Michigan State Parks accepting applications for 2016 campground hosts

During the warmer summer and fall months, hundreds of volunteers spend time camping for free at Michigan state parks and state forest campgrounds in exchange for their service as campground hosts. The Department of Natural Resources now is accepting 2016 campground host applications, with opportunities available from April through late October.

Campground hosts must be able to answer questions about the park, plan campground activities and perform light maintenance duties. Hosts are responsible for 30 hours of service per week (including weekends and holidays), with a minimum commitment of four consecutive weeks.

“What we really enjoy about hosting is all of the people that we have met over the year,” said campground hosts Mary Lou and Bill Brininstool. “Camping is a lot of fun and a nature experience for the whole family to enjoy and get to make memories.”

Individuals and/or teams (such as husband and wife) at least 18 years of age are eligible to apply for campground host positions. Hosts must provide their own camping equipment.

Applicants are screened and interviewed by park staff, and selection is based on familiarity with the state park system, camping experience, special skills, availability and knowledge of the area. Selected campground hosts will attend training June 1-2, 2016, at the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center in Roscommon, Michigan.

For more information about the DNR’s Campground Host Program (including how to apply and expected duties), visit www.michigan.gov/dnrvolunteers or contact Miguel Rodriguez at rodriguezm2@michigan.gov or 517-284-6127.

Inside Michigan’s Great Outdoors subscribers are always the first to know about reservation opportunities, state park events and other outdoor happenings. Visit www.michigan.gov/dnr to subscribe now.

Learn more about how the Recreation Passport gains you access to Michigan state parks and more at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport.