DNR seeking ‘fans of camping’ to serve as campgound hosts across Illinois

Springfield —DNR is currently seeking campground hosts for the 2025 camping season for state parks, recreation areas and historic sites around Illinois.

The agency’s spring and summer camping season runs through Sept. 30. The fall and winter camping season runs from October 1 through April 30.

A campground host is a volunteer who serves as an informational source to the public. Hosts stay at an assigned state park, recreation area or historic site and check on arrivals and departures, write camping permits, acquaint campers with park facilities and regulations, answer questions about local and statewide attractions, and help visitors plan outings.

Hosts may also be required to perform minor maintenance tasks like picking up litter and checking on restrooms.

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Hosts are required to be on duty an average of 35 hours per week, including holidays, and must stay at the park for at least four weeks, but hosts can stay longer if they want.

As a bonus for volunteering, hosts get the privilege of free camping in their own RVs, motor homes, or trailers at designated spots within state parks.

Hosts must be at least 21 years of age or older and must have their own camping equipment.

Those chosen to be hosts will take part in an orientation and training at the site they choose and will be subject to background and driving record checks.

“Above all, the quality all campground hosts possess is a passion for working with the public,” Calvin Beckmann, DNR’s Chief of Parks and Recreation said.