Outdoor recreation and leisure activities are a major part of the American lifestyle, and a definite contributor to the quality of life, health, and economy for thousands of rural communities. Your public lands play a lead role in providing these benefits, making recreation and visitor services a top priority for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

Camping is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the outdoors. There is nothing quite like spending an evening away from home at a backcountry campsite or a fully developed campground where you and your family can pitch a tent or park an RV. The BLM’s Burns District has plenty of places just like this for you to enjoy. We even have opportunities for workamping – a mix of camping with part-time, for-pay work! That’s right: you can get paid to camp.

The BLM’s Burns District is potentially looking for summer campground hosts for Page Springs, Fish Lake and South Steens Campgrounds on Steens Mountain, and at Chickahominy Reservoir near Riley. If you are interested in spending the summer outdoors, getting to know new people and new areas, and being involved in the use and welfare of our county’s public lands, take this opportunity to apply. Hosting begins as soon as possible.

Hosts must be at least 18 years old, provide a trailer, camper or motor home and be willing to stay at the site for a minimum of three months, and are expected to work weekends and holidays with the option of two mid-week days off.  Amenities vary by campground, but where available, the BLM provides a host site, water, electricity, garbage collection, and a sump dump station. A monthly subsistence is also paid per individual or as a couple.

In an increasingly urbanized West, recreational opportunities and settings like camping and campgrounds are vital to the general well-being of both residents and guests. Thousands of people come to explore Harney County  each year, and campground hosts play an important role in helping travelers have a comfortable, fun and quality recreation experience.

To inquire about or apply for a position, interested volunteers should call Tara Thissell at the Burns District BLM office at 541-573-4519.  An in-person or phone interview, Federal background check, and electronic banking information are required for this position.