If the idea of spending a season in a state park sounds appealing—and you don’t mind lending a hand now and then—Illinois may have an opportunity for you.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) says it is looking for volunteer campground hosts for the 2026 season at several state parks, recreation areas and historic sites across the state.
For RVers who enjoy meeting people and spending extended time in a campground, the position can be a good fit. In exchange for helping out around the campground, hosts typically receive a designated campsite where they can park their RV during their stay.
What campground hosts do
Campground hosts act as a friendly presence in the park. Duties vary by location, but usually include:
- Greeting campers and answering basic questions
- Helping visitors understand campground rules
- Assisting with campsite permits or check-ins
- Keeping an eye on campground activity and reporting issues to park staff
Hosts don’t replace park rangers or law enforcement. Instead, they serve as an extra set of eyes and ears—and often the first person new campers meet when they arrive.
A popular option for seasonal RVers
Campground hosting has long been popular with RVers who enjoy staying in one place for a while. For many, the biggest benefit is the campsite itself.
Hosts generally receive a free campsite during their service period. The site is typically set aside specifically for the host and located within the campground they oversee.
For RVers who like the idea of a seasonal stay, it can be a way to spend weeks—or even months—parked in a scenic area while helping fellow campers.
Parks looking for hosts
According to IDNR, host positions are available at multiple locations around Illinois. Parks seeking campground hosts include:
- Mississippi Palisades State Park
- Chain O’ Lakes State Park
- Illinois Beach State Park
- Cave-in-Rock State Park
- Other state parks and recreation areas
Specific duties, schedules and campsite amenities can vary depending on the park.
How to apply
People interested in serving as campground hosts can contact the individual park where they would like to volunteer. Each location manages its own host placements and can provide details about responsibilities, length of stay and available campsite facilities.
Applications and additional information about the campground host program are available through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
For RVers who enjoy helping others—and wouldn’t mind waking up in a state park each morning—it could be a pretty good trade.
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