6 Perfect Day Off Ideas as a Summer Camp Counsellor
Explore Local towns nearby
Most camps are located near beautiful, quaint Canadian towns that are definitely worth exploring unless your camp is in a super remote area. In these towns, you may find cinemas, ice cream parlours, thrift stores, and coffee shops, all perfect for days off and shared adventures with your campmates.
Spend time in nature
You might think the last thing you'd want is more outdoor time, but experiencing nature without responsibility for others is completely different. And when surrounded by some of the world's most stunning views, it's impossible to resist. Plus, spending time outdoors is fantastic for your mental health and wellbeing. Find a hiking trail, a lake for swimming, or a cute spot for a picnic. Thank us later! 🫡
The Sacred Walmart Trip
No list of camp counsellor day off ideas would be complete without mentioning a Walmart trip! A day off is the perfect time to stock up on essentials, snacks, and those small luxuries that make camp life sweeter. The trip there with your co’s—windows down, music up—is its own mini adventure in itself!
Where will your summer take you?
Connect with people back home
Take advantage of your downtime to catch up with your favourite people. Video chat, do a post on socials, or write a letter home. Free time at camp is rare, so make the most of it. Connecting with home can be a huge help when you’re dealing with homesickness or culture shock.
Self-care day
Camp life is demanding, so your day off is a great chance to practice some self-care. Sleep in (you deserve it!), take a shower (that's longer than 3 minutes), get lost in a book, or do something you enjoy. If you'd like to do something active at camp, like swim in the lake, play tennis, or use the gym (if there is one at your camp), just be sure to get permission from your camp director first. The key is to focus on fully recharging your energy in whatever way feels best for you.
After Camp Travel Planning
If you’re unsure about your post-camp plans, your days off are ideal for brainstorming and planning. Many other counsellors will be in the same boat, making it a great time to share ideas and find travel buddies. The most spontaneous plans make the best adventures!
Whatever you choose, just remember, camp will still be there tomorrow, bugs, s'mores, and all. Your day off is an opportunity to recharge your batteries so you can return to camp ready to handle whatever chaos awaits. You've got this!
