CHICAGO — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is looking for some help for the upcoming camping season, and those who love the outdoors could be the perfect fit.
The IDNR is currently seeking campground hosts for the 2025 camping season for state parks, recreation areas and historic sites around Illinois.
The IDNR spring and summer camping season runs from May 1 through Sept. 30. The fall and winter camping season runs from October 1 through April 30.
What does an IDNR campground host do?
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.
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.
Where are IDNR campground hosts needed?
Officials said campground hosting could be the perfect position for those who love camping and helping others.
“Above all, the quality all campground hosts possess is a passion for working with the public,” Calvin Beckmann, Chief of Parks and Recreation for the IDNR said. “If hosting sounds appealing to you, we would love to hear from you.”
The IDNR provided the following list of Illinois state parks with open host positions:
- Clinton County – Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area
- Coles County – Fox Ridge State Park
- Franklin County – Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area
- Hamilton County – Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area
- Henry County – Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area
- LaSalle County – Illini State Park and Starved Rock State Park
- Madison County – Horseshoe Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
- Menard County – Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site
- Randolph County – World Shooting and Recreation Complex
- Shelby County – Hidden Springs State Forest
- Vermilion County – Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area
- Whiteside County – Prophetstown State Park
- Winnebago County – Rock Cut State Park
Visit the IDNR website for more information on how to apply or for a full list of the documentation needed.