Summer Teen Internship

Hands-On Experience for Teens. From Camper to Leader

Summer Internship is designed for motivated teens ages 13+ who’ve completed our Leadership Training and are ready to turn their skills into action. Over 20 days, interns gain real-world experience assisting at summer camps—helping lead paddling adventures, mentoring younger campers, and learning teamwork, communication, and customer service. It’s the perfect bridge between training and future employment, giving teens the confidence and experience to become the next generation of outdoor leaders.

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Internships run throughout the summer camp season. Accepted interns are scheduled for 20 days with flexible dates coordinated around availability.

Dates: June 8 – August 18

Interns join camp for full camp days, Monday–Friday, gaining experience assisting instructors, leading activities, and supporting daily camp operations.

Time: 8:30am - 4:30pm

Once teens complete the leadership training program, they can apply for our internship program. If accepted, teens will take on real-world leadership experience at summer camp.

Ages: Teens Age 13 - 16

Held at Ballena Bay Marina in Alameda, CA, perfect for paddling, learning, and leadership adventures on the San Francisco Bay.

Location: Alameda, CA

Interns help lead summer camp, building leadership, communication, and teamwork skills while becoming an essential part of the instructor team.

Commitment: 20 Days

Interns assist instructors with camper supervision, paddling safety, and group management both on and off the water.

Position: Summer Interns

Registration Opens January 2026

Why is this internship valuable for my teen’s future?

The Internship Program offers unique benefits, including:

Resume-Worthy Experience: Participants gain a competitive edge with practical skills and real-world achievements to showcase on their resumes.
Confidence Boost: Interns enhance their self-esteem through successful task completion and positive reinforcement.
Workforce Preparation: From customer service to safety skills, interns learn essential tools for thriving in their first jobs and beyond.

Additionally, the application process—which includes creating materials and practicing interview skills—is an invaluable experience that prepares participants for future opportunities.

What does the Internship Program involve?

Interns commit to working 15 full days over a three-month summer period, typically on a consistent schedule of three to five days per week. Responsibilities include:

Coaching and mentoring participants.
Managing group activities with a focus on safety and risk management.
Providing excellent customer service to campers, parents, and staff.

Interns are expected to demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and enthusiasm, serving as role models for their peers and younger participants.

What is the application and interview process?

To apply, prospective interns must:

Complete the Gaia Guides Internship Application.
Participate in an interview with direct supervisors.
Submit written parental consent for the internship application and schedule commitment.

Admission to the program is competitive due to limited space, making the application process an excellent exercise in preparing for real-world job applications.

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Quick Family Night FAQs

This 3-day weekend program in Alameda is designed for teens ages 13–16 who are ready to step into leadership roles, build confidence, and strengthen teamwork and communication skills. Through paddling adventures, group challenges, and hands-on projects, participants develop problem-solving abilities and real-world leadership experience in a fun, supportive environment.
While we recommend that teens complete at least one week of our Kids Camp first, it’s not required. Please contact us to discuss whether this program is the right fit for your teen.
Drive to Ballena Bay Marina, 1138 Ballena Blvd, Alameda. Drive past the flagpole and look for the tennis courts and parking lot on the left.
This picturesque paddling location offers:
Calm Lagoon for Practice: A protected area ideal for beginners to learn and play.
Access to San Francisco Bay: Just around the corner, participants can enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline, adding an adventurous element to their experience.
Gaia Guides provides everything you need for a safe and enjoyable adventure:
- Paddleboards (with fin and leash).
- Paddles and personal flotation devices (PFDs),
- Skilled instructors dedicated to creating a memorable and safe experience.
Dress in layers Alameda can be sunny, breezy, or foggy. Avoid cotton; choose quick-dry fabrics. Bring extra warm layers or a dry change of clothes.
Each day includes a mix of leadership workshops, hands-on paddling lessons, and teamwork challenges. Teens learn how to communicate effectively, plan adventures, manage safety, and support others.
Teens develop confidence, leadership, and group management skills while learning paddling technique, adventure planning, and environmental awareness. The program also covers how to handle real-world situations calmly and responsibly.
To empower teens to become capable leaders both on and off the water. Many graduates go on to apply for Gaia Guides Camp Internships and continue developing their skills within our community.
The Gaia Guides Summer Internship is a 15-day program for teens ages 13+ who’ve completed our Leadership Training. Interns gain hands-on experience in coaching, teamwork, and customer service while assisting at our summer camps. Completion of Leadership Training is required to apply, but positions are limited and not guaranteed.

Read Our FAQs Page

Teen Internship Program

The Gaia Guides Teen Summer Internship is an exciting next step for teens ages 13+ who’ve completed our Leadership Training. Over 20 days, interns join our camp instructor team to gain real-world experience leading activities, mentoring younger campers, and supporting daily operations. It’s a unique chance for motivated teens to build confidence, leadership, and job-ready skills—all while spending the summer outdoors doing what they love. Completion of Leadership Training is required to apply; spots are limited and not guaranteed.

June 8- August 14