Groundskeeper

Pennsylvania work-camping runs April through November with two distinct peaks. Summer (June-August) is busy across the system. Fall foliage in the Poconos, Laurel Highlands, and northern PA (early-to-mid October) brings a strong second peak. Pennsylvania's 124 state parks and 2.2 million acres of state forest mean there's geographic variety from Lake Erie down to the southern border.

Pay rates for Pennsylvania work-camping positions cluster between $17.99/hour and $32.00/hour for most positions, based on listings currently in our database. Camp host roles that include a free RV site typically pay at the lower end. Maintenance, front-desk lead, and activities-coordinator positions pay at the higher end. Some volunteer state-park host positions trade work hours for a free full-hookup site instead of a paycheck — the site itself is often worth $600-$1,500/month in equivalent value.

Pennsylvania DCNR host sites are within the campground at the assigned park. Site quality varies — the larger destination parks (Cook Forest, Ricketts Glen, Worlds End) typically have better host site infrastructure. Private campgrounds in the Poconos and Laurel Highlands often include a free or discounted RV site.

Yes — Pennsylvania's Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) launched a new statewide Conservation Volunteer system covering all 124 state parks and 2.2 million acres of state forest land. Hosts serve as live-in volunteers at a state park campground or cabin colony, greeting campers, assisting, and performing light maintenance. Background clearances required (PA Criminal History + PA Child Abuse). Apply through pa.gov/services/dcnr/become-a-dcnr-conservation-volunteer.