Section 130.135  Campground Host Program

a)         Purpose of host – The host provides a service to Illinois State Park and Historic Site visitors and encourages compliance with park rules and regulations.

b)         Pertinent information and qualifications

1)         The Department will provide free camping privileges to campground hosts while they are performing duties in the campground, and will compensate the host $1 per day for the days the host works, unless the host declines compensation in writing.

2)         The host must provide camping equipment.  Some campgrounds do not have full hook-ups, so self-contained equipment is advisable.  CB radio is optional.

3)         A host shall have camping experience.

4)         A host shall serve for a minimum of 4 weeks.

5)         Illinois residents will be given first priority for host positions.

6)         A host shall have a valid driver's license.

7)         A host shall be at least 21 years of age.

8)         The Department may conduct background security checks on campground hosts and host candidates.

9)         A host shall be available in the park to assist visitors 35 hours per week, usually over a 5 day period.  Weekends and holidays are mandatory days for duty in the program.

10)         A host shall be on duty and work during all kinds of weather.

c)         Location of host campgrounds

1)         Designated host campground sites will vary, but will be represented throughout the statewide park and recreation system.

2)         A current listing of designated host campground sites will be provided with the application.

d)         Number of hosts per park

An individual or couple may act as hosts.  Most parks have one campsite designated and a few larger parks may have more campsites.

e)         Duties and responsibilities of a host

1)         A host shall be a visible representative of the Department with knowledge of rules and regulations.

2)         A host shall be informed about the park setting and activities available in the area.

3)         A host shall greet visitors, help them get settled, answer questions, receive comments, pass out publications, and collect campground fees.

4)         A host shall be observant for activities within the campground that require immediate attention by the staff or law enforcement, and contact help when emergencies occur.  (A host is not required to enforce rules or perform major maintenance repairs.)

5)         A host shall replenish restroom supplies when the park staff are not present.

6)         A host shall promote care of the park by keeping a clean campsite and performing minor maintenance tasks such as picking up litter, etc.

f)         How to apply

1)         Interested persons may obtain a campground host application from a Department office or write:

Illinois Department of Natural Resources

Campground Host Coordinator

One Natural Resources Way

Springfield IL 62702-1271.

2)         Interested persons may complete the application and return it to the above address.

g)         When to apply

1)         Applications are accepted year round and filled as positions open.  If a position is open, applicants will be contacted for an interview.

2)         Recruitment for the summer season occurs from March to June.

h)         Hiring campground host and/or hostess

1)         The Site Superintendent at the site designated for the host campground program shall review the host and/or hostess applications, interview each applicant, and hire the most suitable candidates for this position.

2)         All persons considered must be 21 years of age or older, possess a valid driver's license, and have camping experience and knowledge.  Other qualifications to be taken into consideration in the evaluation of applicants shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

A)        Previous experience in handling financial transactions, including the making of change, the proper safekeeping of cash, and recording all such transactions.

B)        Previous experience in maintenance and report work.

C)        The capability of positive communication with campers, and a willingness to deal with any problems which might arise among campers or between campers and site management.

D)        Results of security background checks, if performed.

(Source:  Amended at 32 Ill. Reg. 181, effective December 19, 2007)