Please let the You, Me & the RV community know about your experience as a camp host. What did you like and dislike? Will do it again in the future? Is anyone interested in accepting a camp host position? Check out the blog for everything you need to know about camp hosting: blog.todayissomeday.net/2019/11/09/camp-host-what-you-need-to-know/
I was watching your latest video and this may seem out of place, but if you haven't done so already please have your thyroid checked. It looks quite large and I wouldn't want it to be cancer and go unchecked. I had thyroid cancer in 2014 and had to have it removed.
@Julie, @Karmen, @You, Me $ the RV It is 1 year later and hope all is going well for all of you!! I am glad you were keeping on top of the thyroid thing. I have mine checked yearly because I, too, had thyroid issues:: three tumors, 2 *in* one lobe, 1 *in* the other lobe. It was treated with a radioactive iodine cocktail and no surgery.
We liked camp hosting so much, I quit my paying job so that I could be at the campground more! Last year (late April-October), and this year (mid-March-October), we hosted at a Maryland state park about an hour from our home. My husband had retired before we started, so assumed most of the responsibilities until I left my job. The requirement was 20 hours a week for the two of us; this year, the requirement was still 20 hours, but 24 was preferred. We almost always went over, but that was our choice. We clean the bathhouse, but on a a weekend with a full camping loop, the most it ever took was 2 hours for both of us, and most days, it wasn’t that much. While that’s not something we like doing, many campers commented on how clean the bathhouse was, and thanked us. We also clean fire rings one day a week. We enjoy greeting campers, especially as time has gone on, and we are seeing campers we recognize return. Beyond that, we filled our work hours as we pleased. I helped with animal care in the nature center, my husband did trail maintenance, and we both picked up trash on the beach. We set our own schedules. Besides a campsite with a great view of the water and full hook-ups, we have free laundry, ice, and unsplit firewood. We let the park know when we were going on vacation, left for two weeks, then went back for the rest of the season. It was great getting to know park staff and other hosts, as well as campers. We are looking forward to returning to that park for part of the season next year, and trying hosting in other locations.
I was a cop for 21 years. In May 2020, I had enough and walked away. I spent half of my savings on a Class A motorhome and will be picking it up next week. I will be hitting the road in a month and I am very nervous. I will be debt-free, but also have no income. I can't draw my pension for another three years. These videos from you and others like you help tremendously, in easing my new found fear and anxiety. Thank you.
Good luck my friend! I don't blame you a bit for giving up law enforcement. In this current climate, it's a thankless job. Thank you for your service to make America a safer place for us. Hang in there!!!
I work with a number of police and retirements. The job is very stressful but lack of financial knowledge is common. You should be sure your ready for this.
Served as a Park Host at Inks Lake State Park in Central Texas for 6 months last year and the year before. Other commitments prevented me from Hosting this year but plan on hosting this next year. A very positive experience. In general people who enjoy coming to these parks enjoy hiking, camping, bird watching, fishing, wildlife, etc. are good people. It is fun meeting them. At this park you are expected to work 24 hours per week. All Park Host sites have water, sewer and electric hook up. That could be checking in new campers, working at the Park store, mowing, trimming trees, renting boats, cleaning fire pits, general Park maintenance. At this Park hired personnel clean the rest rooms. The management staff at this park are very appreciative of the Park Host Program.
How much if any of your job including cleaning the restrooms. Although I have multiple degrees the camps keeping sending me a job description with clean.mmmm Maybe I'm not the white candidate for a desk job.
I've been retired for 10-years, I've never missed going to work since. No, I would not do it & follow a schedule & someone telling me what to do again.
I did this over the summer (I'm a single female). I liked helping the campers and didnt mind the work, but my coworker made the job frustrating and downright miserable. I would only do it again if I knew the people I was going to work with and they actually worked, or if I was in a campground alone.
That is definately one of the drawbacks, backstabbing, rude, lazy co-working camp host'ers. I have dealt with that. It was terrible. If they are that miserable, they shouldn't be doing it.
We have hosted for several years now and each has been a totally difference experience! Here are a few takeaways we wish we had known earlier. One note first re definition of workcamper: Although the majority of government-owned facilities are usually hours in exchange for site (no $$), so understand your needs and budget. Others pay all hours, some pay but then deduct electricity costs, some pay after X number of hours, etc. ASK! Also, our state park gig had vast differences in work itself. Park hosts were more project-oriented and focused on facilities and special events; camp hosts were more scheduled and focused on the sites and people in them. Again, ASK. As you mentioned, there is a difference in hookups offered (sometimes none) and we do not like that portable tank thingy. Lesson learned: FHU is a deal breaker for us. (We are also older and those things become more important. lol) Our first gig was 20 miles from our campsite, although we did get mileage reimbursed (eventually). The location was remote and the historic site to which we were assigned had no running water and a pit toilet out back. Ironically, we loved the area, the people we met, and our duties. But no more lack of facilities for us. Lesson learned: ASK, ASK, ASK. Then there are the scheduling requirements: Length of commitment, and hourly scheduling. We are finding it harder to find the short-term gigs. We really don't want an all-season stay. We really like one month or two max. We found four to be too long, and two months doable. One sounds perfect! Hours have been all over the board -- 4 days on/3 off and then reverse; hourly "time clock" schedule; and two days off but days on hours were "whenever needed." We have worked as few as 15 hours each and as many as 24 each. We loved the 4/3 combination -- and your two day schedule would be wonderful because we love to explore the area but don't want to be too tired to do so. Same lesson learned: ASK, ASK. ASK. Notice I have not said anything about the work itself...yet. Agreed that toilets are a no-no for us. Many state/national parks seem to be leaning toward hiring contractors for that work. You may have to restock or sweep as needed. We have done both visitor center/docent/gift shop type activities (inside) and camp hosting which is usually focused on the facilities/sites and their occupants and mostly outside. Believe me, there is a huge difference (as noted in the video) in physical activity and comfort, particularly in 100-degree weather! Lesson learned: time your gigs with the weather/seasons. We even had to purchase a portable A/C to survive on one job where we had FHU but no shade! (And don't ask about cleaning yurts and cabins in the middle of the day -- also no A/C). Now, I always check temp averages, etc. when doing my research. In summary: three most critical things to do to prepare. (1) READ, READ, READ. Blogs such as this are invaluable to the inexperienced camper. (2) ASK, ASK, ASK. Trust me, there are no stupid questions...you would be amazed at what some campgrounds expect or take for granted. (3) Be ready for anything! Be ready to be amazed, and perhaps shocked. Be ready to walk away if necessary. And above all, be prepared to have fun. You will meet amazing folks along the way, have tall tales to share, and adventures of a lifetime. And yes, we are still doing it...albeit a little more cautiously!
This is amazing insite!! Thank you so much for taking the time to type all of this out. I know it will be so much help for so many researching camp hosting!! Thanks again and have a great day.
Thank you Brenda for your words of wisdom! Hands down the best real & honest "in-depth" information on this subject thus far for us that are thinking about the pros & cons of becoming camp host/workers.
Great video ! I hosted in 2022 at Mark Twain State Park in Missouri and I loved it and the people. The park staff was Awesome and I met a lot of wonderful visitors. I agree do your do diligence to ensure the park is the right fix for your needs. Happy Camping!
Great to hear about this as an option from people who have actually done it. Loved that you included others experiences as well for s different perspective. A great vlog
Hi guys, thanks for the video. My husband and I have been traveling full time in our RV for 18 months and just made the decision to try camp hosting. Your video has given us some food for thought. We’re hoping to get an assignment in Coastal Oregon this Spring/Summer. We’ll let you know how it goes. Safe travels. Leigh & Jack
As someone who still has three years of work ahead of me before heading out, I can't picture myself wanting to work once I am retired. Attitudes always change over time though and any help meeting other people is always good.
Hi, I hosted in Washington state parks, you have to make sure of what the park ranger expects before you agree... the requirements for hosting was 26 hrs/wk state wide. Unfortunately some park rangers think that you are required to be available to help others and sell firewood all the time, in addition to cleaning sites and other scheduled work. At one place my sched work added up to 32-40 hrs/wk... and then the ranger complained if I left the campground after finishing that work... However I had great experiences at other parks there, so talk to the ranger in charge and question all his expectations before hand. You could find the equivalent value of your work as low as $5./hour...
We were at John Pennecamp for several months for their 50th Anniversary. It was a very good experience. My husband worked with the rangers getting the park ready for the Anniversary Celebration. I worked with the volunteer coordinator primarily performing office duties. She was good to work with and provided some extra benefits. The only comment I have that might be negative is that we were the only ones in the entire park at night as the campground was being totally redone and the staff went home. It became somewhat lonely after awhile. We would do it again.
Camp- Yes we would do it, if it ticked all the boxes. Some managers forget you're people, and take advantage of situations. We'll be starting full timing come spring 2020. If it goes well my husband say's he'll do more than a year... so I need to track down all the resources possible to make it relatively hassle free. (He'll still be working his 9-5, so any work will have to be done by me.)
My partner and I accepted one camp host position and found that the owner/manager was extremely demanding and wanted more hours than we expected. We stayed there for only 3 weeks while we were researching another position. We found one in the Ocala National Forest that was great! We started there in April and stayed until November. They only required 12 hours between the two of us, but we felt that wasn't enough so we averaged 20 hours a week. It was all on the honor system. I tracked all our hours worked and recorded them in a book, I offered the info to the owner and she said she didn't need it, she was happy with our work and "ownership" of the park. I proviced musical entertainment for the park as well as some maintenance work, and my partner did maintenance and some construction. It was a great experience and I am looking forward to doing it again! Only this time I will be alone, my partner died 11/8/19, and as soon as I sell our mobile home, I'll be workamping again alone. Just me and the two cats! I highly recommend it! But. . . be careful, make sure you have your duties, hours, and compensation details in writing!
Camp- I have been researching about van life for fun, & what came about that was I need a remote job. Online jobs are an option, but so is working for a park. Thank you for the insight ;)
We Kamp Hosted at Yellowstone, I worked in the Employee Dining Room. My wife worked in the General Store at Fishing Bridge. We loved the work....... HATED management The people at Delaware North were very lacking. Management at Fishing bridge was TERRIBLE. It is true, it is the people that you work with that makes it a fun experience, this was NOT.
We camp hosted for 5 months for the Oregon State Parks while we were trying to sell our house. We loved it. It gave us something to keep busy and free rent and utilities (except propane). I'd do it again.
@@todayissomeday oh, they all know how but you've got it right that they just dont care. It's like it's funny too them to see how nasty they can leave a place for someone which is why I wont ever use a public restroom at all anymore. Do you think the folks that make that mess would do that to their own bathroom? Great videos guys, keep em coming!!!!
Lola L With that being said guys, accidents happen. I’ve done a shameful deed in a public restroom before and too sick to even clean. Felt humiliated. I did apologize tho. Ugh 😂
I'm a experienced camper but new RV'er im.so excited and blessed that after 3 years of study, I got my new to me newmar Dutchstar 4304 diesel motorhome and my 1st big trip is coming up where I'm going to the escapee rally and then to volunteer at the Rtr then after that I hope to start my journey:) see you on the road! Great stuff you folks put out to help others ! Thanks so much.
I'm planning to take a break from my job in March and give full-time RVing a shot. One of the things we have talked about is to try work camping. Our first goal is to see more of the west. We love to travel and want to go back to spend more time seeing what this wonderful country has to offer. Thank you for sharing your journeys and giving us the motivation to try the full-time thing a shot.
I definitely plan to try workamping/hosting. I like to keep busy with my stuff, and I like to be around people - if they have crafts, or SUP/kayak led trips, music sing along - in addition to specific work duties, I'd be down with that. No bathrooms, I agree. I've already done that in my lifetime. Thanks but no thanks. Not sure if this year, because this is my first "yahoo". I suppose if there was availability at Chino Hills in CA when it reopens January 15th 2021 - I would be willing to give it a try. My grandchildren are in school anyway, so since I'm going to that area to see them - it could be a win win.
CAMP Hi there! The summer of 2019 had me doing a camp host gig at Assateague state park in md. The experience of camping there was awesome with one exception: July was a hot month (in the 90’s). Camp hosts were given a primitive site (no hookups). So my suggestion to camp host wantabees is have at least electric hookups as part of your work condition. You would be surprised at how quickly you will go through gas (generator) and propane (frig). It also was difficult to keep the batteries charged due to almost continuous running of fantastic fans. In conclusion, I would do it again but would be cautious about a no electric hookup.
Camp, we will be hitting the road in the next few years and camp hosting is something we've considered. i think like lots of thinks in life some is good some is bad just have to find what works for you. Enjoy the road and stay safe.
Stacey, I love watching both yourself and your husband blog on your RV activities, however I am after watching this video and I am concerned for your health, it appears you have a pronounced lump in your throat, may I suggest that you have a medical checkup ASAP, as I developed in 2013 similar lump and was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer which none of the blood tests I had undertaken picked up on. I do not wish to unduly alarm you, but I am genuinely concerned for you. Kind Regards Noel from Ireland
I am not alarmed. Thank so much for you concern. It has been monitored for over 15 years. I have several benign nodules and the next biopsy has been scheduled. Thanks again.
We live in NC and travel each summer to SW Colorado to volunteer at a state park. Wife works at the visitor center. I staff the main gate. No bathrooms! Work in return for FHU site. Work Friday through Sunday, off four days. Have made life-long friends volunteering at a park nestled in the San Juan mountains. Love it.
Bill Brown you think so now. the things people do to hosts when their mad. or just sick minded. some people brought drums to their campsite. but of course didn't bring them out until dark time and the middle of the night. wait til u clean up an outhouse where feces was spread on the wall or puke from a drunk that missed a toilet. sometimes is very nice but it also depends on where the coaches are and if there is support some company's stick you out there and you'll never get a day off.
We camp host in the winter in Georgia state park system and we love it. You have your "assignment" but as long as that's done your free after that we don't mind it at all. The friendships and new people make it all worth it !!
We were just there in Lake June Junaluska and remembered seeing you guys. We were the ones that was in the Walmart parking lot and call and ask if we could check in early. Its a small world.
Love your videos - first time I noticed the Rules of Engagement, it reads as a sad but necessary requirement Thanks for the videos , I’m not an RV’er or even a camper and yet I still enjoy them so much
I am hoping to be work camping in the next two years. I would be willing to do all of the work (maintenance, cleaning, etc) but wouldn't want to clean bathrooms. Thanks for another helpful video!
My family and I have camp hosted at Chippokes State Park in Surry Va for the past 7 years. We volunteer there each March and November. We home school our kids so we take school with us. The park is about an hour from my work so I commute in 4 days a week and work from the RV one day a week. The staff at Chippokes is fabulous! I would highly recommend camp hosting in Virginia!
I'm not there yet but appreciate the information so much. I've heard youngsters aren't working as much as the generation before them; therefore, campsites will likely take advantage of the generation still willing to work. I will definitely keep this in mind coupled with the info I got here. THANKS
We are going full time this coming summer and have never done this before and yet we will have to do something for an income while spending all of our time in the park. We will have a very limited income without doing something to relieve the stress of budgets.
Your camp hosting friends Chris, Donna, Al, & Angie just left here this morning after a few days. Wonderful couples. Wish you could have been here at Millerpond also. Come visit someday. Keep the bloopers at the end. Love them. Ivey
Great information. We have been workamping for several years (gate guards, Amazon, Dollywood,, beet harvest). Although we have not been a park host we have 10 years experience managing RV parks. It’s a great lifestyle.
I have some good friends from Nashville that host at all the state parks in FL so much they became FL residents. He and his wife retired (You probably even have met them but I won't mention their names,) They work Pennekamp a lot and said they were only be gone on a 2 week vacation and we haven't seen them in 3 years, LOL. This alone is wonderful and I was going to do it but some medical issues got it in the way. They have been loving. Glad you all are happy. Nice to see
Have applied to Delaware State Parks for summer of 2023. As in a dream sheet they asked for three wants of the three we requested, we have been at two as paying campers. Or first choice we have attended at least once a year for past 22 years. We will see.
Camp! We would definitely try it. My husband retired as a Park Ranger for 32 years so he definitely knows about scrubbing bathrooms (YUK), trying to satisfy people, etc. We would love to give it a go.
I worked at State Park campgrounds for two years running and I would have kept going another few years except that the school program I had been saving for finally had an opening for me. I still hope to get back to it once I retire. It was good work. it was sometimes hard, often fun, and not always glorious. Yes, it was cleaning toilets and cleaning campsites and raking leaves and mowing lawns and sawing/stacking wood. However, it *also* was showing people the local trails and playing volleyball and teaching sailing and walking dogs or babysitting and hiking, and ultimately relaxing at my campsite overlooking the valley and the mountains at the end of the day... Gonna do it again...some day soon...
We started hosting at a state park in Missouri in November, 2015. We are compensated by a full hook ups site. We sign up by the month. This year we hosted six months. We were made to feel welcome by the regular park staff. Due to turnover, we are now staff with the most experience/tenure. In Missouri, there is a shortage of park rangers. The regular park staff is off duty by 4:30 pm. Each of us are to work 20 hours per month, but we work until the work tasks are completed. We would not appreciate a timed by the clock schedule. Overall, we enjoy our experiences while hosting.
I loved how real you guys are. When Stacy patted Phil belly about heavy lifting and he said: "Get Off". I could so picture my husband saying the same thing. Thanks for trying all the different things it gives me so much info as I plan for next April.
TOILETS 😂 (I'm with you on that one Philz - no toilet cleaning for me!) Like everything in life it's all about attitude and learning to roll with the punches. The best piece of advice I think you gave (in your blog about Camp Hosting) is to get everything in writing so that all parties are in agreement about expectations.
We did camp hosting at high falls park in Georgia. I would do it again although I hated cleaning the bathrooms In The summer time. It’s so hot and people are so nasty and have no home training. Although all the other camp host people would always help you out if and when you needed something. And they would tell you that you were never really off if campers needed something even when you were off you would need to step up and help them out.
My wife and I had our first Camp Host experience this last summer (Summer 2019) out in Washington State. We absolutely loved the experience. Meeting the full-time staff and campers was very enjoyable. We actually spent the Summer on this job (End of May thru September) which was a bit long but the timing worked out for us this time. We will do it again this next summer but I would not do it long term. We worked 3-days on and 3-days off on a rotating schedule shared with one other couple. That meant that our week went from 7-days to 6-days and I found that it was sometimes tough to get back into the routine of a schedule. I do not like schedules anymore. It does solve the problem of finding a place to stay for an extended period of time, something which we have found is getting harder to do depending on the area you want to stay.
We are Park Hosting at Yosemite this Feb-Mar, should be cold....#-2below0or55degrees. Stay tuned. Thanks for all your info, we love following y'all, and thank your service! We love you guys.
I did a camp host in Maine. I helped build a pavilion in the park for a month of free site spot and enjoyed it very much. Bit I have not done it since just because of timing issues. Keep the rubber on the road.
My wife and I have been campground hosting for about 4 years. We usually go to national Parks. We have also done one state park in California. For the most part we enjoy it. the biggest difference between parks that we have noticed is the park management. Some like to micromanage and some let you do what needs to get done. We like the freedom to take care of the campground as we fit under the direction of the park. We will not do bathrooms anymore. And we do not do fire rings anymore. we also will never do a hosting job where we do not have full hookups. We love meeting new people. We enjoy going to new places and see new things. We enjoy helping campers have a great. We've had the opportunity to travel a lot to go to are hosting positions. Some parks we've actually done more than one time because the experience was good, the climate was good.
worked highway construction for a few years, all over the state of AZ. Was cool for awhile, but got old after a bit. found a gov't job a year ago, and now looking to buy a house.
I workamped - twenty hours per week - for a couple of seasons at a privately-owned RV Park near the Fla/Ga line. As a single, it was a great way to get to know so many folks that you would have just howdy'd otherwise. Toilets and showers were a fact of life but the more you do it, the less time it takes. Endless raking of falling leaves was a bit strenuous but got a couple inches off my waistline! A great experience that I'd definitely do again. I enjoy y'all's videos, thank you!
Camp - We are Hosting in MI for the summer of 2022. Traverse City State Park, Tawas Point State Park, Van Riper State Park, Hartwick Pines State Park, Hoeft State Park. So far it has been fun and would like to camp/park Host again for summer 2023. Working with the staff has been good - some of the campers can be a little rude and uncouth.
I camp hosted at Edisto Beach State Park in SC and enjoyed it thoroughly. Met a lot of cool and interesting people both local and travelers and made a lot of new friends. Would definitely do it again. Love being able to explore an area for an extended period of time. I worked 25 hours a week for our site. The only downside was the poor internet and no sewer hookup but the upside definitely outweighed the bad. Well worth the experience.
Great video. Lots of good content. We still work regular jobs, but were talking about camp hosting over the summer at a park that is halfway between our jobs. My husband grew up in that town and we camp there all the time. I will check out your other video/blog. Thank you.
First time viewer here. Really enjoyed your video! I was surprised and delighted to hear that Lake Ray Roberts (one of my fav Camping spots) has a Workkamper program. When we go full time that would be a great spot for us because it’s 15 minutes from the grandkids! I think I would do work camping. I love meeting and talking to people and would enjoy that a lot.
Hi! i just found you guys today! We are empty nesters looking into PT or FT RVing and or camphosts. We raised our family in southern Oklahoma between the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Lake Murray State Park, Lake Texhoma, and Beaver's Bend State Park, so naturally, camping was a BIG part of it.
OK, I retired, I managed and hosted a very rural park in Oregon for 2 years (didn't have an RV then) the park was 10 miles up a logging road. I was there with my dog, yep just the two of us. Spot was free plus 200 dollars a month. I did everything, grounds, cutting trees, splitting wood for the camp, cleaning, painting, painting, etc,plus hosting, reservations were handled at county. 7 months of the year I was there by myself. The county parks manager came once a week or 10 days. Now, ready for it? I lived in a tent for nearly 3 years. No cell phone, no electricity other than my solar and battery, did have an emergency radio that worked off park service and logging towers. I loved every minute of it! Fast forward and got married to my old high school sweetheart! Yep. We went back to Oregon, managed a park right on the ocean, (just the two of us) this time in a 35 ft RV we purchased. Did everything including reservations. We loved the park and about 80% of the folks. The other 20%? That would be a no! Very entitled type folks, that had been coming for years, that had never made reservations, wanted to park off designated sites , you name it. (The county had made a number of those changes, we made none) We did it for two years (free spot and 300 a month, free propane) off, slower season was wonderful, spot was wonderful, just some of the folks, not so great. We sold the RV to the park directors dad for exactly what we paid. Can't beat that! Now? We live in a nice home in a great area of New Mexico. Would we do it again? Maybe. It depends - - - the rural park? We'd go for it in a heartbeat (but they've changed directors and are vacate the park in off season) So, I guess we won't.
My wife and I are working as camp hosts at Black Butte Lake Ca. We have a covered 35’ full hookup 50 amp service space for which we provide 100 hours a month split between us. This is for the Army Corps of Engineers. We previously camp hosted for California State Parks at the Irvine Finch River Access in Hamilton City Ca. We were required to do 20 hours a week and it was a six month gig. We will be returning there on April first the spot there is full hookup 50 amp service and has a full shade canopy that keeps our motorhome cool even in 100+ temps. It is actually a boat launch facility and we are kept with a healthy supply of fresh and smoked Salmon. We love meeting all the people. You
I haven't work camped, but I have been retired for almost 2 years and working to a schedule would be difficult after my new found freedom. Keep up the great videos!
CAMP. My husband and I are planning on spending part of our year traveling with our 5th wheel and working as camp hosts once we retire. Have been looking into it for several years now.
Been there. Done that. LOVED it! We worked a KOA and also a gorgeous mountain campground in Utah. The rustic one was MUCH better. Looks like this was is a mix of both.
Lake Junalaska and the Nanatahala area are beautiful. I live in Charlotte and that area is my escape from reality when I need to get away for a day or a weekend.
Excellent video! We enjoy following your journey and all the information you provide! Retired from police force last December, purchased airstream a month ago and will be looking to head out full time in another 2 years once our youngest graduates. Keep up the great work!
We are Hosting our first ever as I type this, at South Llano River State Park in Junction, Texas. It’s a very well organized park, GREAT people and easy job! We are really enjoying it! Apparently our first “gig” we hit the jackpot in hosting jobs! We have full hookups too!
We did not even have to clean the shower house...We sold wood and did the walk each morning making sure each camper was registered. Easy peasy! And GREAT people! @@BolivarBuddy
Please let the You, Me & the RV community know about your experience as a camp host. What did you like and dislike? Will do it again in the future? Is anyone interested in accepting a camp host position? Check out the blog for everything you need to know about camp hosting: blog.todayissomeday.net/2019/11/09/camp-host-what-you-need-to-know/
I was watching your latest video and this may seem out of place, but if you haven't done so already please have your thyroid checked. It looks quite large and I wouldn't want it to be cancer and go unchecked. I had thyroid cancer in 2014 and had to have it removed.
I was just going to post the same thing- 😊
@@TheFreddyfl Thanks for your concern. It is a benign nodule that has been monitored for years. Biopsy scheduled soon. Thanks again
@Julie, @Karmen, @You, Me $ the RV
It is 1 year later and hope all is going well for all of you!!
I am glad you were keeping on top of the thyroid thing.
I have mine checked yearly because I, too, had thyroid issues:: three tumors, 2 *in* one lobe, 1 *in* the other lobe.
It was treated with a radioactive iodine cocktail and no surgery.
We liked camp hosting so much, I quit my paying job so that I could be at the campground more! Last year (late April-October), and this year (mid-March-October), we hosted at a Maryland state park about an hour from our home. My husband had retired before we started, so assumed most of the responsibilities until I left my job. The requirement was 20 hours a week for the two of us; this year, the requirement was still 20 hours, but 24 was preferred. We almost always went over, but that was our choice. We clean the bathhouse, but on a a weekend with a full camping loop, the most it ever took was 2 hours for both of us, and most days, it wasn’t that much. While that’s not something we like doing, many campers commented on how clean the bathhouse was, and thanked us. We also clean fire rings one day a week. We enjoy greeting campers, especially as time has gone on, and we are seeing campers we recognize return. Beyond that, we filled our work hours as we pleased. I helped with animal care in the nature center, my husband did trail maintenance, and we both picked up trash on the beach. We set our own schedules. Besides a campsite with a great view of the water and full hook-ups, we have free laundry, ice, and unsplit firewood. We let the park know when we were going on vacation, left for two weeks, then went back for the rest of the season. It was great getting to know park staff and other hosts, as well as campers. We are looking forward to returning to that park for part of the season next year, and trying hosting in other locations.
Thanks for sharing your positive. experience. I know it will help others as they do their research.
I was a cop for 21 years. In May 2020, I had enough and walked away. I spent half of my savings on a Class A motorhome and will be picking it up next week. I will be hitting the road in a month and I am very nervous. I will be debt-free, but also have no income. I can't draw my pension for another three years. These videos from you and others like you help tremendously, in easing my new found fear and anxiety. Thank you.
Welcome aboard. Time to relax and move a little slower.
Good luck my friend! I don't blame you a bit for giving up law enforcement. In this current climate, it's a thankless job. Thank you for your service to make America a safer place for us. Hang in there!!!
Dude you can stay in 1 spot for 7 months. Like an LTVA. You dont have to spend a ton of money on fuel moving all the time.
VOLUNTEER.GOV
I work with a number of police and retirements. The job is very stressful but lack of financial knowledge is common. You should be sure your ready for this.
Served as a Park Host at Inks Lake State Park in Central Texas for 6 months last year and the year before. Other commitments prevented me from Hosting this year but plan on hosting this next year. A very positive experience. In general people who enjoy coming to these parks enjoy hiking, camping, bird watching, fishing, wildlife, etc. are good people. It is fun meeting them. At this park you are expected to work 24 hours per week. All Park Host sites have water, sewer and electric hook up. That could be checking in new campers, working at the Park store, mowing, trimming trees, renting boats, cleaning fire pits, general Park maintenance. At this Park hired personnel clean the rest rooms. The management staff at this park are very appreciative of the Park Host Program.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
How much if any of your job including cleaning the restrooms. Although I have multiple degrees the camps keeping sending me a job description with clean.mmmm Maybe I'm not the white candidate for a desk job.
I've been retired for 10-years, I've never missed going to work since. No, I would not do it & follow a schedule & someone telling me what to do again.
Cant say that I blame you there.
Another reason I didn't join the military.
That is why I worked so long, no more work bs.
@Kevin Barwell Thank You Kevin, I agree & a person doesn't need to be rich to enjoy retirement. Take Care.
@Kevin Barwell Where can I get information on purchasing state and federal annual passes? Sounds great.
I did this over the summer (I'm a single female). I liked helping the campers and didnt mind the work, but my coworker made the job frustrating and downright miserable. I would only do it again if I knew the people I was going to work with and they actually worked, or if I was in a campground alone.
Who you work with can make all the difference!
That is definately one of the drawbacks, backstabbing, rude, lazy co-working camp host'ers. I have dealt with that. It was terrible. If they are that miserable, they shouldn't be doing it.
It's usually better for couples who can split the time than a single RVer who has to do all if the time. 2 x 16 vs 1 x 32
We have hosted for several years now and each has been a totally difference experience! Here are a few takeaways we wish we had known earlier.
One note first re definition of workcamper: Although the majority of government-owned facilities are usually hours in exchange for site (no $$), so understand your needs and budget. Others pay all hours, some pay but then deduct electricity costs, some pay after X number of hours, etc. ASK! Also, our state park gig had vast differences in work itself. Park hosts were more project-oriented and focused on facilities and special events; camp hosts were more scheduled and focused on the sites and people in them. Again, ASK.
As you mentioned, there is a difference in hookups offered (sometimes none) and we do not like that portable tank thingy. Lesson learned: FHU is a deal breaker for us. (We are also older and those things become more important. lol)
Our first gig was 20 miles from our campsite, although we did get mileage reimbursed (eventually). The location was remote and the historic site to which we were assigned had no running water and a pit toilet out back. Ironically, we loved the area, the people we met, and our duties. But no more lack of facilities for us. Lesson learned: ASK, ASK, ASK.
Then there are the scheduling requirements: Length of commitment, and hourly scheduling. We are finding it harder to find the short-term gigs. We really don't want an all-season stay. We really like one month or two max. We found four to be too long, and two months doable. One sounds perfect! Hours
have been all over the board -- 4 days on/3 off and then reverse; hourly "time clock" schedule; and two days off but days on hours were "whenever needed." We have worked as few as 15 hours each and as many as 24 each. We loved the 4/3 combination -- and your two day schedule would be wonderful because we love to explore the area but don't want to be too tired to do so. Same lesson learned: ASK, ASK. ASK.
Notice I have not said anything about the work itself...yet. Agreed that toilets are a no-no for us. Many state/national parks seem to be leaning toward hiring contractors for that work. You may have to restock or sweep as needed. We have done both visitor center/docent/gift shop type activities (inside) and camp hosting which is usually focused on the facilities/sites and their occupants and mostly outside. Believe me, there is a huge difference (as noted in the video) in physical activity and comfort, particularly in 100-degree weather! Lesson learned: time your gigs with the weather/seasons. We even had to purchase a portable A/C to survive on one job where we had FHU but no shade! (And don't ask about cleaning yurts and cabins in the middle of the day -- also no A/C). Now, I always check temp averages, etc. when doing my research.
In summary: three most critical things to do to prepare. (1) READ, READ, READ. Blogs such as this are invaluable to the inexperienced camper. (2) ASK, ASK, ASK. Trust me, there are no stupid questions...you would be amazed at what some campgrounds expect or take for granted. (3) Be ready for anything! Be ready to be amazed, and perhaps shocked. Be ready to walk away if necessary. And above all, be prepared to have fun. You will meet amazing folks along the way, have tall tales to share, and adventures of a lifetime.
And yes, we are still doing it...albeit a little more cautiously!
This is amazing insite!! Thank you so much for taking the time to type all of this out. I know it will be so much help for so many researching camp hosting!! Thanks again and have a great day.
Thank you Brenda for your words of wisdom! Hands down the best real & honest "in-depth" information on this subject thus far for us that are thinking about the pros & cons of becoming camp host/workers.
@@BenNstyle You are so welcome!
Great video ! I hosted in 2022 at Mark Twain State Park in Missouri and I loved it and the people. The park staff was Awesome and I met a lot of wonderful visitors. I agree do your do diligence to ensure the park is the right fix for your needs. Happy Camping!
Great to hear about this as an option from people who have actually done it. Loved that you included others experiences as well for s different perspective. A great vlog
We try to include others as much as possible to show different perspectives. It provides more of a realistic view.
Hi guys, thanks for the video. My husband and I have been traveling full time in our RV for 18 months and just made the decision to try camp hosting. Your video has given us some food for thought. We’re hoping to get an assignment in Coastal Oregon this Spring/Summer. We’ll let you know how it goes. Safe travels. Leigh & Jack
That is awesome!
As someone who still has three years of work ahead of me before heading out, I can't picture myself wanting to work once I am retired. Attitudes always change over time though and any help meeting other people is always good.
Work is good for you. Keeps your mind sharp and your body active.
You just have to have a balance.
I worked at a Highway Rest stop for a year. I loved that job. I met so many great people.
Hi, I hosted in Washington state parks, you have to make sure of what the park ranger expects before you agree... the requirements for hosting was 26 hrs/wk state wide. Unfortunately some park rangers think that you are required to be available to help others and sell firewood all the time, in addition to cleaning sites and other scheduled work. At one place my sched work added up to 32-40 hrs/wk... and then the ranger complained if I left the campground after finishing that work...
However I had great experiences at other parks there, so talk to the ranger in charge and question all his expectations before hand.
You could find the equivalent value of your work as low as $5./hour...
Thanks for sharing your experience.
We were at John Pennecamp for several months for their 50th Anniversary. It was a very good experience. My husband worked with the rangers getting the park ready for the Anniversary Celebration. I worked with the volunteer coordinator primarily performing office duties. She was good to work with and provided some extra benefits. The only comment I have that might be negative is that we were the only ones in the entire park at night as the campground was being totally redone and the staff went home. It became somewhat lonely after awhile. We would do it again.
Camp- Yes we would do it, if it ticked all the boxes. Some managers forget you're people, and take advantage of situations. We'll be starting full timing come spring 2020. If it goes well my husband say's he'll do more than a year... so I need to track down all the resources possible to make it relatively hassle free. (He'll still be working his 9-5, so any work will have to be done by me.)
I cannot thank yall enough for for making this video and for the thorough comments everyone took time to share.
My partner and I accepted one camp host position and found that the owner/manager was extremely demanding and wanted more hours than we expected. We stayed there for only 3 weeks while we were researching another position. We found one in the Ocala National Forest that was great! We started there in April and stayed until November. They only required 12 hours between the two of us, but we felt that wasn't enough so we averaged 20 hours a week. It was all on the honor system. I tracked all our hours worked and recorded them in a book, I offered the info to the owner and she said she didn't need it, she was happy with our work and "ownership" of the park. I proviced musical entertainment for the park as well as some maintenance work, and my partner did maintenance and some construction. It was a great experience and I am looking forward to doing it again! Only this time I will be alone, my partner died 11/8/19, and as soon as I sell our mobile home, I'll be workamping again alone. Just me and the two cats! I highly recommend it! But. . . be careful, make sure you have your duties, hours, and compensation details in writing!
Wow Terry.....sorry for your lose! You have a great spirit!! Those were great tips!!
Camp- I have been researching about van life for fun, & what came about that was I need a remote job. Online jobs are an option, but so is working for a park. Thank you for the insight ;)
We Kamp Hosted at Yellowstone, I worked in the Employee Dining Room. My wife worked in the General Store at Fishing Bridge. We loved the work....... HATED management The people at Delaware North were very lacking. Management at Fishing bridge was TERRIBLE. It is true, it is the people that you work with that makes it a fun experience, this was NOT.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
Phil, Stacy and all of the You Me and the RV Community veterans, have a happy Veterans Day and thank you for your service.
Here! Here!
I enjoyed my experience hosting at a koa in the Black hills of SD but it's something that definitely requires a second form of income.
Our hope is to camp host after retirement. We love rv-ing. To us this would be perfection!!
We've been doing it for 5 years now we believe that you make it for what it is we love it meet so many wonderful people
Ron and Pam
Thanks for sharing your experience. I agree like most things in life it is what you make it.
"be openminded" is a loaded phrase.
Just like the recruiter said, "It's just like camping with guns!"
We camp hosted for 5 months for the Oregon State Parks while we were trying to sell our house. We loved it. It gave us something to keep busy and free rent and utilities (except propane). I'd do it again.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
I definitely greatly appreciate those who know how to CLEAN a toilet for those who don't know how to USE one... you deserve 🎖 👍🏻👍🏻
You would be shocked at how many people dont know or just dont care.
I spent 3 months Park hosting 32 hours a week on the blue ridge parkway this summer. It was a little too long but nice and cool temps.
@@todayissomeday oh, they all know how but you've got it right that they just dont care. It's like it's funny too them to see how nasty they can leave a place for someone which is why I wont ever use a public restroom at all anymore. Do you think the folks that make that mess would do that to their own bathroom?
Great videos guys, keep em coming!!!!
Lola L With that being said guys, accidents happen. I’ve done a shameful deed in a public restroom before and too sick to even clean. Felt humiliated. I did apologize tho. Ugh 😂
@@jchapman6935 Which campground on the BRP?
I'm a experienced camper but new RV'er im.so excited and blessed that after 3 years of study, I got my new to me newmar Dutchstar 4304 diesel motorhome and my 1st big trip is coming up where I'm going to the escapee rally and then to volunteer at the Rtr then after that I hope to start my journey:) see you on the road! Great stuff you folks put out to help others ! Thanks so much.
Congratulations on your rig!! Enjoy her and be safe out there.
Was really looking forward to seeing an officer do latrine dooty . lol Hope you guys are having fun and enjoying your travels.
Check out our last camp host video and you wont be disappointed: ruclips.net/video/fmzm9u5L9Is/видео.html
💯👍
That valve works like a valvestem on a tire, it just larger.
Just went full time and would like to try camp hosting ...
I'm planning to take a break from my job in March and give full-time RVing a shot. One of the things we have talked about is to try work camping. Our first goal is to see more of the west. We love to travel and want to go back to spend more time seeing what this wonderful country has to offer. Thank you for sharing your journeys and giving us the motivation to try the full-time thing a shot.
Thanks for sharing your experience! ♡
Of course!! Thanks for joining us!
I definitely plan to try workamping/hosting. I like to keep busy with my stuff, and I like to be around people - if they have crafts, or SUP/kayak led trips, music sing along - in addition to specific work duties, I'd be down with that. No bathrooms, I agree. I've already done that in my lifetime. Thanks but no thanks. Not sure if this year, because this is my first "yahoo". I suppose if there was availability at Chino Hills in CA when it reopens January 15th 2021 - I would be willing to give it a try. My grandchildren are in school anyway, so since I'm going to that area to see them - it could be a win win.
“You’re killing me smalls” 🤣 I say that to Chad all the time! It was great hanging out with you guys, even though you worked too much 😜💕
It is a fav of Phil's
Quote from THE SANDLOT movie but have heard it other places. Thought it was in RIDDICK movie.
Great video! So helpful! Izzy and I will be going full time in a few years and this is so good to know. Thank you! - MJ
You are so welcome!
CAMP
Hi there! The summer of 2019 had me doing a camp host gig at Assateague state park in md. The experience of camping there was awesome with one exception: July was a hot month (in the 90’s). Camp hosts were given a primitive site (no hookups). So my suggestion to camp host wantabees is have at least electric hookups as part of your work condition. You would be surprised at how quickly you will go through gas (generator) and propane (frig). It also was difficult to keep the batteries charged due to almost continuous running of fantastic fans. In conclusion, I would do it again but would be cautious about a no electric hookup.
That is great advice! Thanks so much for sharing!!
My wife and I have been considered on hosting and I’m so glad you guys had shared your experience.
TOILET!! Way to go Phil!!
Camp, we will be hitting the road in the next few years and camp hosting is something we've considered. i think like lots of thinks in life some is good some is bad just have to find what works for you. Enjoy the road and stay safe.
Stacey, I love watching both yourself and your husband blog on your RV activities, however I am after watching this video and I am concerned for your health, it appears you have a pronounced lump in your throat, may I suggest that you have a medical checkup ASAP, as I developed in 2013 similar lump and was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer which none of the blood tests I had undertaken picked up on. I do not wish to unduly alarm you, but I am genuinely concerned for you. Kind Regards Noel from Ireland
I am not alarmed. Thank so much for you concern. It has been monitored for over 15 years. I have several benign nodules and the next biopsy has been scheduled. Thanks again.
We live in NC and travel each summer to SW Colorado to volunteer at a state park. Wife works at the visitor center. I staff the main gate. No bathrooms! Work in return for FHU site. Work Friday through Sunday, off four days. Have made life-long friends volunteering at a park nestled in the San Juan mountains. Love it.
That sounds awesome! Thanks for sharing your experience.
My wife and I would jump all over that opportunity.
Outstanding. It is a great way to save money and mingle with like minded folks!
Bill Brown you think so now. the things people do to hosts when their mad. or just sick minded. some people brought drums to their campsite. but of course didn't bring them out until dark time and the middle of the night. wait til u clean up an outhouse where feces was spread on the wall or puke from a drunk that missed a toilet. sometimes is very nice but it also depends on where the coaches are and if there is support some company's stick you out there and you'll never get a day off.
@@margaretjones2055 Where did you workamp?
We camp host in the winter in Georgia state park system and we love it. You have your "assignment" but as long as that's done your free after that we don't mind it at all. The friendships and new people make it all worth it !!
So glad you had a great experience. Thanks so much for sharing.
:-) Ha... Navy cured me of cleaning toilets!
We were just there in Lake June Junaluska and remembered seeing you guys. We were the ones that was in the Walmart parking lot and call and ask if we could check in early. Its a small world.
That is so cool!!! I hope you enjoyed the area!
I don't know why you don't like cleaning restrooms, heck free breath mints.
Actually? Cleaning the restrooms is the easy part! Always prided myself on super clean restrooms. Loved hearing "cleanest restrooms we've seen!"
We haven't been camp hosts but we have volunteered and totally agree that doing this is worth it!
"Camp!" We have hosted before and loved it. We are going to Worcamp are Adventure Land park next year. We hope it will fun!
Nice. As long as you like it......stay the course!
Adventure Land park in Iowa?
@@brown1william Yes sir, we get there April 15th
Love your videos - first time I noticed the Rules of Engagement, it reads as a sad but necessary requirement
Thanks for the videos , I’m not an RV’er or even a camper and yet I still enjoy them so much
The whole idea of being a full time RVer is to be FREEEE and not going, even just a little bit, back into the forsaken hamster cage...lol
Hahaha
@KenDroid66 Lol...I hear ya... just try to minimize it:)
I am hoping to be work camping in the next two years. I would be willing to do all of the work (maintenance, cleaning, etc) but wouldn't want to clean bathrooms. Thanks for another helpful video!
Toilet.... Lol Great video guys.
Thanks you.
My family and I have camp hosted at Chippokes State Park in Surry Va for the past 7 years. We volunteer there each March and November. We home school our kids so we take school with us. The park is about an hour from my work so I commute in 4 days a week and work from the RV one day a week. The staff at Chippokes is fabulous! I would highly recommend camp hosting in Virginia!
That is very cool!! I am glad it is such a wonderful experience for you.
We love BLM land free and no work
I'm not there yet but appreciate the information so much. I've heard youngsters aren't working as much as the generation before them; therefore, campsites will likely take advantage of the generation still willing to work. I will definitely keep this in mind coupled with the info I got here. THANKS
We are going full time this coming summer and have never done this before and yet we will have to do something for an income while spending all of our time in the park. We will have a very limited income without doing something to relieve the stress of budgets.
Your camp hosting friends Chris, Donna, Al, & Angie just left here this morning after a few days. Wonderful couples. Wish you could have been here at Millerpond also. Come visit someday. Keep the bloopers at the end. Love them. Ivey
Hi Elaine! They said it they loved their stay! We really wish we could have joined them. Thanks for the invite.
Great information. We have been workamping for several years (gate guards, Amazon, Dollywood,, beet harvest). Although we have not been a park host we have 10 years experience managing RV parks. It’s a great lifestyle.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
I have some good friends from Nashville that host at all the state parks in FL so much they became FL residents. He and his wife retired (You probably even have met them but I won't mention their names,) They work Pennekamp a lot and said they were only be gone on a 2 week vacation and we haven't seen them in 3 years, LOL. This alone is wonderful and I was going to do it but some medical issues got it in the way. They have been loving. Glad you all are happy. Nice to see
Thanks for the support! Love that! 3 year vacation is great!
Have applied to Delaware State Parks for summer of 2023. As in a dream sheet they asked for three wants of the three we requested, we have been at two as paying campers. Or first choice we have attended at least once a year for past 22 years. We will see.
Camp! We would definitely try it. My husband retired as a Park Ranger for 32 years so he definitely knows about scrubbing bathrooms (YUK), trying to satisfy people, etc. We would love to give it a go.
He probably knows exactly what he would be getting in!!
I worked at State Park campgrounds for two years running and I would have kept going another few years except that the school program I had been saving for finally had an opening for me. I still hope to get back to it once I retire.
It was good work. it was sometimes hard, often fun, and not always glorious.
Yes, it was cleaning toilets and cleaning campsites and raking leaves and mowing lawns and sawing/stacking wood.
However, it *also* was showing people the local trails and playing volleyball and teaching sailing and walking dogs or babysitting and hiking, and ultimately relaxing at my campsite overlooking the valley and the mountains at the end of the day...
Gonna do it again...some day soon...
We started hosting at a state park in Missouri in November, 2015. We are compensated by a full hook ups site. We sign up by the month. This year we hosted six months. We were made to feel welcome by the regular park staff. Due to turnover, we are now staff with the most experience/tenure. In Missouri, there is a shortage of park rangers. The regular park staff is off duty by 4:30 pm. Each of us are to work 20 hours per month, but we work until the work tasks are completed. We would not appreciate a timed by the clock schedule. Overall, we enjoy our experiences while hosting.
I loved how real you guys are. When Stacy patted Phil belly about heavy lifting and he said: "Get Off". I could so picture my husband saying the same thing. Thanks for trying all the different things it gives me so much info as I plan for next April.
You are so welcome. I hope it is helpful.
TOILETS 😂 (I'm with you on that one Philz - no toilet cleaning for me!) Like everything in life it's all about attitude and learning to roll with the punches. The best piece of advice I think you gave (in your blog about Camp Hosting) is to get everything in writing so that all parties are in agreement about expectations.
RIght! That way you know exactly what you are getting yourself into.
We did camp hosting at high falls park in Georgia. I would do it again although I hated cleaning the bathrooms In The summer time. It’s so hot and people are so nasty and have no home training. Although all the other camp host people would always help you out if and when you needed something. And they would tell you that you were never really off if campers needed something even when you were off you would need to step up and help them out.
My wife and I had our first Camp Host experience this last summer (Summer 2019) out in Washington State. We absolutely loved the experience. Meeting the full-time staff and campers was very enjoyable. We actually spent the Summer on this job (End of May thru September) which was a bit long but the timing worked out for us this time. We will do it again this next summer but I would not do it long term. We worked 3-days on and 3-days off on a rotating schedule shared with one other couple. That meant that our week went from 7-days to 6-days and I found that it was sometimes tough to get back into the routine of a schedule. I do not like schedules anymore. It does solve the problem of finding a place to stay for an extended period of time, something which we have found is getting harder to do depending on the area you want to stay.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
Jay and I are looking to Camp Host, starting in 2023. I'll check out your blog and would love any additional recommendations from you all.
We are Park Hosting at Yosemite this Feb-Mar, should be cold....#-2below0or55degrees. Stay tuned. Thanks for all your info, we love following y'all, and thank your service! We love you guys.
We’re starting full timing year end and are definitely interested in workamping. So thank you for this.
Just starting to weigh the pros and cons. Looking forward to getting out and living the best life!!
I did a camp host in Maine. I helped build a pavilion in the park for a month of free site spot and enjoyed it very much. Bit I have not done it since just because of timing issues.
Keep the rubber on the road.
That sounds really cool.
We parkhost at Tyler State Park now. We love it.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
Do they allow drinking? I've heard that it is nice.
My wife and I have been campground hosting for about 4 years. We usually go to national Parks. We have also done one state park in California. For the most part we enjoy it. the biggest difference between parks that we have noticed is the park management. Some like to micromanage and some let you do what needs to get done. We like the freedom to take care of the campground as we fit under the direction of the park. We will not do bathrooms anymore. And we do not do fire rings anymore. we also will never do a hosting job where we do not have full hookups. We love meeting new people. We enjoy going to new places and see new things. We enjoy helping campers have a great. We've had the opportunity to travel a lot to go to are hosting positions. Some parks we've actually done more than one time because the experience was good, the climate was good.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
worked highway construction for a few years, all over the state of AZ.
Was cool for awhile, but got old after a bit.
found a gov't job a year ago, and now looking to buy a house.
We telecommute our jobs, but doing a camp host or other work might be a fun thing to do. Our home base is Texas near family & love the RV life!
Then you are all set.....give it a try!!!
I workamped - twenty hours per week - for a couple of seasons at a privately-owned RV Park near the Fla/Ga line. As a single, it was a great way to get to know so many folks that you would have just howdy'd otherwise. Toilets and showers were a fact of life but the more you do it, the less time it takes. Endless raking of falling leaves was a bit strenuous but got a couple inches off my waistline! A great experience that I'd definitely do again. I enjoy y'all's videos, thank you!
That is awesome. So glad you had such a great experience. Thanks for taking the time to share with everyone.
Love the video - thanks for posting it. My wife and I are thinking of doing work camping in the future.
Hope it was helpful
Camp - We are Hosting in MI for the summer of 2022. Traverse City State Park, Tawas Point State Park, Van Riper State Park, Hartwick Pines State Park, Hoeft State Park. So far it has been fun and would like to camp/park Host again for summer 2023. Working with the staff has been good - some of the campers can be a little rude and uncouth.
KAMP! Trying to get started.Hope to do warm climates in winter.
I camp hosted at Edisto Beach State Park in SC and enjoyed it thoroughly. Met a lot of cool and interesting people both local and travelers and made a lot of new friends. Would definitely do it again. Love being able to explore an area for an extended period of time. I worked 25 hours a week for our site. The only downside was the poor internet and no sewer hookup but the upside definitely outweighed the bad. Well worth the experience.
Great video. Lots of good content. We still work regular jobs, but were talking about camp hosting over the summer at a park that is halfway between our jobs. My husband grew up in that town and we camp there all the time. I will check out your other video/blog. Thank you.
Thank you. Good luck!
We will go full time next year and are definitely keeping this as an option.
I am looking into it next year. Talking to one of the Florida park volunteer coordinators
First time viewer here. Really enjoyed your video! I was surprised and delighted to hear that Lake Ray Roberts (one of my fav Camping spots) has a Workkamper program. When we go full time that would be a great spot for us because it’s 15 minutes from the grandkids! I think I would do work camping. I love meeting and talking to people and would enjoy that a lot.
Welcome! We are so glad you are here.
Its Veterans Day. Thank you all for your service!!! HEROs ALL!!!
Thanks so much!
Hi! i just found you guys today! We are empty nesters looking into PT or FT RVing and or camphosts. We raised our family in southern Oklahoma between the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Lake Murray State Park, Lake Texhoma, and Beaver's Bend State Park, so naturally, camping was a BIG part of it.
Welcome! We are so glad you are here.
Yes, i would be interested. 20 hrs a week would be plenty though. I think it would be worth it for your site cost with full hook ups .
We have not yet camp hosted but my wife and I are looking forward to trying a camp host adventure
OK, I retired, I managed and hosted a very rural park in Oregon for 2 years (didn't have an RV then) the park was 10 miles up a logging road. I was there with my dog, yep just the two of us. Spot was free plus 200 dollars a month. I did everything, grounds, cutting trees, splitting wood for the camp, cleaning, painting, painting, etc,plus hosting, reservations were handled at county. 7 months of the year I was there by myself. The county parks manager came once a week or 10 days. Now, ready for it? I lived in a tent for nearly 3 years. No cell phone, no electricity other than my solar and battery, did have an emergency radio that worked off park service and logging towers. I loved every minute of it! Fast forward and got married to my old high school sweetheart! Yep. We went back to Oregon, managed a park right on the ocean, (just the two of us) this time in a 35 ft RV we purchased. Did everything including reservations. We loved the park and about 80% of the folks. The other 20%? That would be a no! Very entitled type folks, that had been coming for years, that had never made reservations, wanted to park off designated sites , you name it. (The county had made a number of those changes, we made none) We did it for two years (free spot and 300 a month, free propane) off, slower season was wonderful, spot was wonderful, just some of the folks, not so great. We sold the RV to the park directors dad for exactly what we paid. Can't beat that! Now? We live in a nice home in a great area of New Mexico. Would we do it again? Maybe. It depends - - - the rural park? We'd go for it in a heartbeat (but they've changed directors and are vacate the park in off season) So, I guess we won't.
My wife and I are working as camp hosts at Black Butte Lake Ca. We have a covered 35’ full hookup 50 amp service space for which we provide 100 hours a month split between us. This is for the Army Corps of Engineers. We previously camp hosted for California State Parks at the Irvine Finch River Access in Hamilton City Ca. We were required to do 20 hours a week and it was a six month gig. We will be returning there on April first the spot there is full hookup 50 amp service and has a full shade canopy that keeps our motorhome cool even in 100+ temps. It is actually a boat launch facility and we are kept with a healthy supply of fresh and smoked Salmon. We love meeting all the people. You
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I know it will help others.
I haven't work camped, but I have been retired for almost 2 years and working to a schedule would be difficult after my new found freedom. Keep up the great videos!
That was the hardest part!! lol
CAMP. My husband and I are planning on spending part of our year traveling with our 5th wheel and working as camp hosts once we retire. Have been looking into it for several years now.
Been there. Done that. LOVED it! We worked a KOA and also a gorgeous mountain campground in Utah. The rustic one was MUCH better. Looks like this was is a mix of both.
Thanks for sharing your experience.
camp- we are doing our first year full time and have 3 host gigs scheduled in Al and VA in 2022
Lake Junalaska and the Nanatahala area are beautiful. I live in Charlotte and that area is my escape from reality when I need to get away for a day or a weekend.
We agree completely! We had a great time and wish we had been able to explore more.
Excellent video! We enjoy following your journey and all the information you provide! Retired from police force last December, purchased airstream a month ago and will be looking to head out full time in another 2 years once our youngest graduates. Keep up the great work!
Congratulations on your new rig!! Safe travels.
Camp ! I’m retired military and would like to do this with my family.
We are Hosting our first ever as I type this, at South Llano River State Park in Junction, Texas. It’s a very well organized park, GREAT people and easy job! We are really enjoying it! Apparently our first “gig” we hit the jackpot in hosting jobs! We have full hookups too!
Thanks for sharing your experience. I am so glad you are loving it there!
Are you required to clean toilets? We are considering hosting at a state park in the Hill country for our first hosting job.
We did not even have to clean the shower house...We sold wood and did the walk each morning making sure each camper was registered. Easy peasy! And GREAT people! @@BolivarBuddy