Summer Camp Staff Code of Conduct (Template)
Below is a copy-and-paste Camp Staff Code of Conduct Template you can drop into your handbook or training manual. Everything in brackets [like this] is a placeholder to customize. This is practical guidance, not legal advice—confirm with your accrediting body and local counsel.
Effective: [MM/DD/YYYY] • Applies to: All seasonal and year-round staff, volunteers, and contractors • Policy Contact: [Name/Title, Email/Phone]
1) Our Mission & Values
We serve campers and families with:
Safety: We prevent harm through planning, supervision, and calm, clear action.
Inclusion: We respect all identities and create a sense of belonging.
Integrity: We do the right thing, especially when no one is watching.
2) General Standards of Behavior
Arrive on time, prepared, and fit for duty.
Follow schedules, radio etiquette, and supervisor instructions.
Treat campers, families, colleagues, and partners with courtesy at all times.
Use professional language; no profanity, bullying, or gossip.
3) Safety & Supervision
Know your ratios, zones, and head-count cadence for each activity.
Complete pre-activity checks (equipment, environment, PPE).
Report hazards immediately; stop unsafe activity until corrected.
In an emergency: protect, call, and report (see Incident Flow below).
Incident Flow (post in program spaces):
Ensure immediate safety → 2) Contact [Radio Channel / 911] → 3) Notify [Role] → 4) Document in [System/Form] before end of shift → 5) Debrief within 24 hours.
4) Professional Boundaries with Campers
We maintain healthy, youth-appropriate boundaries at all times.
| Topic | Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| One-on-one | Visible, interruptible settings (“rule of three”) | Secluded 1:1, closed doors, private housing visits |
| Physical contact | Side-hugs, high-fives, activity-appropriate spotting | Lap-sitting, tickling, massages, romantic/sexual contact |
| Communication | Camp channels with supervisor visibility | Personal DMs, late-night texting, sharing private numbers |
| Gifts & favors | Group-wide treats or approved rewards | Exclusive gifts, loans, buying personal items |
| Social media | Follow camp policy; use official accounts only | “Friending” campers or families on personal accounts |
5) Inclusion & Anti-Harassment
Zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment based on any protected characteristic.
Use campers’ and colleagues’ stated names and pronouns.
Report incidents immediately to [Role] or via [Anonymous Channel]. No retaliation.
6) Health & Wellness
Follow medication and health-center protocols; only authorized staff handle meds.
Model hydration, sun protection, rest, and reasonable noise at night.
If you are ill or injured, notify your supervisor and follow return-to-work guidance.
7) Confidentiality & Data
Protect camper records, health info, and contact details.
Share “need-to-know” only, through approved systems.
Photos and stories require parent/guardian media consent and camp approval.
8) Digital & Social Media
Personal phone use only during approved breaks and away from campers.
No posting camper images or stories on personal accounts.
Media inquiries go to [Designated Spokesperson].
9) Substance Use & Impairment
No alcohol, cannabis, or illegal drugs during work, on camp property, or in housing where prohibited.
Arrive unimpaired. Prescription meds must not compromise safety; discuss concerns with [Role/Health Center].
No tobacco, e-cigarettes, or vapes.
10) Property, Equipment, & Facilities
Use tools and spaces as trained; report damage immediately.
Keep cabins, program areas, and vehicles clean and secure.
Lost-and-found and camp funds follow documented procedures.
11) Transportation & Driving (if assigned)
Must have valid license, approved MVR, and camp vehicle training.
Seatbelts for all passengers; no phones while driving.
Complete pre-trip checklist; report incidents immediately.
12) Dress Code & Identification
Wear activity-appropriate clothing and name badge in view.
Closed-toe shoes for active programs; swimwear that allows active supervision.
Branded/approved apparel for family-facing events.
13) Communication with Families & Media
Urgent or sensitive updates flow through [Director/Health Center/Office].
Keep notes factual and timely in [System/Form].
Do not promise confidentiality beyond safety and legal requirements.
14) Conflicts of Interest & Outside Work
Disclose any personal, financial, or familial relationships that could affect decisions.
Do not accept valuable gifts from vendors or families; follow gift policy limits. This includes tips from families.
Outside employment must not conflict with camp duties or rest requirements.
15) Mandatory Reporting & Abuse Prevention
Know your state’s rules and our internal process.
If you suspect abuse or neglect: ensure safety, report immediately to [Role] and authorities per law.
Do not conduct your own investigation; cooperate with designated responders.
16) Timekeeping, Attendance, & Housing (if applicable)
Accurately record time worked and breaks in [System].
Notify supervisor of lateness or absence before shift.
Follow housing norms: quiet hours, visitor rules, cleanliness, food storage.
17) Discipline & Corrective Action
Most issues follow progressive steps: coaching → written warning → separation.
Some violations may result in immediate separation (e.g., abuse, harassment, intoxication on duty, violence, theft).
You may request a review with [Appeals Contact] within [X] days.
18) Acknowledgment
I have read and agree to follow the Staff Code of Conduct. I understand violations may lead to corrective action, up to and including termination.
Name: _________________________ Role: __________________
Signature: ______________________ Date: ___ / ___ / ____
Supervisor: _____________________ Date: ___ / ___ / ____
Quick Customization Checklist
Replace placeholders ([Camp Name], contacts, systems).
Align boundaries, housing, and transportation sections with your site and state rules.
Add ACA or state-specific ratio language and emergency codes.
Link to related policies: Anti-Harassment, Media & Privacy, Medication & First Aid, Incident Reporting, Vehicle Use, Housing, Social Media.
Translate into a one-page “pocket” version for lanyards and a training slide with the Incident Flow.
