On today’s episode, we head to the breathtaking Catskill Mountains of upstate New York to visit the Catskill Mountains Gilboa KOA to talk to one of its owners about the many opportunities to find Workamping jobs there.

Owner Cathy Reinard purchased the campground just a few years ago and has transformed it into a scenic retreat where guests can relax beside the Schoharie Creek, surrounded by mountain views, bald eagles and plenty of wide-open green space for recreation.

Cathy described her park as being terraced along the side of a mountain, offering about 300 sites ranging from rustic tent spots to deluxe full-hookup RV sites and even cozy cabins.

She said her goal is to give guests a variety of price points and experiences while maintaining KOA’s signature clean restrooms, family-friendly amenities and a peaceful atmosphere.

Because of the campground’s size and busy summer season, Cathy brings in about eight to 10 Workampers to fill positions in maintenance, housekeeping, at the front desk and leading activities.

She welcomes families, couples and solo Workampers, and values a team that blends the energy of local high school or college students with the experience and reliability of Workampers.

If you’re looking for a Workamping position in a peaceful, mountain setting with lots of green space and natural beauty, then the Catskill Mountains Gilboa KOA might be the perfect fit.

Their season typically runs from Mother’s Day through Columbus Day, and the team works together to make sure every guest has a memorable stay.

Cathy looks for dependable, drama-free applicants with a willingness to learn.

Whether it’s cleaning cabins, mowing grass, leading crafts for kids or greeting guests at check-in, she said flexibility is the key to success at her park.

Workampers enjoy paid positions starting at $16 an hour, plus a free RV site with propane and a $100 monthly allowance to help cover electricity.

They also have the chance to live in one of the most beautiful parts of New York, close to Cooperstown, historic museums and within a few hours of New York City.

Cathy said she appreciates initiative, so if you think you’d be a great fit, don’t hesitate to reach out directly.

The Catskill Mountains Gilboa KOA is more than a workplace, it’s a campground where Workampers can enjoy nature, connect with travelers from around the world, and create memories that last long after the season ends.

For a closer look at the campground, visit koa.com/campgrounds/catskill. There you’ll find photos of the facilities and learn more about the park’s amenities.

To apply for a Workamping job, visit workatkoa.com and search for Catskill Mountains Gilboa KOA. You can also look for the park’s listings on the Workamper News Facebook group, where Cathy posts open positions.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Workamper News. Much more than just a job-listing website, when you put the tools of this professional service into action, you’ll find out just how easy it can be to turn your Workamping dreams into reality.

A Workamper membership opens the door to a one-stop-shop for all-things Workamping. Being the original resource for Workamping, you’ll find the largest number of job listings, be able to connect with a community of Workampers, and view resources compiled by experts who have been enjoying the RV lifestyle for many years.

If you’re serious about leading a successful and enjoyable Workamping lifestyle, then membership is for you. Join today at www.workamper.com. Embark on new adventures today with the support of Workamper News behind you!

That’s all for this week’s show. Next time I will be speaking with a father who travels with his two children and created a platform to chronical their adventures. I’ll have that interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show. Thank you for listening!

This week we will delve into the important topic of workers compensation insurance. It can be a big help for workers injured on the job, and a tricky requirement for employers to navigate.

Today’s guest is Irene Jones. She is an insurance professional with more than 14 years of experience in the campground and hospitality industry.

Irene helped develop a national campground insurance program with Marshall and Sterling, and she has a deep understanding of how workers’ compensation affects employers and employees in this unique line of work.

Today she works as an independent insurance consultant helping businesses of all types with their insurance needs.

In this conversation, Irene explains what workers’ compensation is, why it exists and how it protects both sides when a workplace injury occurs.

Whether you own a business or work as a seasonal employee, it’s important to understand how this insurance functions because it determines what happens if you or someone you work with gets hurt while on the job.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a much clearer understanding of what workers’ compensation covers, how it applies in the Workamping world and why every employer and employee should take it seriously.

Workers’ compensation can be confusing, especially when people mix up the differences between W-2 employees, 1099 contractors and volunteers.

Irene reminds us that classification matters because it determines whether an injury is covered or not.

If you’re a W-2 employee, you’re usually covered under your employer’s workers’ compensation policy, which pays for medical bills and lost wages if you’re hurt while doing your job.

But if you’re working as a 1099 independent contractor, then you’re typically on your own. Contractors are responsible for carrying their own insurance, and they’re not covered under an employer’s policy unless state regulators later decide they were misclassified.

Volunteers working at for-profit organizations are a gray area. Irene made it clear that there are no true volunteers in a for-profit business. Volunteers working for non-profit organizations may be covered under a special policy, or may need to rely on their own insurance.

So, if you’re working in exchange for a free RV site or any other benefit that has a monetary value, then that should be treated as wages for insurance purposes.

The key takeaway is that before starting any job, ask your employer whether they carry workers’ compensation insurance and whether you are covered under it.

That simple question could save a lot of confusion and financial hardship if an accident ever prevents a Workamper from being able to work, even for a short time.

For more information about workers’ compensation, the U.S. Commerce Department has set up a special website addressing frequently asked questions. That site can be found at www.commerce.gov/hr/employees/health-and-safety/workers-compensation.

Businesses can email Irene at [email protected] or connect with her on LinkedIn.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Workamper News. Much more than just a job-listing website, when you put the tools of this professional service into action, you’ll find out just how easy it can be to turn your Workamping dreams into reality.

A Workamper membership opens the door to a one-stop-shop for all-things Workamping. Being the original resource for Workamping, you’ll find the largest number of job listings, be able to connect with a community of Workampers, and view resources compiled by experts who have been enjoying the RV lifestyle for many years.

If you’re serious about leading a successful and enjoyable Workamping lifestyle, then membership is for you. Join today at www.workamper.com. Embark on new adventures today with the support of Workamper News behind you!

That’s all for this week’s show. I will have another interesting interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show. Thank you for listening.

This week we are going to talk about one of the most revered highways in America, Route 66, and why you should make plans to travel along America’s Highway from Chicago to Santa Monica, Calif.

Today’s guest is Jim Hinckley, one of America’s foremost historians on Route 66, and the creator of Jim Hinckley’s America travel network.

It is a multimedia project dedicated to “telling people where to go” by celebrating small-town life, vintage Americana and the joy of road trips across the United States.

For decades, Jim has been sharing stories about the Mother Road through his books, videos, website and popular “Coffee with Jim” podcast.

He’s written 23 books, including “Route 66: 100 Years,” a centennial anthology that chronicles the past, present and future of America’s most famous highway.

His work reaches hundreds of thousands of fans each month across multiple platforms, all united by a love of adventure and the open road.

In this conversation, Jim explains how Route 66 — officially decommissioned as a U.S. highway in 1985 — continues to thrive as an international symbol of freedom and exploration.

He shares fascinating stories about the road’s origins, its many realignments, and the quirky landmarks that have made it a living time capsule of 20th-century Americana.

You’ll also learn how the route inspired travelers around the world, from Europe to Japan, to fall in love with the Great American road trip.

After hearing about Jim’s passion for Route 66, it’s easy to understand why the “Main Street of America” remains one of the most beloved travel experiences in the world.

More than just a road, it’s a journey through living history where people can enjoy a collection of small towns, mom-and-pop diners, neon motels and nostalgic roadside attractions that capture the spirit of a bygone era.

Traveling the route offers something for everyone, such as breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and a direct connection to the pioneering spirit that shaped modern America.

Whether you explore the 13-mile stretch through Kansas, wander through Arizona’s old mining town of Oatman, or cross Missouri’s historic Devil’s Elbow bridge, you’ll discover that Route 66 is as much about the people as the pavement.

Jim encourages travelers to start planning their own experience with resources like the Route 66 Navigation App and the “EZ66 Guide” by Jerry McClanahan.

Jim’s own website offers stories, maps, photos and travel tips designed to help you get the most out of your trip. You can find it at www.JimHinckleysAmerica.com.

So before the centennial celebration begins, pack your camera, fill your tank and get ready to get your kicks on Route 66.

Because, as Jim likes to say, it’s not just a road; it is America’s longest small town. And there’s no better way to experience its history than behind the wheel of your own great adventure.

That’s all for this week’s show. Now that summer is over, undoubtedly you have made some great travel memories or worked at some wonderful jobs. Why not tell everyone about your experiences as a guest on The Workamper Show podcast.

I encourage you to schedule an interview with me at www.workampershow.com.

We’d love to hear about your Workamping experiences, how you got started RVing, and what you love and dislike about the RVing lifestyle. Help others explore all the different ways to live this great lifestyle by sharing your story.

If you are an employer of Workamper, then we invite you to be on the podcast, too. Share all of the details of your Workamping jobs in a future episode. It only costs a little bit of your time.

Schedule an interview with me today by going to www.workampershow.com. You’ll find the schedule buttons at the bottom of the home page.

Thanks for listening! If you like these interviews please consider leaving a review wherever you download the episodes.

If you order one of Jim’s books from a link above, Workamper News may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

Today we are going to talk about the important topic of retention and why it is critical for employers and Workampers alike.

This week, I’m joined by Jody Anderson Duquette, the owner of Workamper News. Jody has been part of the Workamper community for many years.

She has been helping employers and Workampers to build stronger relationships and create positive experiences in seasonal and part-time jobs.

In our conversation, Jody shared valuable insights about why communication and relationship-building are so important between Workampers and employers.

That’s especially true in the weeks and months between hiring and the actual start date.

She explained that many Workampers line up jobs five to 12 months in advance, which leaves plenty of time for employers to strengthen connections before anyone arrives on site.

For employers, every returning Workamper means less time and money spent recruiting and training new people.

For Workampers, returning to a trusted employer reduces uncertainty and creates a sense of belonging in a community they already know, and creates comfort regarding a system for which they are already familiar.

Jody’s perspective shows that building strong communication systems isn’t just about logistics. It’s also about creating a culture of trust, familiarity and excitement that benefits everyone.

As she explained, retention is critical for Workampers and employers. Some of the top takeaways from this conversation include:

Strong communication before, during and after a season helps identify problems early, manage expectations and build the kind of loyalty that keeps Workampers coming back.

When employers put in the effort to connect, whether through simple texts, mailed welcome packets or scheduled check-ins, they create a foundation of trust that encourages Workampers to honor commitments and return for future seasons.

Employers who focus on retention by nurturing those relationships will enjoy smoother operations, happier teams and a reputation that draws the best Workampers year after year.

More information is available for employers and Workampers alike on the Workamper.com website.

Why not take a few minutes today to connect with your future employers and Workampers to start building those important relationships?

Today’s episode is brought to you by Workamper News. Since 1987, they’ve been helping businesses of all types find and recruit Workampers. Workampers serve in a variety of positions around the country to help further the mission of great businesses.

When you become an employer member at Workamper.com, you’ll have access to resources and support to help you develop and implement your Workamper recruiting strategy.

In today’s market, it is more challenging than ever to keep a flow of applicants coming in. Workamper News recommends advertising your current and future Workamper job openings frequently throughout the year, as well as scheduling some time to regularly search the Workamper Resume Database because new Workampers are joining daily.

Workampers like to plan many months ahead, so NOW is the time to take action to begin developing your Workamper team. Learn more and download our quick-start guide for employers at www.workamper.com/employer.

That’s all for this week’s show. Next time, I will be speaking with another employer who is looking for Workampers next spring. I will have that interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show.

Thanks for listening, and if you like these interviews, please consider leaving a review wherever you download the episodes.

Whether you’re a weekend RVer or full-time Workamper, chances are you’ve captured thousands of photos during your travels.

But, what happens if your phone gets lost or your hard drive fails? Unfortunately, many RVers have faced that exact heartbreak, losing years of irreplaceable memories in an instant.

Today, I am speaking with someone who has an ideal solution to preserve and protect digital images.

Angela Andrieux, she is a photographer herself, and a “customer evangelist” with Mylio Photos.

The company developed a unique photo organization platform tailor-made for people who want complete control over their digital memories.

Mylio is especially valuable for Workampers and RVers who capture thousands of images on their journeys across the country, but often struggle with organizing and preserving them.

Instead of uploading all your photos to a remote server, Mylio allows users to store images on their own devices, such as computers, external hard drives and even mobile phones.

The software uses a peer-to-peer connection, meaning your devices talk to each other directly, giving you full control over privacy and data storage.

Mylio uses facial recognition, GPS coordinates and embedded metadata to automatically organize photos by people, places and dates. That means you can easily find a specific photo of your grandchild at a national park, even if it’s buried in a library of 50,000 images.

Angela also shared how Mylio supports a 3-2-1 backup strategy by creating three copies of your media on two different types of devices, with one offsite to safeguard your memories.

She shared a sobering reminder: don’t keep all your photos in one place.

With hard drives prone to failure and internet connections often unreliable on the road, it’s essential to have a smart backup plan. That’s where Mylio Photos can be a game-changer.

The software allows you to centralize your photo library from multiple devices, including phones, tablets, laptops, SD cards and even cloud services like Google Photos or Apple Photos.

Once everything is in one place, Mylio helps you organize, search and retrieve images. Its powerful AI capabilities even read text within images and recognize faces and landmarks. That makes it incredibly easy to find the photo you need, when you need it.

Perhaps most importantly, Mylio doesn’t require an internet connection for day-to-day use. Yet, if you choose to use cloud storage, then Mylio offers encrypted backup options with providers like Backblaze, or you can connect your own services like Amazon S3 or Google Drive.

For just $240 per year, users get access to Mylio’s full suite of tools, with additional cloud storage available, if desired. There’s also a seven-day free trial, plus the opportunity to schedule a one-on-one setup call with an expert to walk you through importing and organizing your digital media.

To learn more or start your free trial, visit www.mylio.com.

Today’s episode was sponsored by Workamper News. Creating a resume can be a cumbersome, intimidating task, especially if you haven’t written a resume in many years.

The unique Workamper News Resume Builder takes you through a step-by-step process to build a complete resume with all the information Workamper employers are looking for when reviewing applications.

Once complete, your resume can be emailed to anyone, and the software tracks when and who you have sent it to.  You can print out the resume or make it into a PDF which can then be uploaded or emailed.

Some employers NEVER ADVERTISE – not via Workamper.com or anywhere else. They find all of their applicants just by searching the Workamper News resume database.  If you don’t have a resume in the Workamper.com database, you will be missing out on some wonderful opportunities.

To open the door to more Workamping jobs, become a Workamper member today by visiting www.workamper.com.

That’s all for this week’s show. I’ll have another fun interview on the next episode of the Workamper Show. Thanks for listening!

Today, we’re diving into a topic that has revolutionized RV travel and how Workampers live and work, that being solar power for RVs.

My guests today are Justin Mowery and Nick Sauble, the co-founders of RV Solar Concepts, a mobile installation business based near Phoenix.

What began as a weekend hobby for these Navy veterans has grown into a thriving enterprise helping RVers enjoy more freedom and flexibility through solar energy.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Whether you’re new to RVing or a seasoned Workamper looking to ditch the generator, this conversation is packed with practical advice, real-world examples and money-saving tips to help you stay powered up wherever the road takes you.

Installing a solar system on your RV can dramatically improve your experience on the road.

Whether you want to camp off-grid, reduce generator noise, keep your fridge and lights running, or leave pets inside your RV without worrying about electricity going out, solar gives you the independence to travel on your own terms.

The key is to start with a clear understanding of your power needs. From there, a custom system using quality components can make your RV feel more like home, with reliable power for everything from basic lighting to complex electronics.

Justin and Nick explained that solar setups are scalable. You can start small and expand over time as your needs evolve.

To learn more or schedule an installation while you’re in the Phoenix area, visit www.rvsolarconcepts.com.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Workamper News. Much more than just a job-listing website, when you put the tools of this professional service into action, you’ll find out just how easy it can be to turn your Workamping dreams into reality.

A Workamper membership opens the door to a one-stop-shop for all-things Workamping. Being the original resource for Workamping, you’ll find the largest number of job listings, be able to connect with a community of Workampers, and view resources compiled by experts who have been enjoying the RV lifestyle for many years.

If you’re serious about leading a successful and enjoyable Workamping lifestyle, then membership is for you. Join today at www.workamper.com. Embark on new adventures today with the support of Workamper News behind you!

That’s all for this week’s show. On the next episode of the Workamper Show, I will be speaking with a representative from Mylio Photos about a unique way to preserve and protect your digital images.

If you like these interviews, please consider leaving a review wherever you download the episodes. Thanks for listening!

Today we are diving into the world of digital marketing with a special focus on search engine optimization, or SEO. It is one of the most powerful and cost-effective ways to get more visibility for your business, whether it is online or a traditional company.

My guest today is Alessia Silvestri, the founder and owner of Foretell Consulting, a digital marketing agency that helps small businesses grow by enhancing their online presence.

With more than 20 years of experience in digital marketing, Alessia started her career in SEO and web development before expanding into pay-per-click advertising, email marketing and website design.

Alessia explains what SEO is, how it works and why it is essential for small businesses today.

She also shares how search engines, like Google, determine which businesses appear in search results, and what steps business owners can take to improve their chances of showing up when potential customers are searching for products or services they offer.

Whether you run a campground, are recruiting Workampers for seasonal employment or operate a business from your RV, you will walk away with practical tips for making your website easier to find online.

As Alessia explained, SEO is not just about keywords. It involves a mix of technical factors, high-quality content and building credibility through online directories and backlinks from other reputable websites.

The good news is that there are several simple things small business owners can do right now to improve their visibility in search engines.

First, make sure you have a complete and optimized Google My Business profile. Include photos, videos, accurate contact information and respond promptly to customer reviews. Post regular updates to your profile to show that your business is active and engaged.

Second, create helpful content on your website that answers common questions your customers may have. Focus on being useful and authentic. That kind of content not only helps with search rankings, but also positions your business as a trusted expert.

Third, take advantage of free directory listings like Bing Places, Apple Maps, Yelp and even your local chamber of commerce. Being listed in multiple online places gives Google more reasons to trust your business and helps customers find you more easily.

I will also note that businesses can elevate their search rankings by being featured on podcasts, like the Workamper Show. It gives the company greater visibility and improves their authority because not every business is featured on podcasts.

Finally, if you are unsure where to start or want to take your digital marketing to the next level, you can reach out to Alessia directly by visiting www.foretellconsult.com.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Workamper News. Much more than just a job-listing website, when you put the tools of this professional service into action, you’ll find out just how easy it can be to turn your Workamping dreams into reality.

A Workamper membership opens the door to a one-stop-shop for all-things Workamping. Being the original resource for Workamping, you’ll find the largest number of job listings, be able to connect with a community of Workampers, and view resources compiled by experts who have been enjoying the RV lifestyle for many years.

If you’re serious about leading a successful and enjoyable Workamping lifestyle, then membership is for you. Join today at www.workamper.com. Embark on new adventures today with the support of Workamper News behind you!

That’s all for this week’s show. Next time, I will be speaking with two gentlemen who are experts in RV solar solutions about how solar power can change your RVing experience. I’ll have that interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show. Thank you for listening and I hope you enjoy the final weeks of the summer of 2025.

Today I will be speaking with a Workamper who is in her 70s and having the time of her life. She gets to visit places she has always wanted to see, and supports herself through a company she started.

Connie Waddell is a 75-year-old solo traveler who proves that adventure has no age limit.

Born and raised in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Connie grew up camping. But, three and a half years ago, she decided to jump into RV life full-time.

She chose a high-top camper van for its convenience and maneuverability. Today, she spends her days boondocking on national forest and BLM land while savoring the freedom of the open road.

Since launching full-time, Connie has been chasing quiet sunsets and waking up to mountain views.

She said the freedom offered by the Workamping lifestyle has been a true gift. But, the most meaningful part has been the incredible people she has met along the way. Several of her fellow travelers have become very close friends.

Connie started Roam Free Threads as a purposeful way to support herself while traveling.

What started as an idea for mugs and T-shirts has grown into an online store offering more than 225 designs. Many of the designs were inspired by her own experiences and those of her fellow nomads.

They include humorous takes about living life in a camper as well as seasonal and pet-themed shirts, Connie’s creativity allows her to enjoy the benefits of Workamping without the demands of a traditional job.

Along the way, Connie has explored some incredible places. Alaska tops her list of favorite destinations. That’s where she worked at a wilderness lodge and marveled at the beauty of the mountains, lakes and even the Northern Lights.

She also treasures her time in the Black Hills of South Dakota. This summer, she is boondocking near Flagstaff, Ariz., not too far from the Grand Canyon.

Connie has traveled extensively throughout the western United States and is now planning adventures that will take her east to pursue dreams of living in Maine or even Newfoundland.

If you’d like to connect with Connie or explore her designs, visit www.roamfreethreads.com. You can also reach her by email at cWaddell70 @ gmail.com.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Workamper News. Much more than just a job-listing website, when you put the tools of this professional service into action, you’ll find out just how easy it can be to turn your Workamping dreams into reality.

A Workamper membership opens the door to a one-stop-shop for all-things Workamping. Being the original resource for Workamping, you’ll find the largest number of job listings, be able to connect with a community of Workampers, and view resources compiled by experts who have been enjoying the RV lifestyle for many years.

If you’re serious about leading a successful and enjoyable Workamping lifestyle, then membership is for you. Join today at www.workamper.com. Embark on new adventures today with the support of Workamper News behind you!

That’s all for this week’s show. Next time, I have an interview that will be of interest mostly to employers and solopreneurs. I will be speaking with a search engine optimization expert about little things companies can do to get to the top listings in search results.

I’ll have that interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show. Thanks for listening, and if you like these interviews, please consider leaving a review wherever you download the episodes.

Today I am talking with a father of three who, along with his wife, enjoyed RVing full-time as a family for more than six years. He has lots of advice to share.

Garrett Syfrett is a husband, father of three, video production specialist, and former full-time RV traveler.

In 2018, Garrett and his wife made the bold decision to sell their home in Washington state and hit the road with their young family in search of a more connected, experience-rich lifestyle.

They had already been homeschooling their children, so when the opportunity came for Garrett’s wife to work as a traveling nurse, they decided to turn her frequently-traveling work opportunities into a full-time family adventure.

Garrett became a stay-at-home dad who documented the family’s journey on a YouTube channel called “Diary of a Family.”

As their travels continued, Garrett expanded his skillset, trained to become a certified RV technician, and eventually started his own video production business called RV Media Creators.

Throughout their six years on the road, the Syfretts visited dozens of states and national parks while “roadschooling” their children through real-world experiences. As the family navigated the joys and challenges of RV life together, they built strong family bonds and made life-changing memories.

Garrett’s on-the-road experiences offers a wealth of insights for families considering the RV lifestyle, especially those with younger children.

He encourages families to embrace the experience, but also to go into it with their eyes wide open.

He encouraged full-time RVing families to keep their sticks-and-bricks house, if possible. The Syfretts sold their home and, when they decided to come off the road, they had to start over from scratch. Garrett said having a property to return to would have made the transition easier.

He also emphasized the importance of community and connection on the road. For his family, joining the Fulltime Families organization was instrumental. It helped their kids find friends and gave them a sense of belonging even while they were constantly on the move.

Garrett advised parents to pay close attention to their kids’ interests and personalities when deciding whether full-time RVing is a good fit.

His kids were young when they started and adapted well because they were already used to being together through homeschooling. But, families who are used to a more structured environment may need more time to adjust, he explained.

In the end, Garrett believes the full-time RVing lifestyle offered priceless lessons. His kids learned to communicate with other children as well as adults, and they got to see 85 percent of the country. Those were hands-on learning opportunities most children will never experience.

If you’d like to follow Garrett and his family’s continued adventures, visit their “Diary of a Family” YouTube channel. To connect with Garrett professionally, visit RV Media Creators or email him at [email protected].

Today’s episode is brought to you by the featured employers at Workamper.com.  These Workamper employers have taken the extra step to share some photos and detailed information about their Workamper programs with you. Check them out today!

Opportunities exist for solos, couples and families, whether they are full-time, part-time, seasonal or even long-term jobs. Some are income opportunities and others involve volunteering at locations throughout the United States. Go to www.workamper.com/fe to meet the featured employers today.

If you are an employer seeking to hire Workampers, then you can learn how to benefit from year-round recruiting by becoming a Featured Employer. Visit www.workamper.com/fedetails.

That’s all for this week’s show. Next time I will be speaking with a woman in her 70s who is having the time of her life traveling by herself in a van. I’ll have that interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show.

If you like these interviews, please consider leaving a review wherever you download the episodes. Thanks for listening!

In today’s episode, we’re heading to the beautiful Pacific Northwest to learn about volunteer opportunities with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) at Oregon’s Willamette Valley Project.

I am interviewing Ranger James Blakely, who describes his recreation system and the role Workampers play in supporting its mission.

The Willamette Valley Project includes 13 dams, each creating scenic lakes surrounded by forested land, boat ramps and peaceful campgrounds.

The Corps manages three of these campgrounds directly and recruits Workampers to help keep them clean, welcoming and well-maintained throughout the busy summer season.

With opportunities ranging from campground hosting to hands-on maintenance roles, this is a great way to enjoy Oregon’s natural beauty while giving back your time to support the USACE mission.

James explained the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Willamette Valley Project is more than just a scenic stretch of Oregon. It is a vibrant recreation system which relies on dedicated volunteers to serve thousands of visitors every year.

Workampers are essential to that mission, and their roles are as rewarding as the landscape is breathtaking.

There are a variety of jobs available, including campground hosts who greet guests, help manage reservations through recreation.gov and provide friendly visitor services.

Maintenance volunteers assist with painting, trail upkeep, watering plants and even managing a recycling program where cans and bottles are redeemed to fund volunteer activities.

One unique perk of working at the Willamette Valley project is that volunteers never have to clean bathrooms because that task is outsourced to contractors.

In exchange for volunteering 20 to 32 hours per week — depending on whether you’re solo or part of a couple — Workampers receive a number of perks. Those include a full-hookup campsite, free laundry access, mileage reimbursement in some cases, and a strong sense of community through appreciation events like ice cream socials and barbecues.

Although most positions are seasonal, the Fern Ridge Lake site offers a year-round opportunity for those who want a longer commitment and enjoy quieter, off-season projects like gatekeeping and light maintenance.

If you’re looking for a beautiful, peaceful setting close to waterfalls, mountain trails and a short distance from the Oregon coast, this might be the perfect Workamping job for you.

To apply, you can search for open positions on volunteer.gov, but the fastest way is to reach out to Ranger James Blakely directly by calling (541) 942-5631 or emailing him your resume describing your past Workamping experiences.

His email address is [email protected].

Even if no listings are currently posted, James encourages potential volunteers to get in touch early, especially if you are looking for volunteer opportunities in 2026 or beyond.

Would you like to be featured in an upcoming episode of The Workamper Show? I encourage you to schedule an interview with me at workampershow.com.

We’d love to hear about your Workamping experiences, how you got started RVing, and what you love and dislike about the RVing lifestyle. Help others explore all the different ways to live this great lifestyle by sharing your story.

If you are an employer of Workampers – we invite you to be on the podcast, too. Share all of the details of your Workamping jobs in a future episode. It only costs a little bit of your time.

Schedule an interview with me today by going to workampershow.com. You’ll find the schedule buttons at the bottom of the home page.

That’s all for this week’s show. I’ll have another fun interview next time with a man who had been full-time RVing with his family for more than eight years. He offers some great tips for Workampers who travel with young children. I’ll have more details on the next episode of The Workamper Show. Thanks for listening.