Campground Hosts
Each year when the weather turns warm, an influx of campers make their way into our state park campgrounds. In order to make the park experience relaxing and enjoyable for our campers during this busy time, we rely on the assistance of live-in volunteers called campground hosts.
Campground Hosts do an array of things and some duties will differ from park to park; however, the commonalities are camper check-in; light maintenance and housekeeping of campground facilities; informing campers of park activities and programs as well as park rules and regulations; directing campers to local points of interest and services.
Hosts with special skills or talents may be asked to assist with park programs, events, or activities. Participation is dependent upon the hosts’ interest and the permission of park management.
Some parks will need hosts that are comfortable operating a computer and a willingness to be trained to use our online reservation system.
What is the term of service?
We ask hosts to serve a minimum of one month and a maximum of nine consecutive months in a twelve-month period at any one park. Campground Hosts must commit to working a minimum of three days a week. Exact work times and days to be determined by park management and will most likely include weekends and holidays. We do ask volunteers to serve a minimum of 20 hours per week, per person, and maintain 24-hour availability for the days they are scheduled.
Two campground hosts pose at their campsite at Warriors' Path State Park
What are the benefits of being a Campground Host?
As a Campground Host, you receive a campsite (in a high visibility area) at no charge along with electric, water, and, where available, sewer hook-ups.
How do I know what parks participate in the Campground Host Program?
You can see participating parks on the map below and descriptions of their host programs can be found in the participating parks list. Click the View Openings button below to see a spreadsheet that includes the park's availability, the time frame for hosting, utility hookups at the host site, and contact information. If a park is not listed on the spreadsheet, the park does not participate in the campground host program. Any park that does not indicate whether or not they have a position filled, directly contact them about availability for this season.
How do I apply for a Campground Host position?
There are several ways to get an application:
- Download a host application HERE.
- Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at tnstateparks.volunteer@tn.gov (preferred method) or call 615-253-9945
- Contact any participating park. You can see a list of parks that participate from the map, link and availability chart below.
Now what?
Once you have filled out your application, please email your application as an attachment to tnstateparks.volunteer@tn.gov. Once received, it will be viewable to participating parks. Each participating park is responsible for interviewing and hiring its own host(s).
At this time we encourage you to send applications electronically. Mailed applications are still being accepted but may have a delayed processing time of a week or more.
CONTACT US/MAIL APPLICATION
Volunteer Coordinator
Tennessee State Parks
William R Snodgrass Tennessee Tower
312 Rosa L Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor
Nashville, TN 37243
Participating Parks
Click on an image below to learn more about specific host requirements and information specific to that park. Information you will find on these pages include job requirements and length of stays; host site descriptions and sizes; campground and park descriptions; contact information; and close by towns and attractions.
