Camp Host Pre-Arrival Checklist

By HitchPath Team — 2026-09-11 — 5 min read

What should you do before arriving at a camp host position?

Before arriving at a camp host position, confirm your site number and hookup type, pack essential supplies for your first week, review the campground rules and emergency procedures, and contact your supervisor to confirm arrival time and first-day duties. Arriving one day early gives you time to set up before hosting begins.

Key Takeaways:

Confirm all host site logistics (hookups, site size, pets, arrival date) in writing before departing
Service your RV mechanically before the season — breakdowns at remote sites are expensive and stressful
Stock 30-day supplies of food, medication, and essentials before arriving at remote federal sites
Bring all required documentation — volunteer agreement, ID, vehicle registration, insurance
A printed copy of your host site coordinator's contact information belongs in your dashboard, not just your phone

Use this checklist in the weeks before your camp host position begins. Print it, work through it systematically, and don't rely on memory.

Site Logistics — Confirm Before You Leave Home

Host site exact address or GPS coordinates
Host site length and width restrictions — confirmed against your rig's actual dimensions
Hookup type available (electric only / electric + water / full hookups)
Amperage at electric hookup (30-amp vs 50-amp)
Dump station location at or near the campground
Potable water source at the host site
Cell carrier and approximate signal quality (ask the outgoing host or the coordinator)
Pet policy confirmed in writing
Guest overnight policy — are family visits permitted?
Arrival date and time — confirm with coordinator
Departure date — confirmed and in writing
Host supervisor name, phone, and email

RV Mechanical — Complete Before Departure

Roof inspection — sealed, no tears or soft spots
All slide seals inspected and lubricated
Tire condition and pressure — replace any tires over 6 years old regardless of appearance
Brake system inspection (motorhomes and tow vehicles)
Generator oil change and load test
Water pump function test
Water heater function test (switch between propane and electric if applicable)
Furnace test (even in summer — you may need it for cold nights)
Air conditioning test
All slideouts deployed and retracted cleanly
Leveling system — fully functional, no warning lights
Battery bank — charged, tested, all connections clean and tight
Solar panels — clean, connections secure, charge controller functioning
All exterior lights functional (brake lights, turn signals, running lights)
Waste tanks — both empty and valves fully closed
All fresh water lines flushed and sanitized

Supplies — Before Departure

Food and Kitchen

30-day food supply (essential for remote federal sites)
Water filtration — inline filter or pitcher, depending on site water quality
Paper goods and cleaning supplies: 30-day supply

Health and Medical

All prescription medications: minimum 90-day supply (more if remote)
OTC medications: pain relievers, antacids, antihistamines, cold/flu supplies
First aid kit — updated and restocked
Sunscreen and insect repellent

Clothing and Personal

Any required host uniform items (vest, badge, shirt)
Layers for temperature swings — many mountain sites have 40°F+ daily swings
Rain gear
Sturdy work boots or trail shoes for campground rounds

Tools and Supplies for Host Duties

Trash picker/grabber
Work gloves (multiple pairs)
Cleaning supplies for restroom duty
Flashlight and headlamp with spare batteries
Basic hand tools for minor campground maintenance (hammer, screwdrivers, zip ties)
Small first aid supplies to share with campers (bandages, antiseptic)

Documentation — Bring With You

Signed volunteer agreement or employment contract
Government-issued ID (driver's license, passport)
Vehicle registration for all vehicles
Vehicle insurance cards
RV insurance card
Health insurance cards
America the Beautiful pass (if provided by the agency)
Emergency contact information list (printed)
Host supervisor contact information (printed)

Final Pre-Departure

Mail forwarding active and address updated with all important parties
Home base or permanent address secured for the season
Vehicle registration and licensing current
Bank notified of travel states (avoid fraud flags on debit/credit cards)
Roadside assistance plan active (Good Sam, Coachnet, or AAA RV)
Vehicle breakdown service confirmed to cover your rig type and tow/haul needs