Lake Norman State Park Campground Host

INTRODUCTION

                       This position is located at the family camping area at Lake Norman State Park, Troutman, North Carolina.  Our 33 site facility includes a central washhouse with hot showers and it is located in an area of maturing pines and hardwoods.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

            During a prearranged length of stay, volunteers serve as “live-in” hosts at the campground.  The primary responsibility is to assist campers by answering any questions and explaining State Park Rules and Regulations.  The volunteer should be familiar with our State and National Parks and Recreation Areas; as well as local points of interest, and the location of services and facilities that might be requested by campers.

            Hosts will also perform light maintenance work around the campground such as litter pick-up, and cleaning and stocking of toilet facilities.  Major repair problems will be reported to park personnel.

            Campground hosts shall take no law enforcement actions, but they will help provide minimum security against vandalism and other unlawful activities by their presence and by their ability to contact park personnel or local law enforcement officials.

            To ensure contact with the majority of the park’s campers, hosts will be required to work weekends, holidays, and evening hours.  Otherwise hours and days of work will be coordinated with park personnel.  Contact is made by occasionally patrolling the camping area, issuing camping permits, and by generally being available at the host campsite.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS OF WORK  

            This position requires a knowledge of State Park programs and regulations.  Volunteers must display a willingness to deal with campground users in an cheerful and helpful manner.  Hosts must present a neat and pleasing appearance at all times and be courteous but firm in dealing with the recreating public.

            Campground hosts must set an example by being “model” campers, practicing good housekeeping in their site, and by observing all State Park Rules and Regulations.

            The assigned campsite will be identified with a “Camp Host” sign, and volunteers will be required to wear a State Park vest or name tag.  Hosts will be not be authorized to operate state vehicles, or be entitled to Workman’s Compensation.

BENEFITS   

            The host program is an opportunity for volunteers to actually become involved in the management of a park area.  Campground hosts will be allowed to stay at the campground and use the park’s public use facilities free of charge.  Hosts may have visitors stay at the host campsite free of charge; however, certain site capacity and vehicle parking restrictions will apply.

CONTROL OVER POSITION

            Host will report to park personnel but are generally expected to work without direct supervision.  Rangers will be available to answer questions, discuss problems, and handle law enforcement situations.  An orientation session for hosts will be conducted at the beginning of each stay and specific job duties will be discussed at this time.

PERIOD OF SERVICE

            Volunteer hosts are required to be available for a one month period.  Some consideration may be given for an extended period of time.  If the host proves to be unsatisfactory, services and camping privileges may be terminated at any time at the discretion of the Division.