Position Description - The Campground Host & Visitor Services Ambassador serves as an on-site volunteer representative of Shawnee State Park, supporting campers and assisting park staff within the campground. The host provides visitor assistance, promotes park rules and stewardship, performs light custodial and maintenance tasks, and serves as a liaison between park staff and the camping public. This position plays a key role in enhancing camper experiences, maintaining campground appearance, and supporting safe and enjoyable recreation.
Campground Hosts are provided a designated campsite in exchange for volunteer service and are expected to serve as positive role models by demonstrating responsible camping practices and compliance with all park rules and regulations.
General Responsibilities include:
Visitor Services and Campground Support - Greet campers and visitors and provide general assistance throughout the campground. Answer questions regarding park rules, regulations, facilities, trails, programs, and activities. Assist visitors with campsite selection, orientation, directions, and general trip planning. Explain camping fee procedures and honor system processes (hosts may not collect fees). Distribute park maps, brochures, and informational materials. Serve as a liaison between campers and park staff by relaying questions, concerns, or needs. Assist park staff, Environmental Education Specialists, Naturalists, or Chaplains with campground programs and activities, as appropriate.
Stewardship, Observation, and Safety - Serve as a visible presence within the campground to promote rule compliance and positive visitor behavior. Observe campground activity and politely educate visitors regarding unintentional rule infractions. Report flagrant violations, safety concerns, or emergency situations to park staff or ranger personnel. Assist in securing appropriate help during emergency situations by notifying park staff.
Custodial and Light Maintenance Duties - Perform routine light cleanup throughout the campground, including litter pickup in campsites, roadways, playgrounds, and common areas. Inspect and tidy washhouses between scheduled cleanings, including spot cleaning and restocking supplies such as toilet paper and paper towels, as directed. Clean or inspect water fountains, fire rings, picnic tables, and site posts as needed. Remove expired camping permits from campsite posts. Report significant maintenance or custodial issues to park maintenance staff.
Professionalism and Role Modeling - Maintain the assigned host campsite in a neat, clean, and orderly condition at all times. Model responsible camping behavior and ensure that visitors to the host site comply with park rules. Present a neat, courteous, and approachable appearance. Refrain from law enforcement activities, fee collection, or operation of state vehicles.
Basic Requirements - Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions. Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to interact courteously and effectively with the public. Willingness to work independently and exercise sound judgment. Ability to perform light physical tasks such as walking, bending, lifting, and standing for extended periods. Willingness to work weekends, holidays, and peak visitation periods. Ability to remain calm and helpful in busy or stressful situations. Must provide own camping unit, equipment, and personal supplies.
Supervision and Support - Campground Hosts generally work independently. The Park Manager or designee provides overall supervision, orientation, and guidance. Park staff are available to assist with questions, concerns, or problem resolution throughout the service period.
Training and Skills Provided - Orientation to park operations, campground procedures, and volunteer expectations. Training in park rules, visitor services, communication, and emergency protocols. Familiarization with park facilities, programs, and local points of interest. Review of park emergency manuals and reporting procedures. Opportunities to develop skills in customer service, public interaction, and outdoor stewardship.
