Office
Volunteer
Summer
To apply for this job email your details to Robert.Smith@emnrd.nm.gov
Job Description
Camp Host & Visitor Center Associate Opportunities Sugarite Canyon State Park
Hello,
My name is Ranger Rob Smith, and I am seeking people who have an interest in opportunities at Sugarite Canyon State Park near Raton, New Mexico, about two hours northeast of Santa Fe. We welcome applications from retirees, RV travelers, and couples who enjoy spending extended time in beautiful outdoor settings while giving back in a meaningful way.
We are currently seeking volunteers for two positions:
1. Camp Host – Lake Alice Campground
This position is ideal for individuals or couples traveling in RVs who appreciate a steady routine, community interaction, and time outdoors. Camp Hosts provide approximately 24 hours of service per week in exchange for a full‑hook‑up campsite. There is no salary.
Typical duties include greeting and assisting campers, serving as an extra set of eyes and ears for park staff, light grounds work such as weed‑eating, and campsite upkeep. Our staff handles daily restroom cleaning, but we ask hosts to monitor facilities and notify us of any issues. If you bring special skills or experience, we are always happy to utilize them.
2. Visitor Center Associate – Sugarite Canyon Visitor Center
This position suits friendly, service‑oriented volunteers who enjoy engaging with the public and sharing the story of the park. Duties may include:
• Welcoming guests and providing information about trails, wildlife, history, and recreation opportunities
• Operating our small gift shop (training provided)
• Answering phones and helping visitors plan their visit
• Light cleaning and organizing in the visitor center
• Assisting with interpretive or educational programs, depending on interest
Volunteer Benefits
Our volunteers are an essential part of Sugarite Canyon State Park, and we’re proud to offer meaningful benefits, including:
• A free, full‑hook‑up campsite for Camp Hosts and Visitor Center associate
• Free day-use entry to all New Mexico State Parks during the volunteer term
• Training and hands-on experience in customer service, resource protection, interpretation, and park operations
• Opportunities to learn new skills—from using park equipment to supporting educational programs
• A supportive, team-oriented environment with staff who value your contributions
• The chance to form connections with visitors, fellow volunteers, and the wider park community
• The rewarding experience of making a positive impact on a cherished public resource
If either of these opportunities sounds like a good fit, please reply to this email with your mailing address. I will send you a written application and our volunteer handbook. Participation requires a background check conducted by the park and the submission of two references.
We deeply value the life experience, reliability, and welcoming presence that our volunteers bring to Sugarite Canyon State Park. We would be glad to hear from you.
To apply for this job email your details to Robert.Smith@emnrd.nm.gov