I have filled out an application, when will I hear back?
Once your application has been received and all three references are turned in, you will be contacted. You may or may not be given a chance to interview as this is done at the discretion of the directors. If you are not chosen to interview, you will receive a letter. If you are interviewed, you will be contacted by your interviewer at a later date when a final decision has been made.

The website says priority is given to those who can work the whole summer, should I still apply even if I can only come for a portion?
This is entirely up to you. As mentioned, we will give stronger consideration to those who can stay for the duration of the summer, but there are some times when we can match applicants for halves of the summer or different sessions. It is generally very hard for new staff members to jump in if they miss either the staff training or a chunk of the summer.

What if I am scheduled to go on a mission trip with my church/college ministry or have a wedding during the summer?
We understand that this is ministry and we do our best to accommodate these requests, but we cannot make guarantees. It is often difficult to find someone to fill this time when you are off, so we prefer to have plenty of advance notice in trying to work out a game plan. Regarding weddings, we only allow time off if you are in the wedding and arrangements can be made to care for your campers. As with any time off for trips/weddings, this time is unpaid.

What is your time table for hiring staff?
We generally recruit staff from January thru April. Applications are accepted through the spring semester and we seek to place all returning staff by February. Depending on the volume of applications, we may be finished hiring by April. Please feel free to email or call us if you need to know your employment status.

Who can I use as references for employment?
Camp Istrouma requires each applicant to provide three references.  These forms should be completed by:
1) a pastor, campus minister, or youth leader,
2) a teacher or an employer,
3) another adult unrelated to you.

How are staff placed in cabins?
A few days into staff training week we examine the dynamics of the staff as a whole.   At that time the directors will pair counselors based on experience, training, compatibility and other factors.

What are your campers like?
We believe our campers are the best in the world! Most of our campers are returning campers and live fairly close to our camp.  Even so, they come from diverse backgrounds and situations, and we seek to love them as Christ loves us.    Ultimately, each camper is unique and made in the image of Christ. They must be ministered to in a unique way that that both matches their level and meets their needs.

How much time off is provided?
The staff days off are Friday at 12:00pm until Sunday at 6:00pm (unless otherwise noted.)  Staff may also work during the weekend for $10.00 hour to help retreat groups.  During this time staff may stay at camp and meals are provided during working hours.

Do you allow staff to receive visitors?
Visitors are not allowed during the weekly summer sessions when children are on site.  The reason for this policy is that receiving visitors is a liability for camp on two levels:  1) allowing someone into the camp without a background check opens the camp to liablity, and 2) visitors distract our staff from their primary job, which is caring for our campers. We have found that it is nearly impossible to serve two masters at camp, and we need our staff’s full attention dedicated to our kids.  However, in your off hours (see above) you may have visitors.  They may not stay overnight at the camp unless approved by the director/assistant director and have a specific function or purpose. When meals are provided, visitors are required to pay $5 per meal eaten at camp.

How are staff paid?
Staff will be paid every two weeks on Friday.

I have an exercise routine I would like to keep up when I come to camp. How can this be accommodated?
Exercise is primarily done on your own time.

What can I expect when I arrive at camp?
You can expect to be greeted upon arrival with a big smile and reassuring words. The camp directors will do everything possible to acclimate you with camp life and to help you settle in. The first day will consist of a nice dinner, time to get to know one another, worship, and plenty of fun. You will feel at home in no time.

What is cabin life like?
Cabin life is intense. Counselors live in the cabins with kids and share space throughout the summer. This is also the place where real relationships are forged. The rustic and natural setting of camp takes many distractions away that tend to cloud our vision of God. While it may be an adjustment for most of us to live in a cabin with 10-15 kids at any one time, this new setting may be just what God is going to use to get your attention this summer!

How many counselors live in a cabin?
This depends on the age group you work with. For the most part, counselors are placed in pairs. We may have 3 counselors to a cabin if:  1) we combine cabins due to low numbers of campers, or 2) if you work with the younger age groups. Counselors will never work a cabin alone.

What is the ratio of staff to campers in a cabin?
We have two and sometimes three staff in each cabin, and 10-15 boys or girls in each cabin. Cabin ratios are generally 1:5 (staff to campers)

Do counselors live with campers?
Yes. Living quarters for counselors are shared between campers and staff. The cabins also do have bathrooms.

How is transportation arranged in getting to and from camp?
The majority of our staff members drive their own cars, but this is not absolutely necessary. In fact, parking is somewhat limited so if you can carpool or arrange a ride with someone else this is helpful.

Are counselors required to wear uniforms at all times?
No. All staff must wear a staff shirt and other required items on Opening and Closing days. These are obviously the days when parents are dropping off and picking up their children and we strive to look professional. While there is no uniform during the session there is a dress code provided with the contract if you are offered a position.

How is laundry handled at camp?
We ask that you laundry your clothes during your off time.  But we do have washing machines in the Staff Lounge if you have an emergency need to wash clothes this will need to be approved by director.

What happens during staff training week?
Training is devoted to helping you see every aspect of responsibility you will have throughout the summer. It is essential that you are provided with a realistic picture of what kids will be like, how to care for them, and ways to respond in difficult situations. You will also receive instruction on what different age groups are like and how to work together as a team. During the first week of camp, we will have training with our two sister camps: Caney and URC.  Our focus will be lifeguarding, first aid and CPR certification. Some of the time will be dedicated to cleaning up camp and preparing it for campers. This is a wonderful time to get to know other staffers and get outside early. A good bit of time will be spent just getting spiritually ready for the challenge ahead. This includes worship, quiet times, and corporate prayer.

What support will I have as a staff member?
Directors are in charge of leading and shepherding the staff.  You will also have fellow counselors that will help you when needed.   The Camp Pastor and Religious Director also make this a primary goal through discipleship.  We will also be providing you with a ten week daily devotional book designed specifically for Christian Camps.  We know that our staff are the most vital part of our ministry and are thus supported well.

What is a typical day at camp like?
The key to understanding your day is to understand your campers’ day. Your day will almost completely mirror theirs. Your time will be split from meals, worship, to participating in some ridiculous game, to sharing insights from the Bible. This is the tip of the iceberg, because camp is wild and crazy—so get ready!  Check out a daily schedule of the campers: Camp Schedule.

What’s the food like?
Food at camp is top-notch. We eat well each day; from spaghetti and tacos, the food is a hit.  There is also salad and fresh fruit at all meals. Each meal you eat will be with your campers, and this is a wonderful time to share not only food but good conversation. Our meals are served buffet style. The menus at camp run on a one-week cycle, so be prepared that you will see the same meal each session. However, this break is typically sufficient for most staff.

What will I need to bring with me to camp?
Most of our returning staff bring less and less each year as they realize just how little they actually need at camp. That being said, you will most likely bring too much stuff in your first year on staff. That’s okay! A suggested packing list will be mailed out in the spring with a number of additional documents. Some essential items include: Bible, plenty of t-shirts and shorts, hygiene items, 2 pairs of tennis shoes, socks, sleeping bag or sheets and blanket, bug stray, camera, radio, and back pack etc. We are glad to provide guidance on items if you would like to email us: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it One HUGE disclaimer is that everything you bring is considered to be your risk. Please bear this in mind as you fill your bags.

What’s your policy on cell phones/internet?
You may bring a cell phone if you choose but will only be allowed to use it on your time off, or in the staff lounge. Cell phone use in the cabin will not be tolerated as it severely distracts from your duties as a counselor and our camp environment. Wireless Internet is available in limited areas on our campus.  Usage is limited to time off or off-duty times.

What does the staff lounge offer?
Lots of couches, 1 large TV’s, wireless high-speed internet connection, a refrigerator, laundry facilities

Of course, we cannot anticipate every question that you might think of. If we have not covered a question that you need the answer to in this area, please feel free to call or email us.