Job Description
CAMPGROUND: Curecanti National Recreation Area
DEPT: National Park Service
AVAILABILITY: 5/3/2020–9/12/2020
RV INFORMATION: Trailer/RV Pads
DESCRIPTION
Volunteer Activities• Campground Host • Visitor Information DescriptionCurecanti National Recreation Area is managed by the National Park Service and includes three reservoirs including Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in Colorado. The area has myriad opportunities for outdoor recreation including fishing, boating, hiking, and access to adjacent public lands including Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. These camp host positions are front-line ambassadors responsible for providing a welcoming environment to campers and visitors to the recreation area. Camp hosts work 32 hours per week with two consecutive days off per week. The two days off will typically be scheduled mid-week as hosts are expected to work weekends and holidays. These hours can be worked by an individual or divided between a couple. Volunteers are required to wear the National Park Service Volunteer uniform (shirts and hats are provided); hosts are responsible for providing their footwear. Host positions begin mid-May and continue through Labor Day. A season long commitment is expected. If desired, the camp host may have the opportunity to extend their season into late September. Camp hosts are expected to arrive in time for preseason training. Unfortunately, no stipend is available for these positions. A list of benefits to the host is provided below. At the preseason training, Volunteers will receive an orientation to the park and training to fulfill all assigned duties, including: Providing a welcoming environment to campers in their campground. Being prominently located as a resource for campers; this includes providing accurate, concise information to the public and communicating the information in a professional manner. Hosts are expected to assist visitors who stop by the host campsite. Performing “rounds” in the entire campground twice a day (typically early morning and evening) by foot (if vehicle is not available) for the purpose of answering visitor questions, checking fee compliance and educating visitors on park resources and regulations. Operating a government-owned golf-cart or pick-up in their assigned campground for the purpose of making contacts with campers. (Stevens Creek and Cimarron campgrounds are patrolled by foot) Using handheld radios to communicate with staff and other volunteers in a professional manner. Assisting park staff with management of the campground. Informing visitors of park regulations in a friendly manner. Assessing situations and reporting emergencies or major violations to law Enforcement staff. Assisting visitors with campground fee payment procedures which are all self-registration stations. Hosts do not collect fees. Notifying park maintenance staff of campground maintenance needs. Hosts are not expected to perform maintenance duties themselves. Benefits to the Host: A complimentary campsite in the host’s assigned campground, including electric, water, sewage and at some locations a landline telephone service is provided. Although the electrical service is adequate, it does not allow for the simultaneous operation of two air conditioners, washer and dryer, microwave, coffee pot, etc. Wi-fi connection is not available, but 3G and 4G capable devices work most of the time. Meeting new people, discovering and exploring the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. Ponderosa Campground Description: Ponderosa Campground is located off of Colorado State Route 92, 7 miles up a well-maintained gravel road. Ponderosa is located 32 miles west of Gunnison, CO and the most remote of the Curecanti campgrounds. This campground is located on a quiet arm on the northwest corner of Blue Mesa Reservoir. Amenities include 15A electric (powered by solar) with generator back-up, water, sewer, and cell phone reception varies by carrier. It is not recommended that the host’s camper be longer than 22 feet due to site conditions and electrical limitations. This is arguably the most scenic of the Curecanti campgrounds. The 28 sites are more private with large boulders, diverse vegetation, trees, and incredible views into the surrounding pinnacles, mountains, and mesas. There is a reservoir boat ramp, but is available on a limited hours due to staffing and can be affected by low water levels. If one likes a slower pace and comfortable with solitude, this is the place. Desired Skills and Characteristics of Camp Hosts: Professional, friendly and eager to provide good customer service and to make visitor welcomed. Self-motivated, self-starter, and independent. Enjoys exploring and learning about a new location independently and sharing that new found knowledge with visitors to the campground. Takes advantage of their free time to get to know the region. Desire to be an ambassador to the public on behalf of the Curecanti National Recreation Area and National Park System. Physical demands –can be lots of walking and bending HOUSING & AMENITIESType: Trailer/RV Pads