Most summer jobs are forgettable: you clock in, clock out, make some money, and by fall you’ve already forgotten your manager’s name. There’s nothing wrong with that — but what if your summer could be more?

What if you spent your summer outside instead of behind a register? What if you made friends you’ll actually keep? What if you went back to campus in August with stories worth telling — and an experience that makes your resume stand out?

That’s what happens when you work at Allaso Ranch.

What Is Allaso Ranch?

Allaso Ranch is a Christian camp and retreat center located on 1,100 acres in the piney woods of East Texas — about two hours east of Dallas. Every summer, we host thousands of kids and students for week-long overnight camps filled with adventure, faith, and the kind of fun that changes lives.

But here’s the thing: none of it happens without our summer staff.

We’re talking about college students just like you — from Texas A&M, Texas Tech, UT Austin, SMU, TCU, Baylor, DBU, Liberty, UNT, and schools across Texas and beyond — who show up every summer ready to lead, serve, and be part of something bigger than themselves.

What Does the Job Look Like?

Summer staff positions typically run from late May through July. We offer both full-summer and partial-summer commitments depending on your availability.

Roles Include:

• Cabin Counselors — Live with a group of campers, lead them through the week, and be the Christ-like example they’ll remember for years
• Activity Staff — Run the zipline, lead horseback rides, lifeguard at the waterpark, facilitate team challenges
• Behind-the-Scenes Roles — Kitchen, facilities, check-in, media team, and more

A Typical Day Might Look Like:

• Morning devotional with your team
• Leading campers through activities (waterpark, archery, high ropes)
• Meals together in the dining hall
• Evening worship and teaching
• Cabin time and late-night conversations
• Repeat (with a day off each week to rest and recharge)

It’s not easy. It’s long days, high energy, and real responsibility. But ask anyone who’s done it — it’s worth it.

Why It’s Worth It

1. It Actually Matters

Most summer jobs are transactional. This one is transformational.

You’ll watch a shy kid come out of their shell. You’ll be there when a student decides to follow Jesus. You’ll have conversations at 11 PM in a cabin that stick with a teenager for the rest of their life.

That’s not an exaggeration. It happens every week.

2. Your Resume Will Thank You

Think about what you’re actually doing: leading a team, managing conflict, communicating with parents, solving problems on the fly, and keeping 10 middle schoolers alive and happy for a week.

That’s leadership. That’s responsibility. And future employers notice.

Whether you’re going into ministry, education, business, healthcare, or anything else — “summer camp counselor” translates into skills that matter.

3. You’ll Make Lifelong Friends

There’s something about spending a summer serving together that bonds people fast. You’ll be surrounded by other college students who care about the same things you do, and by August, you’ll have a crew you’ll stay in touch with for years.

Many of our staff say the friendships they made at Allaso are some of the most important relationships in their lives.

4. It’s Actually Fun

Yes, it’s work. But it’s also a summer at a waterpark, on a zipline, riding horses, playing basketball, and leading campers through experiences you get to enjoy too.

You’re not stuck in a fluorescent-lit breakroom. You’re outside, in community, doing meaningful work — and having a blast while you do it.

5. Paid + Room & Board

Let’s talk logistics: this is a paid position. You’ll earn competitive pay for the summer, and your housing and meals are completely covered while you’re on site.

• No rent
• No groceries
• No commute
• Just show up ready to serve

Do I Have to Be a Ministry Major?

Nope. We’ve had summer staff from every major you can think of — engineering, nursing, business, communications, kinesiology, education, and yes, ministry too.

You don’t need to have all the answers about faith. You don’t need to be a Bible scholar. You just need to:

• Love kids and be willing to invest in them
• Be teachable and ready to grow
• Model what it looks like to follow Jesus authentically

We’ll train you on the rest.

Schools We’d Love to Hear From

We’ve had incredible staff from colleges and universities across Texas and beyond. If you’re a student at any of these schools (or anywhere else), we’d love for you to apply:

• Texas A&M University
• Texas Tech University
• University of Texas at Austin
• SMU (Southern Methodist University)
• TCU (Texas Christian University)
• Baylor University
• Dallas Baptist University (DBU)
• Liberty University
• University of North Texas (UNT)
• UT Dallas
• UT Arlington
• Texas State University
• Houston Baptist University
• Abilene Christian University
• Tarleton State University
• And many more...

No matter where you go to school, if you’re looking for a summer that matters, we want to meet you.

FAQs

Do I need experience to work at a summer camp?

No prior camp experience required. We provide training before the summer begins and support throughout. If you’re willing to learn, we’ll equip you.

How much do summer camp counselors get paid in Texas?

Pay varies by position, but all summer staff receive competitive compensation plus free room and board for the duration of their commitment.

Can I work at Allaso Ranch if I don’t go to church?

Yes. We welcome staff from all backgrounds. What matters most is a willingness to love kids well and be open to growing in your own faith journey.

What if I can only work part of the summer?

We offer both full-summer and partial-summer positions. Let us know your availability and we’ll work with you.

Where is Allaso Ranch located?

We’re in Hawkins, Texas — about 2 hours east of Dallas/Fort Worth on I-20. Easy drive from most Texas schools.

Is housing provided?

Yes. Room and board are fully covered while you’re on site.

Ready to Apply?

Summer 2026 staff applications are open now. If you’re looking for a summer that’s more than a paycheck — one that challenges you, grows you, and lets you be part of something that actually matters — we’d love to have you on the team.

Apply Now