The 2026 Dane County 4-H Camp Counselor Applications are now open (links below) and we encourage you to apply! Youth in Grades 9-12 can apply to be summer camp counselors.

Counselor and Junior Director Applications Due Date: February 9, 2026

Counselors will help youth will experience fun camp activities, crafts, field games, campfire, swimming, nature walks, games and more. They will encourage youth to connect with the outdoors, try new activities, and make new friends.

Dane County 4-H Camp Sessions* – Upham Woods, WI Dells dates:

• Camp 1 – July 22-25, 2026 (Campers in Grades 3-5)
• Camp 2 – July 25-28, 2026 (Campers in Grades 6-8)

*Counselors will attend one of the sessions.

New Counselor Requirements:

• Must have completed grade 9 in 2026
• No experience as a counselor at Dane County 4-H Camp
• Attend required trainings listed in application
• Counselor Job Description

Returning Counselor/Junior Director Requirements:

• Prior experience as a counselor at Dane County 4-H Camp
• Junior Director applicants must have completed grade 12 in 2026
• Attend required trainings listed in application
• Counselor Job Description
• Junior Director Job Description

To apply:

• Review the questions in the application and prepare answers before completing the application.
• Complete and submit the New Counselor Application or Returning Counselor/Junior Director Application by February 9, 2026
• Confirm references are submitted by February 9, 2026 via the Online Reference Link
  • New Counselors = 2 completed references – Share this Online Reference Link
  • Returning Counselors/Junior Director = No references needed
• Schedule interview by February 9, 2026

Selection for 2026 4H camp counselors will be based upon:

• Quality of application (review the questions on the application and formulate answers before completing application)
• Quality of interview
• Online References

*References should be from 4H leaders or other adults. Do not use family members, camp committee members, or Dane County Extension 4H staff.

**The camp committee maintains a high standard of selection criteria when choosing counselors. Please be mindful of this when completing your application and preparing for your job-like interview.

Reach out with questions – 4Hinfo@danecounty.gov

More information on Dane County 4-H Camp