Several of Indiana’s state parks, forests and state recreation areas, including Starve Hollow near Vallonia, are looking for volunteers to serve as campground hosts in exchange for free camping during their service.

Hosts work a minimum of 20 hours per week. The length of the volunteer period varies by property based on the number of applicants and on the amount and type of work required.

Properties are looking for dedicated campers who enjoy working outdoors with people and Department of Natural Resources staff.

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area is looking for one camp host who can stay March, April, November and December. Duties include selling firewood, ensure camping fees are collected when office and gates area closed, assisting with after-hours cabin check-ins, pumping boats after rain, providing informal security, picking up trash and locking the beach house after hours.

Other possible duties include assisting at the education center and at the office with clerical work and helping staff with minor troubleshooting or general maintenance.

A complete list of site availability and detailed information about hosting duties are at stateparks.IN.gov/2404.htm or contact the property where you would like to serve as a host.

Completion of a volunteer application is required to apply. Download a volunteer application form at stateparks.IN.gov/2443.htm.