Teen Leadership at Adirondack Camp: The Journey from Camper to Counselor
For many Adirondack campers, the CIT summer is one of the most transformative experiences they’ll ever have. It’s the moment they step out of childhood and into adulthood — not by leaving camp behind, but by taking on a new role within it. As Counselors-in-Training, these 17-year-olds learn, lead, and grow in ways that prepare them for life as a counselor — and as capable, confident young adults heading off to college and beyond. See how our CIT program shapes teen leaders at one of the best sleepaway camps in the US.
From Camper to Caregiver
The biggest shift happens when a camper becomes a CIT. Instead of bunking with their peers, they join a cabin of younger campers, assisting staff in guiding and caring for them. From helping with morning routines and mealtimes to encouraging campers through challenges, CITs learn what it means to put others first — developing empathy, patience, and confidence along the way.
Learning to Lead
CITs also rotate through land, water, and arts activities, working alongside instructors to help teach and motivate campers. They plan and help run special events like Carnivale, and our weekly Awiskini, take part in team-building adventures out of camp, and sometimes even DJ the camp dance! These moments build not just leadership skills, but a sense of accomplishment and belonging that’s uniquely ADK.
A Stepping Stone to the Future
The CIT summer is a natural next step after completing our Ranger program for 16-year-olds. It offers full immersion in an advanced leadership experience that focuses on teaching, coaching, and mentoring, while still getting to enjoy every part of camp. It’s true that most CITs are longtime campers, but we occasionally welcome new faces to the peninsula who share that same ADK spirit. A CIT season is one that shapes confident, capable young adults, ready not only to return as future staff, but to take on the world beyond camp.
Thinking about next summer for your 17 year old? Why not enroll today while our early enrollment discount is still live, click here for more information on session options and prices for our CIT program in 2026. Please contact Rikki at (518) 547-8261 or email with any questions. Discount ends Nov 1st.
