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summers at southern

Summer Positions

The 2026 Summer Staff applications are currently available! Camp Counselors and Volunteers are welcome to apply! Please read the information below prior to submitting an application.

Welcome to Summers at Southern, a dynamic coeducational program for rising 3rd-12th graders, hosted on the campus of Southern Preparatory Academy in Camp Hill, Alabama. Our mission is to deliver enriching programs that challenge campers, build skills, and highlight each camper’s strengths.

Why join our team?

Make an Impact
Be a mentor, role model, and leader for young people during some of the most transformative years of their lives.

Fun and Adventure
With 90% of our camp activities outdoors, your summer will be filled with nature, excitement, and lifelong memories.

Diverse Opportunities
Whether you’re into STEM, nature exploration, survival skills, or leadership development, there’s a place for your talents and passions at Summers at Southern

Requirements and Responsibilties

Counselors

We are seeking dedicated Camp Counselors for our Boarding Camps (Southern Survival and Operation LEADERSHIP). Counselors play a key role in ensuring camper safety and creating a positive and supportive camp environment. 

ALL counselors are required to complete a background check prior to starting.

  • Staff Training: June 8 – June 12, 2026 (All staff must be available for training week.)
  • Southern Survival Camp: July 5th – July 11th, 2026
  • Operation LEADERSHIP Camp: July 12th – July 25th, 2026
  • Supervise and facilitate camper activities.
  • Teach and guide various outdoor programs.
  • Assist with preparing for camp events and activities.
  • Instruct campers on daily routines and cleanup tasks.
  • Provide individualized support to campers.
  • Collaborate with camp staff to execute events and activities.
  • Lead and assist campers during on – and off-campus activities.
  • Ensure campers follow camp rules and guidelines.
  • Serve as a mentor and role model for campers.
  • Perform additional tasks as assigned.
  • College student, 18+ years old, with first year coursework completed.
  • Ability to pass a drug test & background check.
  • Skilled in planning, organizing, and leading group activities.
  • Enthusiastic, positive, and energetic attitude.
  • Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills to guide and connect with campers. 
  • Experience working with kids.
  • Prior summer camp or outdoor experience.
  • First Aid, CPR, or Lifeguard Certification.
  • Experience in camping, survival skills, environmental education, JROTC, leadership education, or similar fields
  • $400 per week
  • Room, Board, and Meals provided
  • Laundry Service included
  • Work with Youth
  • Off-Campus Adventures
  • Resume Building Opportunity
  • Lifelong friendships and memories

Application Instructions
Please complete the application in full, and email your resume to summers@southernprepacademy.org once submitted. 

Incomplete applications or applications submitted without a resume will not be reviewed. 

Counselor Application
Volunteers

We are seeking volunteers to support our Day Camps (STEM and Nature’s Wonders). Volunteers may sign up to assist with one camp or both, and must be available for the whole day (8am-5pm) If accepted, volunteers will coordinate with the Camp Director to confirm schedules. 

ALL volunteers are required to complete a background check prior to starting.

  • Staff Training: June 8 – June 12, 2026 (All staff must be available for training week.)
  • STEM Camp: June 15 – June 19, 2026
  • Nature’s Wonders: June 22 – June 26, 2026 
  • Support camp staff during daily activities and programs.
  • Assist with activity setup, organization, and clean-up.
  • Serve as a mentor and role model for campers.
  • Help maintain a safe, welcoming, and organized environment.
  • Follow all camp policies, safety procedures, and staff instructions.
  • Assist with additional tasks as needed to support camp operations.
  • College student, 18+ years old, with first year coursework completed.
  • Ability to pass a drug test & background check.
  • Positive attitude and willingness to work as part of a team.
  • Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Ability to follow directions and camp policies. 
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills when interacting with campers and staff.
  • Experience working with kids.
  • Prior summer camp or outdoor experience.
  • First Aid, CPR, or Lifeguard Certification.
  • Experience in STEM, wildlife, forestry, agriculture, or similar fields.
  • Community service hours.
  • Off-Campus Adventures
  • Resume Building Opportunity
  • Training in youth supervision and camp safety.
  • Lunch provided during volunteer hours.

Application Instructions
Please complete the application in full, and email your resume to summers@southernprepacademy.org once submitted.

Incomplete applications or applications submitted without a resume will not be reviewed. 

Volunteer Application

Explore Our Camps

STEM

Our mission is to foster an environment where curiosity thrives, empowering individuals to explore, discover, and grow through engaging, meaningful learning experiences.

Nature's Wonders

Our mission at Nature's Wonders Camp is to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world by fostering meaningful connections with nature, encouraging exploration.

Southern Survival

The mission of this camp is to teach campers how to adapt to any situation, advance their survival skills through hands-on training, and confidently survive using the knowledge and techniques they’ve learned.

Operation LEADERSHIP

Our mission at Operation LEADERSHIP Camp is to build confidence, spark leadership, and promote teamwork through hands-on exploration of military service and values.