Other
Volunteer
Job Description
FROM: https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a093d000000oRotAAE/2024-thunder-rock-campground-host
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ADDRESS: Ocoee Ranger District; 3171 Highway 64; Benton, Tennessee 37317
DEPT: Forest Service
DATES: 1/1/2024 – 12/31/2024
DESCRIPTION:
A campground host is a seasonal volunteer who agrees to serve in a National Forest Campground. Hosts are friendly, enjoy the outdoors and are eager to learn and share their knowledge. The host will manage reservations, clean out fire pits, clean bathrooms, pick-up litter, assist with various maintenance task, and engage with the visitors.
The Ocoee-Hiwassee Ranger District of the Cherokee National Forest is looking for a Host Couple that are motivated volunteers to serve as a campground host at Thunder Rock Campground. Campground is located 1.8 miles northwest of the Ocoee Whitewater Center, just behind TVA Powerhouse Number 3. Nestled alongside the Ocoee River, this facility provides 37 regular non-electric campsites and one group site. The campground can accommodate small campers or popup campers and tents. Campground does not offer a dump station. However, water hydrants are located throughout the campground. This location offers flush toilets and warm showers. Thunder Rock is a popular destination for both whitewater and trail enthusiasts. The campground is open year round. Trailhead parking is available free of charge for the Tanasi Trail System, which includes approximately 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. This system can be reached via Thunder Rock Express, Dry Pond Lead, or the Rhododendron Trail. Thunder Rock also provides access to the Benton-McKaye Trail. The nearby Ocoee River put-ins and Ocoee Whitewater Center, home of the 1996 Olymplc Canoe/Kayak-Slalom Competition, makes this an ideal location for rafters and kayakers alike. Directions: From the Ocoee Ranger Station, turn left onto Highway 64 and travel 10.9 miles to the TVA Ocoee Powerhouse Number 3. Turn right and cross the bridge to reach the campground on the 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 wastewater 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.
- Backpacking/Camping
- Carpentry
- Conservation Education
- Drivers License
- First Aid Certificate
- Hand Power Tools
- Heavy Equipment
- Landscaping/Reforestation
- Public Speaking
- Visitor Information
- Working with People
We ask that hosts be available for a three-month commitment at minimum, or for a full season if possible. Thunder Rock Campground is open year round. 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. Please call for more information on this opportunity!