Trailside Discovery Camp is an award-winning 10 week summer camp for local Alaskans ages 5-14 that offers environmental education and high adventure day programs as well as overnight trips that take campers into Alaska’s wilderness. 

Our 2027 Summer Camp season will run from June 1, 2027, through August 6, 2027, with Daily Pop-Up Camp and Kinder Camp daily sessions running August 9th-18th, 2027. In-person staff training will take place May 24-28, 2027, during the week prior to the start of camp. Additional virtual training opportunities will begin in mid-April (dates TBD).

Camp Locations (preferences to be discussed in the interview process but not guaranteed, and all staff should be prepared to travel between sites dependent on staffing needs):

Kincaid Park
2nd Anchorage location TBA
Birchwood Elementary (Eagle River)

Individuals unable to commit to working the full summer are encouraged to apply, and accommodations can be discussed for consideration during interviews with the Camp Director. Manager training is mandatory for new managers and typically takes place the week before in person staff training. Managers are encouraged to arrive early enough to help lead camp staff training sessions. Individuals with prior experience may be able to coordinate makeup training for specific missed training dates after discussion with camp leadership.

Positions Summary

There are two management positions available: site manager and program manager. Please go to our website to read the full job descriptions for each: https://akcentereducationfund.org/trailside-discovery-camp/work-with-us/

The Site Manager is responsible for the overall daily operation of an assigned camp location. This position provides leadership and support to all site staff, oversees camper and staff safety, serves as the primary point of contact for families, and ensures that camp programs are delivered in a safe, organized, and high-quality manner. Site Managers work closely with the Year Round Leadership team, Program Managers, and Logistics Manager to coordinate staff, resources, transportation, communication, and daily operations while fostering a positive and inclusive camp culture.

The Program Manager supports the successful implementation of quality, consistent daily camp programming at their assigned site. This position serves as the primary curriculum and program support lead, ensuring that instructors have the tools, training, supplies, and guidance needed to deliver engaging, safe, and meaningful camp experiences. They also play a key role in developing new environmental education and outdoor recreation activities that strengthen Trailside Discovery Camp's mission of connecting youth to the Alaskan outdoors. Program Managers report directly to the Site Manager and additionally work closely with the Year Round Camp Leadership team to oversee curriculum implementation, staff support, program logistics, and resource management.