Campground Hosts

  • campground host
    • Two people relax on a wicker chair, enjoying the warmth of a fire pit in a cozy outdoor setting.

    Tennessee State Parks 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. 

    Become a Campground Host

      • Campsite scene with a picnic table and grill under a tree in the foreground. RVs and a red truck are parked nearby, surrounded by lush green trees.

      Term of Service

      We ask hosts to serve a minimum of one month up to 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 will 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.  

      • A man sitting at a picnic table in front a camper enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning.

      Benefits

      As a Campground Host you receive a campsite in a high visibility area at no charge along with electric, water, and sewer hook-ups (where available). In addition to accommodations, you get to spend your free time exploring the park, helping others enjoy the park, and supporting the park programs and park Rangers.  

    How to Apply

    Select a Park

    You can see participating parks on the map below. Review the participating parks and select the park(s) you are interested in. You may indicate up to three parks of interest in order of preference on the application. If a park is not listed, then it does not participate in the Campground Host program.

    Download PDF
    • A gray and green tent set up on a campsite in a wooded area.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • How do I complete the application?

      After identifying a participating park where you would like to be a Campground Host, confirm that the park has availability and that you are available during the hosting time frame requested. If a park does not indicate whether a position is filled or open, then contact the park directly about availability for this season.

      Download the Campground Host application..

      Complete the application and sign. You may fill it out electronically and then print and sign or print and complete by hand. Once signed, you will need to scan it back in or take a picture of the application in order to return it electronically.  

      Send your application to the Volunteer Coordinator. If more information or assistance is needed, call 1-615-961-7373.  

      Please send your application in electronically. Mailed applications delay the processing time by a week or more.  

    • What happens after I apply?

      Once you fill out your application and email it to the volunteer coordinator, it will be made available to the participating parks. Each participating park is responsible for interviewing and hiring its own host(s).

    • Who do I need to contact?

      Volunteer Coordinator
      Tennessee State Parks
      Davy Crockett Tower
      8th Floor
      500 James Robertson Parkway  
      Nashville, TN 37243 
       

      Phone: 1-615-961-7373