5I: Volunteer Campground Host

Welcome to Inyo National Forest located in California’s scenic Eastern Sierra. The Inyo National Forest is home to various natural wonders that include, Mt. Whitney, Mono Lake, Mammoth Lakes Basin, and the Ancient Bristlecone Forest.

Grandview Campground is nestled in low hills covered with Pinyon and Juniper. A large open area in the middle of the campground gives a truly grand view of the night sky. The combination of 8, 600 feet elevation and no intrusive city lights make this a popular site for star gazers and astronomy groups.  

As a Campground Host, you will be a key role in providing more information regarding the area and their National Forest. Our mission as the Forest Service is “Caring for the land and serving the people” and Volunteer Campground Host play an integral piece in achieving this mission. As such, we are seeking a candidate that can represent the Inyo National Forest in a courteous and professional manner.

Campground Hosts are expected to be available from early-April to late October 2020. Must be available 5 days a week, two consecutive days off per week, and primarily available during high peak days/weekends. Longer breaks can be arranged via prior approval. Host must be available to public interaction most of the day with campground rounds made early mornings and evenings. Hosts are not expected to participate in law enforcement activities.

Pros: One of the closest campgrounds to the Ancient Bristlecone Forest, close to Death Valley, Kings Canyon National Park, Sequoia National Park etc. Closest towns, Big Pine 20 minutes, Bishop 45 minutes

Cons: Remote area with limited cell phone coverage, this campground is listed as a dry site

Excellent volunteer candidates for this position will have the following:

• Outgoing personality and excellent verbal communication skills
• Ability to perform light maintenance in outdoor conditions
• Ability to keep daily record with public and campground logs
• Ability to interact with diverse visitors in a respectful, helpful, and non-confrontational manner

Host duties will include the following:

• Welcoming visitors and providing appropriate Forest information
• Informing visitors of National Forest regulations and campground Courtesy Rules
• Fee compliance check and Courtesy Rule adherence
• Tracking daily arrivals and posting incoming reservations
• Performing light landscape and bathroom maintenance.
• Reporting emergencies and providing District Recreation staff with weekly information
• Setting a positive camping example for other forest visitors, keeping a clean, presentable and welcoming campsite and encouraging common courtesy throughout the campground.

Requirements of the positions:

• Pass a minimal background check and possess a valid state driver’s license.
• Volunteer 6 hours a day / 24-30 hours weekly and be available other times for public interactions
• Provide your own personal RV accommodations maintained to be welcoming and approachable by the public.
• No electricity, but water is available.

Local Forest Service Staff will provide full training and support in duties. Hosts perform daily responsibilities independently without direct supervision. Forest Recreation employees will make near daily contact to provide support, heavy maintenance and regulatory compliance.