My friends counted the days until school ended, but I counted the days until campfire songs began. Packing my bag, meeting cabin leaders, and settling into a bunk were traditions I looked forward to every year. But as I’ve gotten older, camp has become more than just s’mores and songs. It’s become a place that has shaped who I am and how I see others.

Through my time at a Salvation Army summer camp, my perspective has grown in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve seen the challenges many kids carry, but I’ve also seen their resilience. More than anything, I’ve seen what happens when someone feels safe, known, and cared for. Camp creates that kind of space and in it, I’ve come to better understand what it means that “we love because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19, NIV). 

When I first stepped into a staff role at camp, I thought I was prepared. But nothing really prepares you for the stories you’ll hear or the quiet strength you’ll witness. One afternoon at the playground, I spent time talking with a camper about simple things: family, favorite foods, and even my dogs. At the end of the day, they handed me a drawing with every aspect we had talked about and a small pink heart in the corner.

It was simple, but it meant everything. That moment wasn’t about the drawing; it was about trust. It was about connection. It reminded me that showing up, listening, and being present can matter more than anything we say or do. In a lot of ways, it helped me understand God’s love as steady, personal, and always reaching toward us.

That’s why working at camp matters. It’s not just about leading activities or keeping campers busy. It’s about creating moments where people feel seen and valued and where they can begin to experience God’s love in a real way.

Over time, camp has also shaped my own faith. Being away from the distractions of everyday life and surrounded by creation gives me space to slow down and refocus. I’ve learned what it looks like to be still and recognize God at work, even in the smallest moments.

Serving has also opened my eyes to things I used to take for granted. For some campers, things like swimming, eating regular meals, or choosing a snack at the canteen are brand new experiences. Watching their joy has changed the way I see everyday life and reminded me to be grateful for what I have.

Camp has a way of bringing people together through shared experiences that are beyond comparison to everyday life. It pushes you to grow with patience and to care for people who may come from completely different backgrounds than you. And somewhere in all of that, you start to see people the way God does: not defined by their circumstances, but by their worth.

I still have that drawing. It reminds me that even the smallest moments can have a lasting impact, and that choosing to care can change someone’s life.

This was just one aspect of my summer that really struck my heart, and taught me to learn what it truly means to love others. The decision to work at a Salvation Army summer camp will be a decision filled with no regrets. God will use whatever you offer to Him for His glory, and the impact that you have can last for generations. Make the decision to apply to work at camp this summer. It will change your life.

By Riley J. Parker

What advice do you have for a new camper?

“Everyone feels nervous on day one of camp, even the people who look confident. Ask people questions: where they are from, what activities they like, what they do back home for fun, etc. Being curious and showing interest in someone is the fastest way to connect.” — Captain Kelsey Bridges, Deeper

“Be bold and courageous. I know that it may sound a bit repetitive, and at times, that is something we do not want to hear when we are facing moments of something new, scary, or uncomfortable. But as an adult in her 20s, this is something I wish I had kept telling myself as a young girl. Being bold does not mean having to stand out, but it means to be confident in who you are. Being courageous does not mean you have to the one saving the day, but be courageous to try new things, to explore and connect, in whichever way that applies to you.” — Genesis De Jesus, book reviewer

What advice do you have for someone who’s working at camp for the first time? 

“Be prepared to do more than you signed up for. Camp staff is one big team, and you’re going to be called upon to do stuff outside of your job description, just like real life.” — David Reardon, Journalist and video game reviewer  

What’s the quickest way to make friends at camp? 

“Smile and say hi to people. Especially the campers off to the side, or at the back of the group. A smile truly goes a long way, and saying hello just shows interest. Remember that it is normal and okay if your smile and ‘hi’ do not get reciprocated. Sometimes people are shy. And it is also okay if a conversation gets awkward; not every conversation has to go perfectly! Honestly, an awkward laugh can really help lighten the mood and being honest about feeling nervous can help bring down the pressure of having to have a life-altering conversation. Be yourself, smile, and say hi!” — Genesis De Jesus, book reviewer