skill.

All staff positions require visual and listening skills sufficient to keep campers safe and the physical and emotional strength to work the long hours that are part of the camp counselor position.

Why work here

Join a team that values growth, leadership, and the transformative power of wilderness.