WORK AT TAMAKWA
An experience that lasts a lifetime.
A summer on staff at Camp Tamakwa is a uniquely rewarding experience. It offers the opportunity to combine working with children, spending your summer outdoors in the beautiful Algonquin Provincial Park, and meeting people from across the continent and around the world.
What is it like to be staff at Camp Tamakwa?
We think working at camp is pretty awesome, but you don’t have to take our word for it! We asked some of our staff members what they think about working at camp and spending the summer in Canada’s magical Algonquin Provincial Park.
Here’s what they had to say:
A magnet for great talent.
Tamakwa brings together creative people from all over North America and beyond.
Create lasting bonds.
When you work at Tamakwa you’re part of a long-standing family of friends who will stay with you all through your life.
Summers that set you up for success.
Tamakwa provides a wide-open space to develop valuable skills like leadership, creativity and independence.
Join the Tamakwa family
Join the dedicated team that makes the Tamakwa experience unforgettable for campers – while making lasting memories and having the time of your life.
See below for our job descriptions and available positions.
COUNSELLING STAFF
Counsellors are the primary supervisor — “big sister or brother” — of a small group of campers.
Counsellors live with the kids, accompany them to activities, help lead them on canoe trips and other outings, supervise them at meals, and generally look out for their well-being
The Senior Counsellor is integral to creating a safe, nurturing, and fun-filled environment for our campers. SCs lead a group of 8-12 campers through all aspects of camp life, from supervising meals, activities, and camp events to staffing memorable canoe trips. Guiding and mentoring with the support of our dedicated JC’s, our Senior Counsellors oversee cabin life, ensuring each child’s well-being and enjoyment.
Required: Age 19+, Bronze Cross (can be acquired before camp)
Working in tandem with Senior Counsellors, JC’s actively engage in every aspect of cabin life, from overseeing meals, activities, and camp events to staffing memorable canoe trips. Junior Counsellors play a dynamic role in shaping an unforgettable summer, cultivate camaraderie and personal growth within their cabin group, and also work as a specialist on a camp activity.
Requirements: Age 17+, Bronze Cross (can be acquired before camp).
CANOE TRIP LEADERS (TRIPPERS)The Canoe Trip Leader (Tripper) at Camp Tamakwa is responsible for portaging and carrying our beloved tradition; introducing children to the wonders of canoe camping. Trip Leaders will participate on three to five cabin trips each month (2-5 days) and may have the opportunity to assist on one of the camps longer trips (8 – 15 days).
The Canoe Trip Leader (Tripper) at Camp Tamakwa is responsible for portaging and carrying our beloved tradition; introducing children to the wonders of canoe camping. Trip Leaders will participate on three to five cabin trips each month (2-5 days) and may have the opportunity to assist on one of the camps longer trips (8 – 15 days).
Immersed in the beauty of Algonquin Park, Trippers lead campers aged 7-16 on canoe trips lasting 2 to 15 days. Responsible for all aspects of the trip, they ensure safety and well-being. Focusing on teaching paddling and portaging, Trippers provide opportunities for individual challenge, team building, adventure, and a deepened appreciation for nature.
Each Tripper takes charge of 3 to 5 trips per month, including regularly scheduled cabin trips and longer expeditions.
Age 19+, Bronze Cross minimum required, prior experience in leading canoe trips, as well as experience with children. Advance Wilderness First Aid Certification is also required – this can be obtained through camp.
Acting as assistants to Canoe Trip Leaders — with training and leadership provided by the Canoe Trip Director — Trippers-in-Training gain knowledge and skills to plan, prepare, lead, and evaluate the canoe trip experience. Trippers in Training may begin their summer as observers, however, they will gradually take on more responsibility as co-leaders and by the end of the summer they may be leading segments of a trip under the supervision of a thoughtful and trusted advisor.
Experience canoeing and camping outdoors is desirable.
Age 17+, Bronze Cross minimum required.
ACTIVITY LEADERS & SPECIALISTSAre you an expert in one of the many activities we offer at Tamakwa? There are approximately 20 Activity Leaders (ALs) and a multitude of activity specialists at Tamakwa who form an integral part of the camp community. Activity leaders and specialists are not only in charge of the activity, but are also leaders around camp and assist the programming staff with planning and executing evening programs and special camp-wide events.
WATER SPORTS
Join Camp Tamakwa as Swim Director and oversee the safety and fun of our crystal-clear South Tea Lake waterfront. You’ll lead a dedicated team of swim instructors and lifeguards, ensuring effective swim lessons, charting progress, and maintaining a safe environment for all campers.
Your responsibilities include supervising swim tests for campers and staff at the start of each session, as well as during pre-camp training. You’ll also run daily general swim periods, ensuring all safety protocols are followed, and provide supervision during camp-wide events like swim meets, treasure island swims, and the camp triathlon.
As Swim Director, you’ll teach children ages 6-16 how to swim at various levels, following Canadian Lifesaving Society guidelines, and assist with teaching Bronze Cross to CITs as certifications allow. Ideal candidates are 19+, with NLS-Waterfront and Instructor certifications, and a passion for swimming and teaching. This is a chance to make a lasting impact on campers’ aquatic skills in a beautiful, safe, and supportive environment.
Age 19+, NLS-Waterfront and Instructors required.
Canoeing is at the heart of Camp Tamakwa’s legacy, an activity since camp began in 1936. As Canoe Director, you’ll uphold this tradition, teaching the iconic Canadian solo paddling style popularized by Tamakwa co-founder Omer Stringer. Beyond being an accomplished canoeist, you’ll inspire campers to develop their skills, confidence, and appreciation for this time-honored craft.
This role involves managing day-to-day operations at the canoe dock, delivering lessons to campers of all levels, and fostering a love for canoeing through engaging, hands-on instruction. You’ll also lead weekly cookouts for the Voyageur Class, focusing on advanced paddling and outdoor camping skills that highlight the adventure and beauty of Algonquin Park.
The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with a passion for teaching, ensuring that canoeing continues to be a defining and memorable part of every camper’s experience.
Voyageur Canoeist preferred.
Age 19+, Bronze Cross minimum required.
Set sail on a memorable summer at Camp Tamakwa, where sailing has been part of our tradition since 1936. As Sailing Director, you’ll lead a dynamic sail dock, creating a safe, fun, and educational environment where campers can learn to sail and build confidence on the water.
The ideal candidate is an experienced sailor with a passion for teaching and a flexible, enthusiastic approach to camp life. In addition to teaching sailing techniques, you’ll manage the safety boat (Put-Put), requiring a PCOC boating license and experience driving small boats.
This role combines responsibility and adventure, ensuring campers of all skill levels feel supported while fostering a love for sailing and the natural beauty of Algonquin Park.
Requirements: Age 19+, PCOC, Bronze Cross
Explore the pristine waters of South Tea Lake as our Kayak Director! You’ll plan and implement an engaging kayaking program, providing instruction and ensuring safety for campers of all skill levels. This role involves creating fun and instructive programming for five periods a day, teaching campers the fundamentals of kayaking in a safe and supportive environment.
Applicants must have personal kayaking experience and a passion for teaching children how to kayak.
Aage 19+, Bronze Cross minimum required.
Windsurfing on South Tea Lake is an exciting and rewarding experience for campers of all levels. As Windsurf Director, you’ll lead this popular program, offering expert instruction and guidance as campers learn to windsurf, work toward mastering the legendary Force 5 or try taking their skills to the next level with the Airbender.
South Tea is the perfect setting for learning and improving, with big winds and waves that provide a dynamic, safe, and fun environment. Whether campers are starting out or refining their technique, they’ll love the independence of navigating the lake with a sail.
Candidates should have windsurfing experience, a passion for teaching, and a PCOC boating license to manage the safety boat (Put-Put). This role offers the chance to inspire campers, create unforgettable moments, and share your love of windsurfing in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Requirements: Age 19+ , Bronze Cross, PCOC
The Stand-Up Paddleboard Director at Camp Tamakwa leads an exciting and fast-growing waterfront activity that gets kids of all ages out on the sparkling waters of South Tea Lake.
SUP has soared in popularity for its blend of adventure, balance, and fitness, making it an accessible and fun way for campers to connect with nature. In this role, you’ll teach campers essential paddleboarding skills, lead group paddles, and inspire confidence on the water, all while fostering a love for the outdoors. Set against the stunning backdrop of Algonquin Park, you’ll create unforgettable experiences that combine skill-building with the sheer joy of gliding across the lake.
Age 19+, Bronze Cross minimum required
Join Camp Tamakwa’s waterfront team as a Swim Specialist, combining the joy of teaching swimming with the unique experience of cabin life. Spend your days at our picturesque swim dock, instructing campers aged 6 to 16 in swimming techniques and lifesaving skills, in alignment with the Canadian Lifesaving Society standards. Beyond lessons, contribute to the camp community by lifeguarding, running daily general swims, and participating in iconic camp events such as triathlons, treasure island swims, all-day swim meets, and Colour War. As part of the cabin staff, you’ll also live with campers, enjoying the best of camp life.
Age 17+, NLS and Instructors required.
LAND SPORTS
Motivate and teach our campers of all ages a wide range of sports, including intracamp and intercamp competitions.
Age 19+.
Help Campers develop their skills in various field sports, such as; Football, Soccer, Baseball, Ultimate Frisbee, Rugby, etc.
Organise and Coach sporting events, such as, camp wide tournaments and Intercamp.
The Archery Director at Camp Tamakwa leads an exciting and focused program on our scenic range at Voyageur Point, offering campers the opportunity to learn and develop their skills in this classic sport. You’ll teach campers of all ages the fundamentals of archery, including proper technique, safety, and precision, while fostering a sense of discipline and confidence.
From introducing beginners to their first bullseye to challenging advanced archers to refine their aim, you’ll create a program that balances fun with skill-building. Set against the natural beauty of Algonquin Park, your work will help campers sharpen their focus and enjoy the thrill of hitting the mark.
Age 19+,
Join Camp Tamakwa as Basketball Director and lead our program on the full-size Sport Court, affectionately known as “The Plat-forum.” You’ll oversee activity periods, teach fundamental basketball skills, and inspire aspiring players to elevate their game.
Your role includes organizing fun and competitive tournaments and assembling Tamakwa’s finest to represent the camp in intercamp competitions, including the annual Nate Huffman Memorial Tournament, which Tamakwa proudly won in 2024. From skill-building drills to high-energy games, you’ll create a program that fosters teamwork, confidence, and a love for the sport.
This position is ideal for someone with basketball coaching experience and a passion for helping young athletes grow, both on and off the court.
Age 19+.
Coach our aspiring hockey players on our full-size Sport Court roller hockey rink.
Age 19+.
he Volleyball Director at Camp Tamakwa brings energy and expertise to our one-of-a-kind beach volleyball court, nestled in the heart of Algonquin Park. In this role, you’ll teach campers the fundamentals of volleyball, coach them to develop their skills, and lead activity periods filled with fun and engaging games. For younger campers, you’ll introduce Newcomb, a volleyball variation where players catch and throw the ball, making the sport accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
Beyond daily sessions, you’ll assemble and coach Tamakwa’s finest volleyball players, preparing them to compete in intercamp tournaments and showcasing their skills. From casual matches to exciting competitions, you’ll create a vibrant volleyball culture that builds teamwork, sportsmanship, and a love for the game in campers of all ages and abilities.
Age 19+.
The Fitness Director at Camp Tamakwa inspires campers to embrace health and wellness through dynamic and engaging fitness activities. From energizing aerobics sessions and yoga on the slope overlooking the lake to high-energy fitness classes designed for all skill levels, you’ll lead programs that make staying active fun and accessible. With a focus on building strength, flexibility, and confidence, you’ll motivate campers to develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.
This role calls for someone with boundless energy and a passion for getting kids excited about fitness, all while fostering a supportive and positive environment. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Algonquin Park, you’ll combine movement, mindfulness, and the joy of being outdoors to create a truly unforgettable summer.
Age requirement: 19+
Join Camp Tamakwa as our Pickleball Activity Leader! With our brand-new pickleball court installed in 2024, you’ll lead engaging, skill-building sessions for campers of all ages and abilities. Your role will focus on fostering a love for this fast-growing sport, teaching fundamental skills, techniques, and strategies while emphasizing sportsmanship and teamwork.
As a Pickleball Activity Leader, you’ll create a safe and inclusive environment where campers can challenge themselves, build confidence, and enjoy the game. Your passion for pickleball and experience working with children will inspire a love for active living that extends beyond the court.
This role is perfect for someone with pickleball experience, a strong ability to teach, and a knack for connecting with kids.
Age 19+
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
The Outdoor Fun Director at Camp Tamakwa leads the charge in fostering a deep connection between campers and the natural world. Rooted in the breathtaking wilderness of Algonquin Park, this role focuses on outdoor education, teaching camping skills, survival techniques, and environmental awareness.
From guiding campers in setting up tents and building fires to helping them understand the ecosystem surrounding them, you’ll create immersive experiences that blend fun with valuable life skills. The role combines hands-on instruction with a passion for nature, offering campers a chance to explore and appreciate the beauty and adventure of the great outdoors.
Requirements: 19+ , Bronze Cross
The Ropes Director at Camp Tamakwa oversees an incredible ropes course set amidst the towering trees of Algonquin Park. This role involves leading high and low ropes elements, a thrilling zip line, and a challenging climbing wall, creating unforgettable adventures for campers all summer long. With a focus on safety, teamwork, and personal growth, you’ll guide campers through experiences that build confidence and foster a sense of accomplishment. Training and certifications are provided at camp, ensuring you’re fully prepared to lead this exciting program.
As a Ropes Specialist at Camp Tamakwa, you’ll assist in delivering thrilling and rewarding experiences on our climbing wall, high and low ropes elements, and zip line, all nestled in the stunning forests of Algonquin Park.
Working closely with the Ropes Director, you’ll help ensure the safety and success of each activity while fostering teamwork and confidence among campers. Beyond the ropes course, you’ll live with campers as part of the cabin staff, fully immersing yourself in the fun and community of camp life. Ropes training is provided at camp, with belay experience preferred.
At Camp Tamakwa, fishing offers a unique opportunity for campers to slow down, connect with nature, and experience the tranquility of Algonquin Park. As Fishing Director, you’ll oversee this cherished activity, guiding campers through the fundamentals of fishing while fostering patience, appreciation for the natural world, and respect for the environment.
Ideal candidates have fishing experience, enjoy working with children, and bring a calm, approachable demeanor. You’ll create a safe and serene atmosphere where kids can learn proper techniques, appreciate local fish species, and discover the joy of reeling in a catch—all while enjoying moments of quiet reflection by the water.
Age 19+, Bronze Cross minimum required.
CREATIVE ARTS
Bring creativity to life as the Arts & Crafts Director at Camp Tamakwa! In this dynamic role, you’ll oversee the bustling arts and crafts area, creating engaging programming that inspires campers to explore a variety of materials and techniques. From painting and beading to designing custom projects, you’ll help campers discover their artistic talents while having fun.
In addition to leading daily activity periods, you’ll maintain an organized and welcoming space, ensuring all supplies are ready for creative exploration. You’ll also play a vital role in facilitating special activities, such as assisting with event decor or opening the studio for campers to make signs for trip returns and other camp celebrations.
Age 19+
Shape creativity and memories as the Clay/Pottery Director at Camp Tamakwa! In this hands-on role, you’ll guide campers of all ages in exploring the art of pottery, from hand-building techniques to wheel-throwing, helping them craft unique creations they’ll cherish forever.
As director, you’ll plan and lead engaging daily activity periods, teaching campers foundational skills while encouraging their artistic expression. You’ll also oversee the safe operation of pottery equipment, including kilns and wheels, and ensure that the studio is a welcoming and inspiring space for all.
Age 19+
Step into the spotlight as Drama Director at Camp Tamakwa! Each summer, you’ll cast, produce, and execute four musicals starring campers aged 7-15. From rehearsals to curtain call, you’ll lead an exciting program that fosters creativity, teamwork, and self-expression.
Drama at Tamakwa is a beloved activity that engages campers of all ages and talent levels, offering everyone a chance to shine. Whether helping a first-time performer overcome stage fright or guiding seasoned actors to new heights, you’ll create an environment where every camper feels valued and inspired.
Beyond the stage, the Drama Director plays a vital role in building confidence and lifelong memories for participants, while entertaining the entire camp community with unforgettable performances. With your passion for theater and ability to connect with children, you’ll bring magic to the Tamakwa stage all summer long.
Age 19+
Music is at the heart of Camp Tamakwa, and the Piano Director plays a key role in bringing it to life. Working closely with the Drama Director, you’ll provide musical direction and accompaniment for four summer musicals, helping campers showcase their talents on stage.
Beyond the plays, the Piano Director contributes to the rhythm of camp life, playing the daily national anthem, setting the tone for morning meditation, and accompanying events like talent shows and camp sing-alongs. Your music will inspire campers, enhance traditions, and bring the camp community together.
This role requires a love of working with children, a high level of piano proficiency, and the ability to create a supportive and fun environment where campers can grow in confidence and creativity.
Age 19+
Lights, camera, action! As Camp TV/Video Director, you’ll be at the center of the action, creating engaging, fun, and educational programming that brings Tamakwa’s stories to life. Working with campers, you’ll help them learn the art of filmmaking, guiding them as they plan, film, and edit their own videos.
In addition to camper projects, you’ll capture the magic of camp’s special events and milestones, including trip returns, camp plays, and memorable celebrations. Your work will culminate in the creation of an end-of-summer recap video that preserves the highlights of the season for the entire Tamakwa community.
This role is perfect for someone with a passion for storytelling, technical skills in video production, and a love of working with children.
Age 19+
Are you passionate about music and eager to share your talents with young learners? Camp is looking for someone passionate about Music & Audio Recording to lead creative and hands-on musical activities. This flexible position is shaped by your unique expertise—whether you excel in teaching guitar, vocal performance, or introducing campers to audio recording and music production.
Past staff have shared their skills in instrumental instruction, vocal performance, and songwriting, helping campers explore new musical horizons. In this role, you’ll inspire creativity, foster confidence, and help campers develop a lifelong love for music through engaging lessons and activities tailored to their interests and abilities.
Capture the magic of camp through photography. Document camp events such as; activity periods, camp wide programming, camper triathlons, surf and sail all days, intercamp, and much more!
The Woodshop Director oversees Camp Tamakwa’s bustling woodshop, guiding campers in creating unique, handcrafted projects. From clocks and games to bespoke items imagined by the campers themselves, this role combines hands-on teaching with a focus on creativity and skill-building.
Throughout the summer, the Woodshop Director emphasizes the importance of safety while introducing campers to a variety of woodworking techniques. Each project is an opportunity for campers to explore their imagination, build confidence, and experience the satisfaction of bringing their ideas to life in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Age 19+
The Woodshop Specialist works alongside the Woodshop Director to support Camp Tamakwa’s vibrant woodshop, helping campers bring their creative visions to life. From assisting with project preparation to providing hands-on guidance, you’ll play a key role in ensuring campers feel supported as they craft clocks, games, and other unique projects.
This role focuses on creating a safe and engaging environment, helping campers develop woodworking skills and confidence under the Woodshop Director’s leadership. As a specialist, you’ll assist with maintaining tools and materials, setting up and tidying workstations, and offering individual instruction to campers as they tackle their projects.
With an eye for detail and a passion for creativity, the Woodshop Specialist helps ensure that each camper’s woodshop experience is fun, educational, and inspiring.
Age 17+
Inspire campers and staff to use their investigative journalism and creative writing skills to document camp events and their personal experiences. Articles written during the summer will be used to produce camp’s annual newspaper, “The South Tea Echo”.
MEDICAL TEAM / CLINIC
Working with a rotating team of doctors, the camp Tamakwa medical team hold key roles in allowing the camp to run safely and smoothly throughout the summer.
The Camp Nurse at Camp Tamakwa takes care of the entire camp community. Collaborating closely with our Nursing Assistants and Camp Doctor, the nurse oversees all operations of our Clinic , keeping it clean, well-stocked, and organized.
From dispensing medications to maintaining records, the Camp Nurse is pivotal in creating a safe and nurturing environment for campers and staff alike.
The Camp Nurse must be a registered nurse (RN, RPN, or graduating nursing student) with a passion for children and the outdoors.
Age 19+
The Assistant Camp Nurse at Camp Tamakwa supports the Camp Nurse and camp doctor(s) in ensuring the well-being and safety of all campers and staff. This position is an excellent opportunity for nursing students enrolled in a Canadian nursing program, offering valuable hands-on experience in a dynamic camp setting.
Candidates for the Health Care Assistant position should be enrolled in a nursing program and working towards their RN/RPN license.
Age 17+
CAMP OFFICE
Hello, hello, hello, hello. A welcoming demeanour, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask effectively are key components.
Our Summer Office Staff plays a pivotal role in camp’s daily operations. This role involves a wide range of tasks, ensuring the smooth flow of communication and logistics. From being the initial point of contact for parents and visitors, to providing basic care and assistance to campers in need, the Summer Office team’s contributions are vital.
Summer Office staff also assist the programming team with various tasks, including printing and organization. Keeping camp on schedule, coordinating staff sign-ins/outs, and ensuring electronics are securely stored on staff days off are crucial tasks, so it’s importat that our Office Staff have an eye for detail. Given the camp’s boat-only accessibility, Summer Office Staff plays a pivotal role in coordinating transportation for both people and supplies. The ability to multitask and maintain confidentiality is paramount in this role.
Age 17+
The Year Round Office Team Member is the foundation of operations at Camp Tamakwa. Possessing a cheerful disposition, keen attention to detail, and adept problem-solving abilities, this role thrives on these essential qualities. Administrative experience is a valued asset.
Our Office Staff plays a pivotal role in the camp’s daily operations, and supports the directors in various administrative capacities. This role involves a wide range of tasks, ensuring the smooth flow of communication and logistics. From being the initial point of contact for parents and visitors, to keeping camp running on time, to providing basic care and assistance to campers in need over the summer, this role’s contributions are vital.
Over the summer, our office staff also assist the programming team with various tasks, including printing and organization. Keeping camp on schedule, coordinating staff sign-ins/outs, and ensuring electronics are securely stored on staff days off are crucial tasks, so it’s importat that our Office Staff have an eye for detail. Given the camp’s boat-only accessibility, Summer Office Staff plays a pivotal role in coordinating transportation for both people and supplies. The ability to multitask and maintain confidentiality is paramount in this role.
In the camp off-season, the role remains instrumental in administrative operations, including managing registration and payments, answering the phone and fielding questions, providing support at events, and facilitating data entry tasks.
Age 19+
MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS
It takes a lot of wonderful people to keep camp running. From the incredible transportation crew, to the night watchman who keeps everyone safe, to the maintenance and janitorial teams who keep everything working – it takes a village to run a summer camp!
The Maintenance Director is the linchpin of Tamakwa’s operational efficiency. This role demands a unique blend of construction expertise and strong leadership. It encompasses a range of tasks including carpentry, mechanical, electrical, property upkeep, and plumbing work. Moreover, it requires adept problem-solving skills to navigate nature-related challenges.
The ideal candidate demonstrates a deep understanding of maintenance techniques, proficiency in using mechanical equipment, and the ability to excel in varied seasonal conditions. Responsibilities include leadership and oversight of the maintenance team, carpentry projects, mechanical and electrical maintenance, property upkeep, plumbing tasks, equipment proficiency, and adaptability to different seasonal conditions.
The Maintenance team is at the heart of Tamakwa’s operational efficiency. This role encompasses a range of tasks including carpentry, mechanical, electrical, property upkeep, and plumbing work. Moreover, it requires adept problem-solving skills to navigate nature-related challenges.
The ideal candidate demonstrates a deep understanding of maintenance techniques, proficiency in using mechanical equipment, and the ability to excel in varied seasonal conditions. Responsibilities include working as a collaborative member of the maintenance team, carpentry projects, mechanical and electrical maintenance, property upkeep, plumbing tasks, equipment proficiency, and adaptability to different seasonal conditions.
“Freeze, you’re busted!” – The late great John Fiddes
The Night Watchman is responsible for the safety of campers and staff. They ensure that no one unauthorized comes into camp, and watch over camp during the hours the campers are asleep; ensuring that all campers remain in their cabins , locking and unlocking of the staff phone, emptying the garbage after staff snack, helping with the cleaning of the dining hall, ensuring all fires have been extinguished, turning off all lights that have been left on and the occasional the restocking of the main camp bathrooms.
Applicants must be able to work by themselves and adjust to working night shifts throughout camp season.
As we say at camp, it’s important to leave the campsite cleaner than you found it. The Janitor at Camp Tamakwa plays a pivotal role in maintaining the camp’s pristine environment. This hands-on position requires strong teamwork, efficient time management, and the ability to work independently. Our janitorial team plays a crucial role in a clean and comfortable environment for 300 campers while supporting the smooth operation of camp life. Janitorial responsibilities include daily cleaning rotations for washrooms, the dining hall, and waste removal around camp.
Additionally, janitors may assist the Maintenance and Transportation teams as needed, managing waste removal, performing repairs, and maintaining the campsite to the highest standards of cleanliness and functionality. Camp Janitors must demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility, flexibility, and a solid work ethic. They should work well both independently and as part of a team and enjoy being in an environment surrounded by children.
Previous experience in cleaning or janitorial roles is advantageous, and a willingness to participate in provided training for equipment operation is highly valued.
The Camp Driver at Camp Tamakwa plays a vital role in keeping camp life running smoothly. This position requires a responsible, safety-conscious individual with strong time management skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Camp Drivers are primarily responsible for transporting supplies, equipment, and packages between camp and the nearest town. This includes regular trips to pick up food, camp orders, and essential items that support the day-to-day needs of our community. In addition, drivers may be called upon to transport staff or campers to and from local destinations, appointments, or nearby transportation hubs.
This role is ideal for someone who is comfortable spending time on the road, takes pride in representing Camp Tamakwa in the wider community, and is always ready to lend a hand wherever needed. When not driving, Camp Drivers may assist with other camp operations, including supporting maintenance or transportation logistics.
All applicants must be at least 21 years old, hold a valid driver’s license, and have a clean driving record. A calm, flexible attitude, good communication skills, and a team-first mindset are essential. Familiarity with driving in rural or remote areas is an asset.
Previous experience in a similar role is helpful, but not required.
The Excursions Coordinator at Camp Tamakwa is responsible for planning and executing off-site adventures for campers in Algonquin Park and beyond. From day hikes to activities like treetop trekking, this position is perfect for someone who thrives on logistics, enjoys the outdoors, and is passionate about creating meaningful camper experiences.
The Excursions Coordinator is responsible for organizing and scheduling camp outings, including booking transportation, managing gear and supplies, coordinating with staff, and ensuring all safety protocols are followed. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt plans when weather or conditions change. (*Note that this job does NOT include canoe trips, which are managed by our Trip Director.)
This role is ideal for someone who is comfortable spending time on the road and trail, takes pride in representing Camp Tamakwa in the wider community, and is always ready to lend a hand wherever needed. When not coordinating excursions, this team member may assist with other camp operations, including transportation, or supporting program areas.
All applicants must be 21 years of age or older and hold a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record. Experience coordinating logistics in a camp or outdoor setting is an asset, as is familiarity with Algonquin Park.
KITCHEN STAFF
Our wonderful chef, Phil, is always looking for people passionate about food – and the outdoors – to join his summer team.
STAFF FAQS
This is not your typical summer job.
If you have any questions you didn’t see answered here, click on the link below.
In Algonquin Park, Ontario, 175 miles (280 kilometers) north of Toronto (2.5 hour drive).
It is a provincial park, established as a wildlife preserve in 1893, and is one of the largest recreational areas in North America with 3,000 square miles of forests and 2,000 charted lakes. Algonquin is the most celebrated canoe trip area on any continent. Families travel from around the world to go camping in Algonquin and for us, we’re lucky have it as our backyard.
Trying to pinpoint Tamakwa’s appeal to three generations of campers and staff is no easy task. Tamakwa has been called a “people camp”. While the physical facility is top notch in every way, Tamakwa’s magic has always been the intangible quality of warmth and camaraderie among the camp family. That’s what we are, a family. Tamakwa is a small intimate place where everyone knows each other and we love to welcome new members to our family. Above all, Tamakwa is known for its spirit. Singing, cheering, and traditional values of camping are the mainstays of our camp life. In our minds, these values provide an important balance to the highly technological lifestyles of today’s urban youth.
Tamakwa provides a place where young people can grow and develop both individually and collectively; to learn the skills of every day living and giving; develop positive physical, emotional, and ethical values and habits through the day to day example of experienced and highly motivated adults; and to learn by real experience the worth and value of one’s self and of others. And one more sentence… to do ALL this in a nurturing secure environment, situated in a pristine wilderness setting where they learn to appreciate the wonders of nature.
Boys and girls aged 7 – 16. A special Junior Tamakwan program is offered for 1st, 2nd and 3rd graders. Our camp accommodates 250-275 children each session.
Camp is primarily comprised of Canadians and Americans. The Canadians are mostly from Toronto, but also from Montreal, Ottawa, Windsor, London, Hamilton, and other communities. The Americans are predominantly from the Detroit area, with groups of campers from Buffalo, Rochester, Ohio, New York, California, Chicago, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, and all points in between. Tamakwans also come from Mexico, Israel, France, Italy, Turkey, England, Belgium, and Spain.
Two of the five daily activity periods are organized in cabin groups, as are the canoe trips and many other activities. The remaining three periods are individual choice. Our scheduling approach provides every camper equal exposure and access to each camp activity. The individual choice periods allow campers to pursue their favorite activities. Every period is scheduled and every camper and staff member has a place to be. Free play periods are before and after dinner. So, the hours of the day tilt in favor of structure, although there is ample time for campers to do their own thing. The younger campers are given more direction and supervision in the use of their free time.
Tamakwa is well-known for its special “All Day Programs” incorporating a creative theme with team competition in all camp skills, sports, and creativity. These special programs begin and end with a spectacular surprise presentation/introduction called a “Break”, and they are secretly scheduled in each camp session. Staff contribute to these special programs by running activities, dressing up and sometimes working in a group to plan and present them.
Full-time camp nurses and a physician are in residence. We have our own health center with daily “sick-call” and an infirmary. The nearest hospital is 30 minutes away in Huntsville, and is a new and modern facility, which has competently serviced all the area camps for many years.
Well, according to a TORONTO STAR food columnist a few years ago, it’s very good. Tamakwa’s kitchen is operated by a professional catering service. The food is prepared on-premises and breads and baked goods are homemade. The three daily meals have three courses each. The menu has been designed with the utmost consideration for nutritional balance, variety, and children’s tastes. While the regular menu often includes meat, an alternative menu is available for vegetarians. In addition, a fresh fruit snack is served daily, as well as a light snack before bed. We eat family style, everyone in the dining hall at one time. One morning a week, we have a sleep-in and a fantastic buffet brunch is served.
Everyone lives in cabins, substantial wood cottages with electricity. There are bathroom facilities (we call them “biffies”) in all of the girls’ cabins and in those housing the youngest and oldest boys. The middle range boys share the use of a central biffy or community bathroom facilities in the vicinity of their cabins. The cabins have been the focal point of a major rebuilding program begun in 1982. Since that time, we have restored or totally replaced every camper cabin.
Counselors and some Specialists live in cabins with campers. There are between 2 and 4 Counselors/Specialists in a camper cabin and their quarters are partitioned from the campers to afford a degree of privacy. Activity Leaders, Trippers and some Specialists live in staff cabins with between 2 and 6 staff living in a cabin together. Most staff cabins have private bathrooms.
Most of the campers and staff are Jewish, but many are not. We are one big family where everyone feels perfectly at home. Traditionally, we say grace at meals and have a liberal Friday night observance. Friday night speeches, as we call them, are of a creative non-worship nature… usually reflecting on a particular theme such as friendship, nature, cooperation, etc. It’s our “time-out” from the busy week to have a quiet evening. The nicest part about these contemplative services is the camp family assembling together on our “Slope” overlooking the spectacular view of South Tea Lake.
Tamakwa is an active, participating, and accredited member of the Ontario Section of the Canadian Camping Association, the Ontario Camps Association. Tamakwa’s directors are accreditation inspectors for the Ontario Camps Association.