If you’re not familiar with workamping, it’s a phrase many rvers use to combine “work” & “camping”. Essentially, you work at the campground in exchange for a free campsite. There are different variations depending on what the campground wishes to offer. Some campgrounds pay hourly + a free campsite. Other campgrounds ask that you pay for your site at a discounted rate. Some provide propane and laundry allowance and the list goes on and on. It’s important to know what you’re being asked to do, what the benefits are, how long they request the position to be filled and the amount of hours per week they expect of you.
I’m a huge advocate of workamping, for the right reasons. If you use workamping as an replacement for a fulltime income then I think you need to reconsider. These are temporary jobs that do not pay much. If you have a family that depends on this income then you will struggle.
These positions are great if you have a spouse who can work in addition to you workamping or if you have a retirement plan already in place.
We’ve workamped twice, once in Colorado and once in The Florida Keys. Both weren’t ideal for our lifestyles but I can see how it’s acceptable for other people… those who have another main source of income.
Here’s a quick checklist of what you should know BEFORE applying to workamp to help yourself and employer know what to expect from each other:
How many hours per week are expected?
How many hours per week do you get paid for on top of the campsite?
Is there a bonus at the end of the season?
How long is the season?
Are there any additional stipends such as propane/laundry costs?
What are the hours expected to work? Days?
Is the campsite free or at a discounted rate?
Are there any additional benefits?
What do you expect from workampers?
What positions are available and job duty requirements?
How many others are workamping?
What are the amenities for the campground?
Are there any on-call times?
Is there a travel reimbursement?
Is this a family friendly campground?
There are additional questions if you want to workamp as a couple such as:
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Can we work the same shift or opposite shifts?
Do we both pay for a discounted campsite rate or just one for the family (you’d be surprised at how many campsites will make you pay double).
So…. still interested? Keep in mind that these type of jobs were originally meant for those retired to have an opportunity to stay for cheap around the country while traveling full time. In recent years, families have adapted this practice. It’s definitely a win-win for the right families/campgrounds with the proper expectations.
Here’s a few campgrounds looking for workampers:
Spacious Skies Minute Man - Littleton, MASS
The Unbeetable Experience, beet harvest - North Dakota, Minn. & Michigan
Pinnacles National Park Campground - California email info@visitpinnacles.com
The Devils Tower / Black Hills KOA - Wyoming email andrea@devilstowerkoa.com