Volunteer
Job Description
The Ocoee-Hiwassee Ranger District of the Cherokee National Forest is looking for a several couples that are motivated volunteers to serve as a campground host at Chilhowee Recreation Area Campground. The 80-site campground is sectioned into 3 Loops which accommodates RVs and tents. Water hydrants are located throughout the campground. Campground offers a dump station for disposing sewer and potable water to refill tanks. Non-Electric and Electrical hookups are available at this location. This location has flush toilets and showers available. We are seeking host for each Loop. However, loop B and Loop E-F host sites have water and electrical connection, but no sewer. We would provide a 42-gallon honey wagon for waste that can be transported to the dump station for emptying. The campground is open from early April to late October. The overflow camping and day-use area remain open year-round and also maintained by Campground Host. The 7-acre McKamy Lake offers a swim area with sand beach, fishing opportunities, and picnic sites. Boats are allowed, but gasoline motors are not. A scenic waterfall and approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails are located within this recreation area. On the drive up to the Campground, stop at one of the many observation overlooks to enjoy the beautiful mountain and lake views. Wildlife are abundant in this area, so have your camera ready and tread lightly. Directions: From the Ocoee Ranger Station, turn left onto paved Forest Road 77. Travel approximately 7.3 miles to the campground entrance sign and turn right.
General duties of a Campground Host include:
• Assist campers by providing them with information, explaining basic forest regulations, act as eyes and ears of the Forest Service by monitoring use and reporting violations or emergencies to the proper authorities
• Host(s) will represent the Forest Service in public contacts, providing information and directions, and reporting vandalism and other problems to Forest Service personnel and Law Enforcement.
• Host(s) SHOULD NOT engage in any form of confrontation with the public.
• Post and manage reservations provided by recreation technicians.
• Clean and service restrooms multiple times daily.
• Clean fire pits, pedestal grills, campsites, picnic tables, and general grounds maintenance
• Assist with Painting, Landscape Maintenance, Litter Pick-up
• Work safely while adhering to all USFS safety policies
• Host may also assist Recreation Technician with light carpentry duties, plumbing, and minor electric task.
• Host may be asked to check water systems to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Hosts must abide by all the same rules and regulations as the general visitor.
• Host(s) may assist Lead Technician with water or waste water operations. Report leaks or breaks ASAP to Recreation Technician or Recreation Program Manager.
• Host(s) may assist with fee collection at campground or other recreation sites.
• Host(s) are allowed to operate a government golf cart only around campground area. Host(s) will review the job hazard analysis before operating the golf cart.
• Opening and Closing of gate each day if applicable
• Host are required to be on site Friday-Monday. Other days can be negotiated.
Hosts are to be neat in appearance and to keep a tidy and welcoming camp site. Host must follow all Campground Regulations and Food Storage Order. There is limited cell phone service in the area. Host must provide their own living quarters such as: RV or Camper Trailer. We offer full connections for campground host only such as: Water, Electric, and Sewer. Hosts should be in good physical condition and be able to work in a variety of weather conditions including rain, extreme heat, high humidity, and varying temperatures. All necessary tools, supplies, and personnel equipment (PPE), and training will be provided by the Forest Service.
We ask that hosts be available for a three-month commitment at minimum, or for a full season if possible. Chilhowee Campground is open from mid-April to early-November. Hosts are expected to be always available to the public 4-5 days per week, including weekends and holidays. (Infrequent knocks on the camper door at all hours of the day and night should be anticipated). Days off will be scheduled for weekdays, usually Tuesday and Wednesday or Wednesday and Thursday. Hosts may be called upon their day off if needed. Volunteers should be fully dressed and wearing at least one component of a Forest Service Volunteer uniform during on-duty time.