Volunteers are being sought by the Umatilla National Forest to serve as campground hosts at Olive Lake and Penland Lake, where they will greet campers, provide local information, and maintain essential facilities. This search forest notice explains that individuals or couples may apply, with many retirees choosing to take part.
Hosts are expected to supply their own trailer, camper or motor home, but they receive a free campsite near the main entryway. They also benefit from a food allowance, propane provision, and potential mileage reimbursement for travel directly related to hosting duties.
Olive Lake Campground is listed as 12 miles southwest of Granite and sits on a 90-acre alpine lake. It features 28 campsites, seven accessible vault toilets, a 2-mile hiking trail, and boat ramp facilities.
Those who lend their time at Olive Lake typically do so from early June through Labor Day, ensuring a hospitable environment for visitors who come to enjoy nearby wilderness trails and scenic water activities. The opportunity to greet summertime guests on the shore of a high mountain lake appeals to many nature enthusiasts.
Penland Lake Campground spans land administered by the Forest Service and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, situated about 20 miles southeast of Heppner. Seven sites fall under the national forest portion, while ODFW’s managed sections include additional campsites beyond the Forest Service sites.
At Penland Lake, hosts generally commit from Memorial Day through mid-November to oversee a popular destination for fishing, boating, and swimming. A boat ramp, fishing dock, and benches near the dam provide conveniences for campers.
Prospective volunteers interested in applying for Olive Lake are advised to contact Christy Lawhead at 541-427-5329 or [email protected], while inquiries for Penland Lake should go to Jody Collins at 541-676-2155 or [email protected]. Anyone wanting to confirm these details is encouraged to consult the official Umatilla National Forest website directory or verify the USDA email domains.
Beyond these immediate details, many campground operators adopt structured volunteer host training programs that reinforce daily responsibilities and emergency preparedness. A standardized orientation handbook, conflict-resolution guidance, and regular check-ins can help maintain consistent service quality and guest satisfaction.
Such measures can be relevant for the Umatilla National Forest, where rotating hosts must keep campgrounds welcoming and ensure cleanliness. With a clear framework in place, volunteers often feel more confident handling tasks such as restroom upkeep, supply restocking, and minor maintenance.
Enhancing guest engagement through technology is another step modern campgrounds can take. Even a simple platform outlining site maps, local attractions, and crucial updates can reduce reliance on printed materials and help visitors receive timely information.
Offering Wi-Fi in common areas helps volunteers quickly address visitor inquiries about directions, weather conditions, and area activities. Portable digital signage can further guide campers to relevant updates, key events, or seasonal advisories.
Soon, interested applicants can explore these host opportunities directly through the forest’s volunteer program, which values individuals ready to uphold a welcoming environment at Olive Lake and Penland Lake. The Forest Service reminders highlight a meaningful chance to steward scenic public lands while helping campers enjoy the best of Oregon’s outdoor recreation.