Camp Mishawaka
Camp Mishawaka
Currently recruiting for the season from May 30th, 2027 to August 6th, 2027.
Camp Mishawaka is located in Grand Rapids, Minnesota and was founded in 1910. With more than 100 years in the business, Mishawaka is a traditional, overnight outdoor camp serving children ages 8-16. Located on Lake Pokegama, campers stay for 2, 4, 6, or 8 weeks at a time. Our campers come from all over the country and world, representing 31 different states and 10 different countries.
Camp Mishawaka is located on the shores of Lake Pokegama in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Lake Pokegama is a beautiful 5,000 acre lake that offers natural access to the Mississippi River. It is cool, clean, and the sandy shore and gently sloping beach offer great access to everything the waterfront offers.
- Location
- Minnesota
- Season
- Summer
- Staff size
- 70
- Housing
- Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
- Housing details
- There is a variety of housing at Camp Mishawaka including large lodge-style cabins with electricity and smaller ones without. Counselors generally share a cabin with 4-6 campers. All lodging is simple, yet comfortable with easy access to adjacent shower and bath facilities.
- Family housing available
- No
- Single occupancy housing available
- No
- Pet friendly
- No
- Meals
- Provided
- Cell phone service
- Yes, most carriers
- Internet access
- Good
About Camp Mishawaka
Camp Mishawaka seeks to hire summer staff members for a variety of positions for the 2027 season from May 30th - August 6th who share a commitment to making a positive difference in the life of a child. Overseeing and developing lessons for specialized or general camp activities, living with and fostering an atmosphere of safety and comfort for a cabin group of 4-6 campers for up to eight weeks, leading a variety of activities throughout the day, and/or possibly planning and guiding extended wilderness trips for up to five days, staff at Mishawaka are provided with true leadership opportunities.
The Employee Experience
All the skills counselors learn (and hone), including critical thinking, collaboration, organization, communication, and creativity, have real world applications, and whether you are considering a career in education or another field, working effectively with people from different backgrounds and areas, as Mishawaka staff members do, provides an experience that you will be able to draw on for years to come.
Ideal Candidate
Due to the seasonal nature of camp, our staff are usually students and teachers - often a combination of married couples, veteran teachers and college-aged men and women. We do not require previous camp experience; we want to employ people who are passionate about leading by example and connecting with kids.
General Qualifications
Availability between May 30 and August 6
Eligible to work in the United States
Be 18 years of age or older by the time of employment
CPR, Wilderness First Aid, Lifeguard, Water Safety Instructor, and other relevant activity certifications preferred for activity head positions
Competencies
Enjoy working with children
Cultural competence and enthusiasm for working with a diverse and dynamic community
Ability to communicate with peers, campers, and parents, including written correspondence and record-keeping
Ability to observe and assess, by sight and sound, dangerous situations and behavior that endangers the camp community
Physical ability to move independently from place to place throughout a multi-acre, outdoor camp, and maintain your cabin area, including routine cleaning chores and assisting campers in need.
Capable of appropriate responses in a variety of situations that arise when working with children including regulation of emotions.
Room and Board
Free room and board are provided for all staff. There is a variety of housing at Camp Mishawaka including large lodge-style cabins with electricity and smaller ones without. Counselors generally share a cabin with 4-6 campers. All lodging is simple, yet comfortable with easy access to adjacent shower and bath facilities. A camp vehicle can be utilized on days off.
Employee Perks
In addition to their salary and room and board, staff at Mishawaka enjoy the following benefits:
A travel stipend is based on where they live. It is intended to cover the cost of transportation to Camp Mishawaka.
Free use of laundry machines on campus
Use of a camp vehicle on days off
Use of camp equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes during time off
Regular staff get-togethers and social hours during time-off
Getting Here and Getting Around
Camp Mishawaka is located in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. This small northern town is about three hours north of Minneapolis, and an hour and a half northwest of Duluth. For out-of-state staff, most arrive by plane, flying into Minneapolis/St. Paul Int'l Airport. When you arrive at the airport, a member of our team will be there to pick you up and bring you to Mishawaka!
For staff members who wish to drive to camp, that is no problem. Parking is available once you arrive. If you do not have a car, you may use a camp vehicle during your time off.
For Fun
Belaying a climber, teaching a camper how to sail, or describing to to build a perfect campfire — your day will be full of fun as you enjoy the natural beauty of the northern wilderness.
Current Job Openings
Availability between May 30 and August 6
Be 18 years of age or older by time of employment
Eligible to work in the United States
Extensive fresh water fishing experience
Camping/backpacking fishing experience preferred
Enjoy working with children!
Cultural competence and enthusiasm for working with a diverse and dynamic community
Ability to communicate with peers, campers, and parents, including written correspondence and record keeping.
Ability to observe and assess, by sight and sound, dangerous situations and behavior that endangers the camp community.
Physical ability to move independently from place to place throughout a multi-acre, outdoor camp, maintain your cabin area, including routine cleaning chores and assisting campers in need.
Capable of appropriate responses in a variety of situations that arise when working with children including regulation of emotions.
You live on the lake for 10 weeks! That means swimming, tubing, skiing, and sailing
You get to play games and be outside everyday
Room, board, laundry, and utilities are all covered
On days off, counselors are free to explore the town of Grand Rapids, rest on campus, or check-out Mishawaka equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. Staff have access to a camp vehicle on days off to help make visits off campus more accessible.
Availability between May 30 and August 6
Be 18 years of age or older by time of employment
Eligible to work in the United States
Extensive experience in safe gun-handling and shooting
NRA Rifle Instructor certification preferred
Experience instructing riflery preferred
Enjoy working with children!
Cultural competence and enthusiasm for working with a diverse and dynamic community
Ability to communicate with peers, campers, and parents, including written correspondence and record keeping.
Ability to observe and assess, by sight and sound, dangerous situations and behavior that endangers the camp community.
Physical ability to move independently from place to place throughout a multi-acre, outdoor camp, maintain your cabin area, including routine cleaning chores and assisting campers in need.
Capable of appropriate responses in a variety of situations that arise when working with children including regulation of emotions.
You live on the lake for 10 weeks! That means swimming, tubing, skiing, and sailing
You get to play games and be outside everyday
Room, board, laundry, and utilities are all covered
On days off, counselors are free to explore the town of Grand Rapids, rest on campus, or check-out Mishawaka equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. Staff have access to a camp vehicle on days off to help make visits off campus more accessible.
Availability between May 30 and August 6
Be 18 years of age or older by time of employment
Eligible to work in the United States
Experience playing tennis competitively (varsity high school, club, college level preferred)
Experience instructing tennis
Enjoy working with children!
Cultural competence and enthusiasm for working with a diverse and dynamic community
Ability to communicate with peers, campers, and parents, including written correspondence and record keeping.
Ability to observe and assess, by sight and sound, dangerous situations and behavior that endangers the camp community.
Physical ability to move independently from place to place throughout a multi-acre, outdoor camp, maintain your cabin area, including routine cleaning chores and assisting campers in need.
Capable of appropriate responses in a variety of situations that arise when working with children including regulation of emotions.
You live on the lake for 10 weeks! That means swimming, tubing, skiing, and sailing
You get to play games and be outside everyday
Room, board, laundry, and utilities are all covered
On days off, counselors are free to explore the town of Grand Rapids, rest on campus, or check-out Mishawaka equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. Staff have access to a camp vehicle on days off to help make visits off campus more accessible.
Availability between May 30 and August 6
Be 18 years of age or older by time of employment
Eligible to work in the United States
Previous experience working with children with gym equipment including free weights
CPR and other activity certifications preferred
Enjoy working with children!
Cultural competence and enthusiasm for working with a diverse and dynamic community
Ability to communicate with peers, campers, and parents, including written correspondence and record keeping.
Ability to observe and assess, by sight and sound, dangerous situations and behavior that endangers the camp community.
Physical ability to move independently from place to place throughout a multi-acre, outdoor camp, maintain your cabin area, including routine cleaning chores and assisting campers in need.
Capable of appropriate responses in a variety of situations that arise when working with children including regulation of emotions.
You live on the lake for 10 weeks! That means swimming, tubing, skiing, and sailing
You get to play games and be outside everyday
Room, board, laundry, and utilities are all covered
On days off, counselors are free to explore the town of Grand Rapids, rest on campus, or check-out Mishawaka equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. Staff have access to a camp vehicle on days off to help make visits off campus more accessible.
Availability between May 30 and August 6
Be 18 years of age or older by time of employment
Eligible to work in the United States
Previous experience working with children on high ropes / challenge courses and climbing walls
CPR, Wilderness First Aid, and other activity certifications preferred
Enjoy working with children!
Cultural competence and enthusiasm for working with a diverse and dynamic community
Ability to communicate with peers, campers, and parents, including written correspondence and record keeping.
Ability to observe and assess, by sight and sound, dangerous situations and behavior that endangers the camp community.
Physical ability to move independently from place to place throughout a multi-acre, outdoor camp, maintain your cabin area, including routine cleaning chores and assisting campers in need.
Capable of appropriate responses in a variety of situations that arise when working with children including regulation of emotions.
You live on the lake for 10 weeks! That means swimming, tubing, skiing, and sailing
You get to play games and be outside everyday
Room, board, laundry, and utilities are all covered
On days off, counselors are free to explore the town of Grand Rapids, rest on campus, or check-out Mishawaka equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. Staff have access to a camp vehicle on days off to help make visits off campus more accessible.
Availability between May 30 and August 6
Be 18 years of age or older by time of employment
Eligible to work in the United States
Previous experience planning and leading children on extended, overnight wilderness trips
Must have or be able to attain a CPR, Wilderness First Aid, and Lifeguard or Wilderness Water Safety certification
Must be comfortable in a wilderness environment, physically fit, and be able to lift and carry a 50 lb. backpack for a considerable time and distance.
Be able to cook meals for ten people in a backcountry kitchen, or the willingness to learn and practice outdoor cooking.
Extensive experience in wilderness camping or leading organized groups in the outdoors preferred
Experience in backcountry canoeing preferred
Climbing wall or high ropes experience preferred
Enjoy working with children!
Cultural competence and enthusiasm for working with a diverse and dynamic community
Ability to communicate with peers, campers, and parents, including written correspondence and record keeping.
Ability to observe and assess, by sight and sound, dangerous situations and behavior that endangers the camp community.
Physical ability to move independently from place to place throughout a multi-acre, outdoor camp, maintain your cabin area, including routine cleaning chores and assisting campers in need.
Capable of appropriate responses in a variety of situations that arise when working with children including regulation of emotions.
You live on the lake for 10 weeks! That means swimming, tubing, skiing, and sailing
You get to play games and be outside everyday
Room, board, laundry, and utilities are all covered
On days off, counselors are free to explore the town of Grand Rapids, rest on campus, or check-out Mishawaka equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. Staff have access to a camp vehicle on days off to help make visits off campus more accessible.
Availability between May 30 and August 6
Be 18 years of age or older by time of employment
Eligible to work in the United States
American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certification preferred (we are able to assist in candidates acquiring this)
American Red Cross Lifeguard and First Aid/CPR/AED certification required (we are able to certify if necessary)
Experience instructing beginning swimmers preferred
Waterfront leadership experience preferred
Enjoy working with children!
Cultural competence and enthusiasm for working with a diverse and dynamic community
Ability to communicate with peers, campers, and parents, including written correspondence and record keeping.
Ability to observe and assess, by sight and sound, dangerous situations and behavior that endangers the camp community.
Physical ability to move independently from place to place throughout a multi-acre, outdoor camp, maintain your cabin area, including routine cleaning chores and assisting campers in need.
Capable of appropriate responses in a variety of situations that arise when working with children including regulation of emotions.
You live on the lake for 10 weeks! That means swimming, tubing, skiing, and sailing
You get to play games and be outside everyday
Room, board, laundry, and utilities are all covered
On days off, counselors are free to explore the town of Grand Rapids, rest on campus, or check-out Mishawaka equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. Staff have access to a camp vehicle on days off to help make visits off campus more accessible.
Availability between May 30 and August 6
Be 18 years of age or older by time of employment
Eligible to work in the United States
Experience instructing beginning sailors in small boat sailing
Experience operating small motor boats in close proximity to other vessels
Experience in small sailboat racing preferred
US Sailing Level 1 Instructor Certification or higher preferred
Safe Powerboat Handling Certification preferred
Enjoy working with children!
Cultural competence and enthusiasm for working with a diverse and dynamic community
Ability to communicate with peers, campers, and parents, including written correspondence and record keeping.
Ability to observe and assess, by sight and sound, dangerous situations and behavior that endangers the camp community.
Physical ability to move independently from place to place throughout a multi-acre, outdoor camp, maintain your cabin area, including routine cleaning chores and assisting campers in need.
Capable of appropriate responses in a variety of situations that arise when working with children including regulation of emotions.
You live on the lake for 10 weeks! That means swimming, tubing, skiing, and sailing
You get to play games and be outside everyday
Room, board, laundry, and utilities are all covered
On days off, counselors are free to explore the town of Grand Rapids, rest on campus, or check-out Mishawaka equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. Staff have access to a camp vehicle on days off to help make visits off campus more accessible.
Foster and atmosphere of safety and comfort for a cabin group of 4-6 campers
Lead a variety of land and water activities
Assist with and/or lead extended overnight trips and other general outdoor/camping activities
Availability between May 30 and August 6
Be 18 years of age or older by time of employment
Eligible to work in the United States
Previous experience working with children preferred
Have an interest in learning the special skills it takes to be a camp counselor
CPR, Wilderness First Aid, Lifeguard, Water Safety Instructor, and other activity certifications preferred
Enjoy working with children!
Cultural competence and enthusiasm for working with a diverse and dynamic community
Ability to communicate with peers, campers, and parents, including written correspondence and record keeping.
Ability to observe and assess, by sight and sound, dangerous situations and behavior that endangers the camp community.
Physical ability to move independently from place to place throughout a multi-acre, outdoor camp, maintain your cabin area, including routine cleaning chores and assisting campers in need.
Capable of appropriate responses in a variety of situations that arise when working with children including regulation of emotions.
You live on the lake for 10 weeks! That means swimming, tubing, skiing, and sailing
You get to play games and be outside everyday
Room, board, laundry, and utilities are all covered
On days off, counselors are free to explore the town of Grand Rapids, rest on campus, or check-out Mishawaka equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. Staff have access to a camp vehicle on days off to help make visits off campus more accessible.
Fishing Instructor
Camp Mishawaka seeks to hire fishing instructors from May 30-August 6th. Under the direction of the program director, the fishing instructors oversee Camp Mishawaka’s fishing program, equipment, and awards, ensuring that the program is conducted in a safe manner, equipment is functional, used properly and stored correctly, and that awards and levels program are implemented in a consistent, transparent fashion.
In most cases fishing instructors will also serve as cabin counselors for cabin groups of 4-6 campers.
Qualifications:
Competencies:
Working Conditions
Riflery Instructor
Camp Mishawaka seeks to hire air riflery instructors from May 30-August 6th. Under the direction of the program director, the air riflery instructors oversee Camp Mishawaka’s air riflery program, equipment, and awards, ensuring that the program is conducted in a safe manner, equipment is functional, used properly and stored correctly, and that awards and levels program are implemented in a consistent, transparent fashion.
In most cases air riflery instructors will also serve as cabin counselors for cabin groups of 4-6 campers.
Qualifications:
Competencies:
Working Conditions
Nurse
Camp Mishawaka, located in Grand Rapids, MN, is seeking a Seasonal Camp Nurse/Nursing Intern for the 2027 season. Founded in 1910, Camp Mishawaka is a traditional residential summer camp and hosts campers from over 30 states and 5 different countries. We are a smaller camp, with a capacity of 80 boys and 80 girls per session, and this allows our staff and administration to know each camper by name, and to take a personal interest in the health and well-being of each child.
Upcoming graduates and 3rd year students are welcome to apply.
What: Work under our RN to manage camper health care needs, including basic first aid, assessment, interacting with local clinic professionals as needed. This is a residential position.
When: June 6th to August 6th, Half Season positions may also be available (4-5 weeks)
Benefits: Room and board are included, and there is a bonus for passing the Board Exam. The nurse is also welcome to participate in camp activities and events, and is able to be part of a team of dedicated youth development and health professionals. Time is provided to study for boards as well as hands-on experience in the field.
Testimonials:
“Camp Mishawaka was the best starting RN position I could have asked for. It helped me acquire and strengthen so many skills like leadership, communication, and organization.” - Testimonial from a 2016 College of St Scholastica graduate.
“This was the perfect way to transition from school to a full-time nursing position.” – Testimonial from 2018 College of St. Scholastica graduate.
Tennis Instructors
Camp Mishawaka seeks to hire tennis instructors from May 30-August 6th. Under the direction of the program director, the tennis instructors oversee Camp Mishawaka’s tennis program, equipment, and awards, ensuring that the program is conducted in a safe manner, equipment is functional, used properly and stored correctly, and that awards and levels program are implemented in a consistent, transparent fashion.
In most cases tennis instructors will also serve as cabin counselors for cabin groups of 4-6 campers.
Qualifications:
Competencies:
Working Conditions
Fitness Instructor
Camp Mishawaka seeks to a fitness instructor from May 30-August 6th. Fitness instructors oversee Camp Mishawaka's fitness and circuit training program, equipment, and awards, ensuring that program is conducted in a safe manner, equipment is functional, used properly and stored correctly and that any awards are distributed in a consistent, transparent fashion.
In most cases fitness instructors will also serve as cabin counselors for cabin groups of 4-6 campers.
Qualifications:
Competencies:
Working Conditions
Head High Ropes Course / Climbing
Camp Mishawaka seeks to high ropes course / climbing instructors from May 30-August 6th. The high ropes course / climbing instructors oversee Camp Mishawaka's climbing wall and high ropes program, equipment, and awards, ensuring that program is conducted in a safe manner, equipment is functional, used properly and stored correctly and that any awards are distributed in a consistent, transparent fashion.
In most cases high ropes course / climbing instructors will also serve as cabin counselors for cabin groups of 4-6 campers.
Qualifications:
Competencies:
Working Conditions
Wilderness Trip Leaders
Camp Mishawaka seeks to hire wilderness trip leaders from May 30-August 6th. Under the direction of the trip director, the trip leaders oversee Camp Mishawaka's wilderness tripping program (including all trip planning and preparations) and ensure that trips are conducted in a safe manner, equipment is functional, used properly and stored correctly, and that any awards are distributed in a consistent, transparent fashion.
Wilderness trip staff have the opportunity to lead trips at iconic Northland locations including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Isle Royale National Park and the Superior Hiking Trail. More about the variety and extent of Mishawaka's tripping program can be found here.
Qualifications:
Competencies:
Working Conditions
Waterfront Director
Camp Mishawaka seeks to hire a Waterfront Director from May 30-August 6th. Under the direction of the Program Director and Camp Director, the Waterfront Director oversees Camp Mishawaka's waterfront program including all waterfront activities, classes, equipment and awards, ensuring that waterfront activities are conducted in a safe manner, equipment is functional, used properly and stored correctly and that the levels for the waterfront programs are implemented and awarded in a consistent, transparent fashion.
The Waterfront Director may also serve as cabin counselor for cabin groups of 4-6 campers.
Qualifications:
Competencies:
Working Conditions
Sailing Instructors
Camp Mishawaka seeks to hire sailing instructors from May 30-August 6th. Under the direction of the head of sailing, the sailing instructors oversee Camp Mishawaka’s sailing program, equipment including a fleet of 15+ sailboats, and awards, ensuring that the program is conducted in a safe manner, equipment is functional, used properly and stored correctly, and that awards and levels program are implemented in a consistent, transparent fashion.
In most cases sailing instructors will also serve as cabin counselors for cabin groups of 4-6 campers.
Qualifications:
Competencies:
Working Conditions
Cabin Counselor
Camp Mishawaka seeks to hire cabin counselors from May 30-August 6th who share a commitment to making a positive difference in the life of a child. Living with a cabin group of campers for up to eight weeks, leading a variety of activities throughout the day, and possibly guiding extended wilderness trips for up to five days, counselors at Mishawaka are provided with true leadership opportunities. All the skills counselors learn (and hone), including critical thinking, collaboration, organization, communication, and creativity, have real world applications, and whether you are considering a career in education or another field, working effectively with people from different backgrounds and areas, as Mishawaka counselors do, provides an experience that you will be able to draw on for years to come.
Essential Responsibilities:
Qualifications:
Competencies:
Working Conditions
How to Apply
Interested candidates should complete our application by clicking on the button below, and we will follow-up with an interview. If you would like additional information prior to applying, you may fill out our brief staff application here, and we will be in touch!
Contact Info
- Peter Myers
- info@campmishawaka.com
- (218) 326-5011
- campmishawaka.com
