Glory
There's definitely some glory in camp counseling, and if you do it well it can make you feel great.
Every kid lives for summer vacation, and you're a part of what makes summer summery. You're the cool big person who taught all the kids how to row a boat, or showed them that amazing hiking trail. You can see the impact you're having when their faces light up with excitement, or when they line up to participate in whatever activity you're leading.
Don't get us wrong. Not every day will be filled with glory. Most will be filled with greasy carrot sticks and poison ivy. But every once in a while, you'll get the feeling that you actually made some people genuinely happy.
You may even receive some recognition. Kids will run home and tell their parents about Joe Cool Guy or Chrissy Camp Girl. If the camp director notices, you'll get sweet, sweet praise, or maybe even a sweet, sweet raise. You might even get a gold star (but let's face it, you're not in it for the gold stars).
You're in it because you're helping brighten the day for young children—and that can feel pretty awesome.