Texas is a massive region that offers everything from big cities and vast deserts to live music, cowboy culture, and incredible barbecues. Covering over 268,000 square miles, Texas could fit the entire United Kingdom into it almost three times! 

For young adults in the UK, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in all things Texan than by working as a US summer camp counsellor through AmeriCamp. This experience allows you to live and work in the heart of Texas.

With AmeriCamp, the process couldn’t be easier. From navigating the confusing J-1 visa paperwork to preparing you for life at camp, AmeriCamp’s expert guidance ensures that you can focus on enjoying every moment of your Texan adventure.

Another summer at camp Sign up for 2025 camp Day in the Life at AmeriCamp

10 Fun Facts About Texas

Let’s dive into some fascinating facts about Texas that you might experience firsthand during your AmeriCamp journey!

1. Texas is bigger than France
2. Texas is the live music capital of the world
3. Texas has a unique blend of cultures
4. Cowboys are still part of Texas culture
5. Texas has its own style of barbecue (and it’s legendary)
6. Texas has vast, star-filled night skies
7. Texans take pride in their unique state identity
8. Texas has gorgeous national parks and natural landscapes
9. Texas is known for Its wildlife and ranches
10. Texas’s summer climate is ideal for outdoor fun

Texas is Bigger than France

Texas is huge. In fact, it’s larger than France. Covering 695,662 square kilometres, it’s the second-largest state in the U.S. by both area and population, with around 30 million people calling it home.

The sheer size of Texas gives it a unique character. It’s almost like a country in itself, with variations in cities, landscapes, and ecosystems. From deserts and lush forests to bustling urban centres and quiet small towns, the diversity here is unmatched.

For perspective, driving across Texas from east to west can take over 12 hours long enough to pass through dramatically different terrains. As an AmeriCamp camp counsellor, you’ll get a front-row seat to Texas’s incredible scale, whether you’re taking in the endless skies, planning road trips, or soaking up the wide-open spaces around camp.

Texas is the Live Music Capital of the World

When it comes to live music, Austin, Texas proudly is the live music capital of the world. This city has more live music venues per capita than any other U.S. city. One of Austin’s most famous events is South by Southwest (SXSW), a massive festival that brings together music, film, and tech enthusiasts from around the globe. Texas’s music scene is a year-round experience, with genres from country and blues to rock and Latin.

If you’re placed at an AmeriCamp camp in Texas, you might even find music activities woven into the camp experience. Some camps host singalongs, talent shows, and music workshops, giving you a chance to embrace the state’s love for music. During your time off, Austin is a must-visit. Whether you’re exploring the iconic 6th Street music venues or catching a sunset concert at Zilker Park, the city’s music scene will leave you tapping your toes.

Texas Has a Unique Blend of Cultures

Texas is a cultural melting pot, shaped by the histories of Hispanic, Native American, European, and Texan influences. This diverse blend is a defining characteristic of the state, creating a multicultural experience unlike anywhere else in the U.S. You’ll see this mix everywhere, from the flavours of Tex-Mex cuisine to the state’s music, art, and architecture. Spanish missions, cowboy traditions, and indigenous heritage all coexist in Texas.

You might hear a mix of English and Spanish, often blending into “Spanglish,” as you explore the state. Whether you’re enjoying mariachi music at a local festival or admiring historic adobe buildings, you’ll feel the deep connection Texas has to its multicultural roots. As an AmeriCamp counsellor, this cultural fusion enriches your camp experience. 

Cowboys Are Still Part of Texas Culture

Cowboys are an enduring part of the state’s identity. From rodeos to Western fashion, cowboy culture remains alive and well across the Lone Star State. Rodeos are a prime example of this enduring heritage. They showcase skills like bull riding, barrel racing, and calf roping, drawing massive crowds who come to cheer on the contestants. Famous rodeos like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo are essential Texan experiences.

Cowboy culture also influences Texas fashion. Cowboy hats, boots, and denim are part of everyday life for many Texans. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself shopping for your own pair of boots or trying on a Stetson during your time off!

Texas Has Its Own Style of Barbecue (And It’s Legendary)

If there’s one thing Texans take seriously, it’s barbecue. Known worldwide for its mouthwatering flavours, Texas barbecue is a culinary tradition and social event for the state.

The star of the show is often smoked brisket, with a tender texture and rich, smoky flavour. Smoked sausage and ribs slow-cooked to perfection over wood-fired pits also make frequent appearances. Texas barbecue has four distinct styles, each with unique techniques and flavours:

• Central Texas BBQ - focuses on simplicity, using salt, pepper, and wood smoke to let the meat shine.
• East Texas BBQ - is all about fall-off-the-bone tenderness, with meats often smothered in sweet, tangy sauces.
• West Texas BBQ - takes a direct-heat approach, grilling meat over open flames for a charred, robust flavour.
• South Texas BBQ - introduces a touch of Mexican influence, incorporating marinades and spicy seasonings.

For the best barbecue experience, head to local spots like Franklin Barbecue in Austin or Pecan Lodge in Dallas. Many camps in Texas also embrace the social side of barbecue, hosting cookouts where campers and staff gather to share stories over plates of smoky goodness.

Texas Has Vast, Star-Filled Night Skies

One of Texas’s greatest treasures is its awe-inspiring night skies. The vast stretches of remote countryside offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the United States. Away from bright city lights, the skies come alive with countless stars, making it easy to see why Texas is a favourite destination for astronomy enthusiasts.

Big Bend National Park, located in West Texas, is a designated International Dark Sky Park. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches across the horizon, providing a breathtaking view that feels like stepping into a planetarium. Another top destination is the McDonald Observatory, where visitors can join star parties and use telescopes to explore the universe.

Texans Take Pride in Their Unique State Identity

Texans are known for their big hearts and even bigger pride in their state. The saying “Everything’s bigger in Texas” is a way of life. From grand celebrations to their warm hospitality, Texans embody a unique sense of identity that sets them apart.

One of the most charming aspects of Texas is the friendliness of its people. Locals are always eager to share their culture, traditions, and favourite places with visitors, whether recommending a hidden barbecue joint, teaching you how to two-step, or inviting you to join a local festival.

Texas Has Gorgeous National Parks and Natural Landscapes

One of the most famous Texas national parks is Big Bend National Park, a breathtaking expanse of desert, canyons, and mountain ranges along the Rio Grande. Here, you can hike through rugged trails, marvel at ancient rock formations, and even catch a glimpse of the region’s unique wildlife, such as javelinas and roadrunners.

Closer to the heart of the state, the Texas Hill Country is known for its rolling hills, clear rivers, and colourful wildflower fields. Popular activities in this area include kayaking on the Guadalupe River, swimming in natural spring pools, and exploring charming small towns like Fredericksburg.

Texas Is Known for Its Wildlife and Ranches

Texas’s vast landscapes are home to a thriving ranching culture and an incredible range of wildlife. Ranches have played a significant role in shaping Texas’s history and remain a cornerstone of the state’s economy.

Cattle ranching is perhaps the most iconic aspect of Texan ranch life, with sprawling properties dotted with herds of cattle. Many ranches, such as the King Ranch, one of the largest in the world, offer public tours where visitors can learn about the traditions of cattle ranching, cowboys, and land stewardship.

Texas is also rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for armadillos scuttling across the countryside or herds of majestic bison grazing in open fields. Exploring Texas’s ranches and natural habitats is a perfect way to experience the state’s authentic charm and its close connection to the land. 

Texas’s Summer Climate is Ideal for Outdoor Fun

Texas’s hot and sunny summer climate creates the perfect setting for outdoor adventures, especially water activities. Texans have mastered the art of staying cool during the sweltering heat by flocking to rivers, lakes, and swimming holes scattered across the state. 

Popular spots like Barton Springs in Austin and the Hamilton Pool Preserve are must-visit destinations with refreshing escapes amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. With so many options, Texas’s summer is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Why Being an AmeriCamp Counsellor is the Best Way to Experience Texas

Choosing to become an AmeriCamp counsellor in Texas means immersing yourself in one of the most diverse regions of the United States. Deserts, forests, and mountains offer a variety of landscapes to explore during your downtime.

As a camp counsellor, you’ll get a front-row seat to the traditions that define Texas. From leading cowboy-inspired activities like horseback riding to enjoying Texan barbecues with campers, every day at camp offers a new way to experience the state’s culture. Camp life also includes classic American traditions like Fourth of July celebrations, often featuring fireworks, themed events, and festive meals.

Here’s why AmeriCamp counsellors experience the best of Texas:

1. Easy J-1 visa process - For UK citizens eager to work at a Texas summer camp, AmeriCamp makes the J-1 camp counsellor visa easy. Acting as your sponsor, we handle the necessary paperwork and guide you through each step, ensuring you’re fully prepared to start your summer adventure.
2. Immersion in Texas culture - As an AmeriCamp counsellor, you’ll experience authentic Texan culture through events like Texas Independence Day and Cinco de Mayo. Some camps include western-themed activities, offering a chance to embrace the cowboy lifestyle.
3. Local experiences - Many Texas camps highlight the state’s rich agricultural heritage with farm-to-table programmes or trips to local farms and ranches. These experiences give counsellors a taste of Texan traditions while enjoying the outdoors.
4. Wildlife and nature adventures - Texas’s outdoor spaces are central to the AmeriCamp experience. Whether you’re hiking through a forest, spotting deer and armadillos, or cooling off in a crystal-clear spring, the state’s natural beauty enhances every moment of summer.

As an AmeriCamp counsellor in Texas you’ll be fully immersed in American culture. Spending a summer at camp allows you to experience the real Texas, away from the typical tourist spots.

Being a camp counsellor also helps you develop valuable skills. From leadership and teamwork to problem-solving and adaptability, you’ll gain experience that stands out on your CV while soaking up the sights and sounds of Texas. Don’t miss your chance to create lifelong memories and immerse yourself in one of America’s most unique cultures. 

Exploring Texas’s Natural Wonders

Texas is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering countless opportunities for outdoor exploration. As an AmeriCamp counsellor, you’ll lead campers on exciting adventures while soaking in the state’s breathtaking landscapes.

• Swimming holes - Go with campers to places like Barton Springs in Austin, where crystal-clear, spring-fed waters offer a refreshing escape. Another favourite is Hamilton Pool Preserve, a grotto with a cascading waterfall that feels like a hidden paradise. 
• Lakes, rivers, and water adventures - From kayaking and canoeing to paddleboarding, these activities teach campers new skills while fostering teamwork. Popular destinations like the Guadalupe River or Lake Travis offer the perfect backdrop for creating summer memories.
• Trails and forests - You might guide campers through the Piney Woods, with its towering trees, or take a nature walk through the wildflower meadows of the Hill Country. 
• Stargazing - Away from city lights, camps often host stargazing nights where you and your campers can marvel at the Milky Way. Remote areas of Texas, like Big Bend National Park, offer some of the darkest skies in the United States.

Exploring Texas’s natural wonders as a camp counsellor is a chance to inspire campers, build their confidence, and create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful states in the US.

Once the campers head home, the adventure doesn’t stop. Many UK counsellors take this opportunity to explore everything the Lone Star State has to offer. Summer 2025 might feel far off, but the journey starts today. Begin your AmeriCamp application and take the first step toward an unforgettable summer under the Texas sun. 

Types of Camps You Can Join

AmeriCamp places counsellors in many types of camps, each offering unique experiences.

• Traditional summer camps - These are the classic summer camps with outdoor games, campfires, and creative workshops. It’s a chance to help kids try new things and build friendships.
• Special needs camp - Support children with disabilities by helping them enjoy camp activities in an inclusive environment at a special needs camp. 
• Faith-based camps - Christian camps and Jewish camps focus on tradition, values, and community. You’ll celebrate religion while guiding campers through fun activities.
• Single-gender camps - All-boys or all-girls camps focus on confidence, teamwork, and building strong peer relationships.

Each camp and role offers something special. As a counsellor, you’ll teach, mentor, and inspire. At the same time, you’ll grow your own skills, make lifelong friends, and experience the best of Texas. No matter where you’re placed, your summer will be meaningful.

Apply for Your Texas Adventure with AmeriCamp

Texas is calling! AmeriCamp offers UK applicants an extraordinary opportunity to attend summer camp in America while working as a camp counsellor. From celebrating Texan traditions to experiencing breathtaking landscapes, your summer will be filled with unforgettable moments. Ride horseback at a western-themed camp, cool off in swimming holes, or enjoy farm-to-table activities, Texas promises adventure at every turn.

The beauty of applying for summer 2025 is that it gives you time to prepare for what could be the most exciting journey of your life. Here’s why starting your application now is the best decision you’ll make this year:

1. Secure your spot early - Camps fill up quickly, especially in sought-after destinations like Texas. By applying now, you’ll have access to the best camp placements.
2. Time to build your skills - Whether practising a sport, earning a first-aid certification, or gaining more experience working with children, applying early gives you time to prepare.
3. Countdown to adventure - There’s something magical about having a big adventure on the horizon. With each passing day, you’ll feel the excitement build as you prepare for summer.

Apply to AmeriCamp today and make Texas the backdrop of your 2025 summer adventure!