Workcampers getting younger, challenging older RVers for jobs

Workcamping has long been a natural fit for retired RVers looking to stay active, offset travel costs, and stay in the RV lifestyle. But that picture is changing. In a recent report for Woodall’s Campground Management, Jeff Crider says the average age of workcampers is dropping. Younger families—often with kids and remote jobs—are increasingly getting into the lifestyle. The result is more competition for campground and seasonal jobs once largely the bailiwick of older RVers.

For older RVers interested in workcamping, this shift doesn’t mean opportunities are disappearing—but it does mean the ground rules are changing.

Why younger families appeal to campgrounds

From a campground owner’s perspective, the influx of younger families makes sense. Many are willing to commit to longer seasons, work more hours, or handle multiple roles. Some arrive with remote jobs that don’t depend on campground schedules, making staffing easier during shoulder seasons. Others bring tech skills or flexibility that fits modern campground operations.

That doesn’t mean campgrounds prefer younger workers—but it does mean they now have more options. And when competition increases, hiring decisions can shift from “who’s available” to “who best fits our needs.”

Where older RVers still have the edge

This is where experience matters.

Older RVers often bring strengths that are harder to teach: professionalism, consistency, and people-skills earned over decades of life. Campground managers regularly say their best hosts are those who show up on time, communicate clearly with guests, and handle problems calmly—areas where seasoned workers often have the advantage.

Many older workcampers also have something younger applicants may lack: repeat-season credibility. A proven track record at previous parks is important. Those who come with strong references—and a reputation for not bailing out before the end of the season—mean a lot to park managers.

In short, the advantage hasn’t disappeared—but it does need to be clearly communicated.

How older RVers can stay competitive

A few practical adjustments can make a big difference.

• Apply earlier than you used to.
  Positions are filling faster, especially at popular parks.
• Lead with experience, not just availability.
  Spell out past roles—guest services, maintenance, office work, or problem-solving.
• Highlight reliability and professionalism.
  These aren’t clichés. They’re hiring advantages.
• Be honest about physical limits.
  Over-promising helps no one. Target roles that fit your abilities.
• Ask clear questions upfront.
  Clarify hours, duties, site perks, and pay before committing.
• Look beyond the most competitive parks.
  State parks, municipal campgrounds, fairgrounds, and off-season roles may offer better matches.

Takeaway for older RVers

Workcamping isn’t closing its doors to older RVers—but it is changing. Those who succeed going forward are likely to be the ones who adapt, communicate their value clearly, and approach workcamping as a professional arrangement rather than a casual exchange.

That may feel like more effort than it used to be. But for many RVers, the payoff—meaningful work, reduced travel costs, and staying connected to the RV community—remains very much worth it.

The workcamping crowd may be getting younger, but experience never goes out of style — especially in a campground full of people.

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