Ages: 14–17 (at time of camp)
Cost: $20 for accepted LIT participants
The Shaver’s Creek Summer Camps Leaders-In-Training (LIT) program provides high school students with an opportunity to develop and exercise their leadership skills while providing young campers with positive outdoor experiences. LITs spend their time at camp in a group of about 10 children ages 4–5 (Wee Wonderers), 6–8 (Discovery), 9–11 (Explorer), or 12–14 (Investigators) that is led by an adult naturalist. The role of a LIT is to provide support to the naturalist through assisting campers, serving as a positive role model, and leading games/songs/activities.
If you are responsible, enjoy being outdoors and working with kids, are interested in challenging yourself and working toward personal goals, are growth-oriented, and want to support healthy relationships between people and the environment, the LIT program might be a great fit for you!
- Gain experience in 21st century skills like communication, leadership, creativity, and adaptability.
- Form connections with peers that outlast the summer.
- Experience a low-pressure interview (that will help you to understand what the process is like and build your confidence for the future).
- Earn volunteer hours.
- Spend time outside in nature.
- Gain confidence in yourself and your abilities.
- Build professional connections that can serve as a reference for future job applications.
Being a Leader-in-Training is NOT a full-summer commitment. First-time LITs are offered one week, at most, during the summer. Returning LITs may be offered one or more weeks.
Week(s) of Camp
During their camp week(s), LITs must be at Shaver’s Creek from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday through Thursday. On Friday, camp lasts until 5:00 p.m., but LITs may stay until 8:15 p.m. or though Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. to be part of the optional family programming.
Pre-Camp Preparation
Independent Learning
- Set 1–2 goals for the camp season.
- Read through the LIT manual and any other materials received for camp.
- Watch the LIT pre-training videos before arriving on-site for camp. These 4–5 short videos focus on foundational information that is crucial for success in the role.
- Complete and submit pre-training video form, verifying that videos were watched by deadlines given.
LIT Orientation (April 11, 2026)
For first-year LITs only: This time is designed to help first-year LITs get acclimated to the location and their new role. This orientation will include a review of the policies and expectations, a tour, camp games, socializing, and interactions with directors. Parents do not need to stay during this time. We will be inside and outside; please wear appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes.
LIT Training (June 12, 2026)
Leaders-in-Training gather to participate in a day of training (9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) that includes games, connection activities, opportunities to meet staff and fellow LITs, chances to learn more about what their camp experience will be like, an introduction to the yearly topics, and practice with approaches to responding to children. We will be outside all day. Dress appropriately for outdoor conditions and in compliance with the dress code. Wear closed-toed shoes. Pack a sturdy backpack with 1–2 large, prefilled water bottles and a snack, nut-free lunch, pencil, and raincoat. Wear your wood cookie name tag if you have one! Otherwise, one will be provided upon arrival.
During LIT Training, LITs must follow all camp policies and expectations, serve as a positive role model for peers, and engage with training material and actively participate throughout the entire day.
Pre-Camp Throng
Pre-Camp Throng gives LITs the opportunity to meet with their specific naturalist, assistant naturalist, and partner LIT before their week of camp begins. This is an extremely valuable time for everyone as it allows the staff and LITs to get to know each other, talk through the plan for the week, select leadership opportunities, feel more comfortable before it’s “go time,” and discuss how LITs will be working toward their goals before camp begins. Pre-camp throngs last for approximately one hour. They occur from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. on the Monday right before the first day of camp. The exact location in State College will be made available to accepted LITs.
End-of-Season Celebration (August 3, 2026)
When camp is done for another year, it’s time to celebrate the successes and memories with some fun time with each other! Games, socializing, and camp-oriented activities are featured in this evening.
- Base commitment: 36.5 hours
You can earn 36.5 volunteer hours per camp week by attending Tuesday–Friday (ending at 5:00 pm). - Throng: 1 hour
You can earn 1 additional hour by attending Throng, which occurs on the Monday of your camp week. - Optional evening/overnight program: Up to 5 hours
If electing to stay for the optional evening/overnight program, LITs may remain at camp from Friday at 5:00 p.m. through 9:00 a.m. Saturday, or exit the program at 8:30 p.m. (after the campfire). - Total possible hours: 42.5
If you attend all of the times listed above, you will earn 42.5 volunteer hours.
- Be part of the group that keeps everyone safe.
- Serve as a positive role model for campers, other LITs, and staff.
- Adhere to the LIT Code of Conduct
- Communicate often and as effectively as possible.
- Lead and/or co-lead games/activities/songs/riddles/explorative exercises throughout the week.
- Set goals, actively work toward them, and check-in on progress.
- Be an active and participatory team member for all of the big things (like engaging in Throng) and little things (like opening food containers) on a consistent basis.
- Assist adults in delivering a positive camp experience to others.
- Maintain energy, engagement, and patience that works for your leadership style and staff/campers.
- If you are a first-year LIT, participate in the sessions during the camp days designed to help you get more out of your leadership experience.
- Help fellow LITs as able.
Note: If an LIT is unable to uphold responsibilities of this position they may be dismissed from the program.
To build skills and confidence, first-year LITs will spend Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons of their camp with with a director. These times include an introduction to the natural history topic featured this year and practice with identification, opportunities to lead games/activities and receive feedback before leading it for campers, practice facilitating teachable moments, and more time to interact with fellow first year LITs. On Wednesday we will have a mock stream study experience; pack an extra pair of closed-toed shoes and socks that can get wet in a plastic back to be prepared! Participants have shared that these times with directors have helped them to build confidence in themselves and their knowledge, making their time with campers more rewarding.
- Almost all camp hours are spent outdoors (regardless of weather conditions) with children and peers on/along narrow dirt trails in nature.
- Access to bathrooms in stalls depends upon the schedule for the day, but is typically available every 2 or 3 hours.
- Personal gear (like your self-provided lunch, water bottle, rain gear, etc.) is carried in your backpack.
| Start Time | Activities |
|---|---|
|
8:30 a.m. |
LITs arrive and sign in. (This gives Leaders-in-Training a chance to talk with the other leaders in their group and feel prepared for the day before campers arrive.) |
|
9:00 a.m. |
Campers arrive (Talk with them to increase their comfort and engage them in activities available) |
|
9:15 a.m. |
Morning Circle Morning circle is facilitated by directors and sets the tone for the day. |
|
9:30 a.m. |
Camp groups leave the morning circle and dig into the day that was designed by the teaching staff. LITs will lead or co-lead the different part(s) that were discussed and agreed upon.
|
|
3:40 p.m. |
Afternoon Circle Afternoon circle is a time for everyone to recap the day. |
|
4:00 p.m. |
Campers sign out and go home. |
|
4:15 p.m. |
Staff and LITs meet to talk about the day and review progress toward goals. |
|
4:30 p.m. |
LITs sign out and go home. |
Friday Schedule
On Friday, camp lasts until 5:00 p.m., but LITs may stay until 8:15 p.m. or through Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. to be part of the optional family programming.
| Start Time | Activities |
|---|---|
|
5:15 p.m. |
Potluck dinner Enjoy a potluck dinner with other LITs! Food for the potluck can be brought Friday morning and stored in the Treehouse/Hamer kitchen. A fridge, stove, oven, and microwave are available for storage and prep. Silverware, plates, and limited serving utensils provided by Shaver’s Creek. After cleaning all dishes, putting all food in the fridge and sweeping, LITs design and rehearse their campfire performance. |
|
6:30 p.m. |
Ice cream Join campers and families for ice cream from Meyer Dairy. Ice cream is served by staff and LITs. |
|
7:30 p.m. |
Campfire program Campers, staff, and LITs will present a myriad of songs, poems, skits, stories, and adventures from the camp week. |
|
8:15 p.m. |
Sign-out and departure For LITs not staying overnight, this is your sign-out and departure time. |
|
8:45 p.m. |
Night program This is a night walk for Wee Wonderer/Discovery/Explorer campers and a parent showcase for Investigators.
|
|
10:00 p.m. |
End-of-week discussions with fellow LITs and directors These discussions offer a chance to reflect on the experience and growth throughout the week. Discussions are followed by social time with naturalists, assistant naturalists, directors, and fellow LITs. |
|
11:00 p.m. |
Camp out Settle into your sleeping bag for the night! LITs camp out at Shaver’s Creek with two summer camp directors. All overnight gear can be stored inside the Aerie Classroom starting on Friday morning. |
|
Saturday, 7:00 a.m. |
Breakfast Breakfast features freshly made pancakes and coffee, plus juices, and pancake toppings! LITs help with breakfast and general camp clean-up before signing out to go home at 9:00 a.m. |
As a Leader-in-Training (LIT) at Shaver’s Creek, the following policies and expectations apply to you. Failure to adhere to the Code of Conduct may result in dismissal from the LIT program.
Cell Phones
I will not use my cell phone at camp. If there is an extenuating circumstance, I will let a staff member know in advance.
Role Modeling and Positive Attitude
I will positively role model all instructions given. I will not engage in any inappropriate language (including swearing or mature topics), or an inappropriate delivery method (including yelling, physical retaliation) at any time I am in the role of a LIT. This includes training days, camp days and other times when I am a representative of the LIT program.
Appearance and Dress
I will not wear revealing/super tight clothing, torn/ripped clothing, or clothing with inappropriate messages to camp. I understand that revealing clothing is anything that shows what should be covered. Shorts will be long enough that my fingertips touch the bottom of them when arms are extended to the sides of the body. I will wear closed-toe shoes at all times. These statements apply to all genders. If I come to camp wearing clothing that is not deemed appropriate, I will be asked to change before participating. I recognize that when I wear my camp shirt or anything labeled Shaver’s Creek, I represent all of Shaver’s Creek.
Camper Contact
I am aware that hand-holding, lap-sitting, carrying campers, and campers hanging on me are not appropriate at camp. I will not initiate these or other inappropriate forms of contact and will decline participation if this is initiated by campers. If I wish to stay in contact with a minor beyond the camp week, I understand that I must obtain written permission from the minor’s legal guardian before doing so. I will not take pictures of campers.
Additionally, I understand that I, myself, am a minor and will not engage in any communication (digital, text, phone, or otherwise) or spend any time with an adult staff member outside of the camp program unless my legal guardians supply written permission in advance.
Tobacco Use, Alcohol, and Illegal Substances
I acknowledge that use of tobacco, marijuana, vapes, alcohol, and illegal substances during or before camp is not permitted. I know that contraband, such as guns, other weapons and expensive items at risk of theft are not allowed at camp; I understand that these items will be confiscated. I know that if it is thought that I possess anything I should not while at camp my belongings may be searched. I know that per Penn State regulations, smoking of any kind/substance is not permitted on the property nor is arriving to camp under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or any illegal substance. I understand that if illegal substances are involved, my guardians and possibly the police will be contacted.
Medication and Health
I know that medication to be administered at camp must be reported to a director and managed along with them. I will not keep any medication (including over the counter medicine) on my person or in my possession at camp unless it is an emergency medication or I have been directed to do so by a director. Any medication brought will be in its original packaging. If I am or think I may be ill, I will report it to the camp director as soon as possible. I will not arrive on-site if I am not feeling well.
Nondiscrimination Policy
I will conduct myself according to The Pennsylvania State University and Summer Camp nondiscrimination policy which prohibits discrimination and harassment against any person because of age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, service in that armed forces (defined in state and federal law), veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, marital or family status, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, physical or mental disability, gender, perceived gender, gender identity, genetic information, or political ideas. Discriminatory conduct and harassment, as well as sexual misconduct and relationship violence, violates the dignity of individuals, impedes the realization of the University’s educational mission, and will not be tolerated. Direct all inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access; The Pennsylvania State University, 227 W. Beaver Avenue, Suite 502, State College, PA 16801; Email: oeoa@psu.edu; Phone: 814-863-0471.
Accountability
I understand that I am at camp to learn and grow along with my fellow LITs and to help provide positive outdoor experiences to all campers. I understand that I have the support of the summer camp staff in this growth.
Should any of the expectations in this document not be met, or should any other issues arise during camp that are taking away from the group experience, I understand that the following action may be taken in this order. However, a situation may warrant jumping one or more steps and result in immediate dismissal. This judgment is made by the camp director.
- A check-in with a teaching staff member.
- A check-in with a member of the camp leadership team (likely the camp director).
- Possible dismissal from the program.
If you want to guarantee a spot at Shaver’s Creek this summer, you can register for a week of Investigators camp while you wait for your LIT status to be confirmed. If you are accepted as a LIT, you can cancel your camp registration. Please review our camp cancellation policy.
How do I apply?
Complete the steps below by the deadlines specified to be eligible for this program.
Approximately 80 LITs are hired from the applicant pool each year. With more people wanting to participate in the program than it is designed for, it is possible that even after completing the application process, an offer will not be made to the applicant. This decision is based on the interview and past performance (if applicable). Offers will be made to folks thought to be the best fit. All applicants will be notified with their results by mid-March.
Deadline to sign up for an interview: January 31, 2026
First-Year Applicants
If you are new to the LIT program, you will interview in person at Shaver’s Creek on Saturday, February 21, 2026, as part of a program for first-time LIT applicants.
Note: If you are unable to attend the in-person interview day, email Skye at skye@psu.edu to set up an alternative.
Returning Applicants
If you have already served as a LIT, you will complete a phone interview in February.
To help you prepare for your interview, we will send you a list of questions in advance. In general, take some time to think about why you are applying to be a LIT, what you are hoping to gain from the experience, and what goals you will set if selected. If you are a returning applicant, be sure to think about why you are applying to be a LIT this year, what you are looking to do differently from your week/year as a LIT, and what you will bring to your LIT experience. Compile any questions you may want to ask during your interview.
Complete this step after you know your summer availability (this includes knowing which week of camp any siblings are registered for, if you need to carpool), but before your interview, if possible.
The information submitted through this form is used to determine which week(s) may be offered.
If you are accepted for the upcoming season, a parent or guardian must complete the summer camp online application during the dates listed on our Camp Registration page. This involves filling out forms and medical information needed by camp.