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Dane County  Land & Water Resources  Parks Division  Adult Conservation Team  Campground Host

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Campground Host Program Information

Where is Dane County Parks?

Dane County, situated In south-central Wisconsin, is a beautiful area rich in natural resources and recreational opportunities. The county abounds in sparkling lakes and waterways, natural areas and trails. It is the home of the University of Wisconsin and the state capital in Madison, and provides a wide variety of cultural, recreational and entertainment opportunities. Dane County Parks has 30 parks and nine resource protection areas. There are five campgrounds, at Babcock, Brigham, Lake Farm, Mendota and Token Creek Parks. The Campground Host Program is part of the Adult Conservation Team, Dane County Parks’ volunteer program.

Are we looking for you?

Our hosts are outgoing and love meeting new people. Our hosts are able to deal positively with different kinds of people and understand the limits of their authority and responsibility. They have strong camping experience, familiarity with the county parks and a knowledge of the area surrounding our campgrounds (or are willing to do what it takes to gain such knowledge).  Hosts provide their own camping unit & telephone for personal use.

What do our hosts do?

Who works with our hosts?

Hosts work closely with staff at the park, and are supervised by the Park Ranger. The Adult Conservation Team manager coordinates the overall host program. Hosts are evaluated by the staff who work with them.

When do our hosts work?

Hosts are on duty at least five days out of seven, with any days off taken mid-week. Daily hours vary, but are generally concentrated in early morning, mid-late afternoon, evening and nights. Hosts are “on call” whenever on site.

How are hosts trained?

Any hosts in the area during May are required to attend a training session at the Dane County Parks office. Others will be trained on site when they arrive. Orientation includes an overview of the park system, the Campground Hosts' Manual and the role of the hosts, blood born pathogens, safety measures and equipment, emergency procedures and orientation to the park. The Department will provide identification, an identified campsite, training, supervision and resource materials. A telephone is provided for park business.

Why Be A Volunteer Campground Host?

Aside from meeting great people and enjoying the pleasant surroundings of one of our campgrounds, camping fees are waived during your term of service. Three of the campgrounds have full hook-up; the others have electricity, with water and dumping facilities available at the campground. Other benefits include socializing and sense of belonging to the park.

May we bring our pet?

Pets are welcome in our campgrounds. You will need to purchase a pet permit and keep your pet on a leash. Off-leash pet exercise areas are available at several County parks.

How do I apply?

Submit your application with the signed waiver(s), references and signed releases for background checks. An interview will be conducted, by telephone if necessary. If a couple is applying, both parties will be interviewed. We will check your references and run a background check. Applicants who are accepted will receive an agreement, to be signed by all the parties. The agreement makes it clear that the volunteer is responsible for his/her own liability.

For information on Dane County Parks’ volunteer Campground Host Program, contact:

Rhea Stangel-Maier
Adult Conservation Team Manager
Dane County Parks
3101 Lake Farm Rd
Madison WI 53711
(608) 224-3601
stangel-maier@co.dane.wi.us

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Revised: December 27, 2001

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