Campground Host

Role Overview:

Campground Hosts assist visitors by providing information on refuge wildlife, recreational opportunities, and local regulations. Hosts maintain campground facilities by cleaning restrooms, picking up litter, and performing routine upkeep. They are also responsible for selling firewood bundles. Exceptional customer service, hospitality, and a strong sense of personal initiative are essential. Hosts are expected to be proactive problem-solvers who take ownership of their campground.

Note: This is a volunteer opportunity, not a paid position.

Safety, Responsibilities & Mindset:

Above all, remember to have fun! Campground Hosts are goodwill ambassadors, not law enforcement personnel. Hosts are never expected to enforce laws or handle dangerous or confrontational situations—safety is always the top priority, and official law enforcement or refuge staff should be contacted for assistance when needed.

Wildlife Safety & Awareness:

Bears and moose are frequent visitors to the campgrounds. Hosts must be comfortable living in active wildlife territory, remain calm and unphased during wildlife sightings, and consistently practice and model proper bear-aware safety protocols.

Schedule:

Hosts work a four-day week, typically taking days off during the middle of the week. Shifts are split between mornings and evenings to align with peak visitor activity. Hosts must dedicate 32 hours a week of volunteer service during their assignment.

Location Specifics:

• Hidden Lake Campground: Hosts use Recreation.gov to manage site reservations. Prior experience with Recreation.gov is preferred.
• Upper Skilak Campground: Hosts are not required to manage campsite reservations.

Living Conditions, Vehicle Requirements & Mail:

• Off-Grid Self-Sufficiency: Campsites are dry without electrical, water, or sewer hookups. Hosts must be fully independent and responsible for providing their own off-grid living comforts.
• Road Conditions: Refuge roads are rough and unpaved. A reliable vehicle equipped with appropriate off-road or all-terrain tires is strongly recommended.
• Mail Delivery: Mail is not delivered directly to the campgrounds. Volunteers must arrange personal mail service through the Sterling Post Office (e.g., General Delivery or P.O. Box rental).