Camp Fire Alaska | Light the Fire Within
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Teen Programs

Where teens ignite their leadership spark

Camp Fire Alaska’s teen programs empower youth to strengthen their leadership, learn life skills, and build confidence through hands-on experiences. From summer programs that immerse teens in leadership roles to outdoor camp adventures made just for them, each opportunity helps teens discover their strengths, grow as leaders, and create unforgettable memories.

CAMP SESSIONS JUST FOR TEENS

Camp K's teen sessions offer older youth the chance to step outside their comfort zones, try new outdoor experiences, and connect with peers who share their sense of adventure. From wilderness camping and glacier hikes to campfires and kayaking, these programs are built for teens who are ready for more.

How to Register: Registration for 2027 Camp Sessions will open in January

COUNSELOR IN TRAINING

Camp Fire Alaska’s Counselor in Training (CIT) program runs throughout the summer for teens ages 14–15 who want to build leadership skills and prepare for future roles as camp counselors. Each two-week session at Camp Fireweed, a day camp based on the Alaska Pacific University campus in Anchorage, focuses on a different area—including camp operations, leadership, specialty skills, and counselor techniques.

Participants gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills such as conflict resolution and group facilitation. Teens can join one or multiple sessions to grow their confidence and leadership abilities while having fun at camp.

How to Apply: Information about the 2027 season will be released in January.

Fast Facts

 

  • Ages 14–15 years old
  • Each session is two weeks long, June - August. Dates exclude June 19, July 4, and weekends.
  • Located at Camp Fireweed on the Alaska Pacific University campus
  • Session 1, 4, and 5: $890 each | Session 2 and 3: $805 each
  • Register 5 days before the session begins.
  • 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM

2026 Session Overview

 

SESSION 1 – All About Camps | June 1–12
Get an inside look at how camps run and what makes each type unique.

SESSION 2 – Health & Life Skills | June 15–26
Learn practical ways to stay active, manage stress, and support wellness at camp.

SESSION 3 – Leadership Skills | June 29–July 10
Build confidence through communication practice and group leadership techniques.

SESSION 4 – Specialist Skills | July 13–24
Explore and help lead specialty areas like boating, archery, or creative arts.

SESSION 5 – Counselor Skills | July 27–August 7
Practice managing camper groups and planning activities alongside counselors.

Note: Dates exclude June 19, July 4, and weekends

LEADER IN TRAINING

Camp Fire Alaska’s Leader in Training (LIT) program is a three or four-week summer experience at Camp K, a sleep-away camp on Kenai Lake in Cooper Landing, for teens ages 15–17 who want to build leadership skills and prepare for future roles in camp settings.

Participants enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and creative arts, then progress through leadership training, cabin responsibilities, and hands-on facilitation alongside mentors. The program includes life and job skills training, food and lodging, free travel to Camp K from their home community anywhere in Alaska, and a $500 stipend.

How to Apply: Applications will open in February 2027. For additional questions or to be added to our interest list, please email Tom "Moooose" Martin at tmartin@campfireak.org

Fast Facts

 

  • Ages 15–17 years old
  • Session 1: June 1 – June 26 (4 weeks) | Session 2: July 6 – July 24 (3 weeks)
  • Located at Camp K on Kenai Lake in Cooper Landing
  • Session 1: $3,760 | Session 2: $2,820
  • Costs include travel to and from Camp K from their home community (Alaska only), as well as food and lodging for the duration of the session.
  • $500 provided to participants upon completion of the program.

2026 Session Overview

 

INTRO WEEK - Session 1 Only

Experience Camp K as a teen participant with outdoor activities like kayaking, swimming, creative arts, team building, sports, hiking, archery, riflery, and more.

WEEK 1

Begin leadership training with instruction on facilitating youth programs, managing camper behavior, building communication strategies, and learning safety procedures. 

WEEK 2

Transition to take responsibility for a cabin group and leading activities alongside supportive adult mentors.

WEEK 3

Continue cabin responsibilities, lead activities, and participate in job-related skill-building discussions.

The Camp Fire Alaska main office operates on the ancestral land of the Dena’ina people. Camp Fire Alaska runs programing on the lands of the Athabascan, Yup’ik, Chup’ik, Sougpiaq, and Inupiaq peoples. We value and thank them for their current and historic commitment to and protection of this land. We pledge to assist, in partnership, in the environmental stewardship of these lands. We strive to learn more about the history of the Native peoples of Alaska and the historic trauma they have suffered. We commit to being an active ally through activities, actions, and organizational decisions and practices. We understand that this is a dynamic process through which our Land Acknowledgement practices, and statement will evolve as we receive feedback from tribal partners and acquire a deeper understanding of and from the Native peoples of Alaska..  (v2)