Are you considering life on the road and wondering how to make an income as you travel? Long time full-time RVers and workampers share about this RV lifestyle so you can decide if it is right for you!

Key Takeaways

• Workamping can be a great way to fund your RV adventures
• Opportunities can be long-term or seasonal
• Some jobs are paid while others are in exchange for a campsite
• Always get a contract or all of the job details in writing

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What Is Workamping All About?

If you’re considering a life on the road, workamping can be an ideal way to fund your travels and embrace a sense of adventure.

Workampers are individuals or couples who combine part-time or full-time work with RV camping.

This lifestyle offers you the flexibility to pursue multiple types of jobs while saving money living in your RV.

As a workamper, you’ll find opportunities in various fields. Some of them may even surprise you.

From campground hosts or maintenance workers to retail sales or seasonal farm work, there’s no shortage of jobs that cater to different interests and skill sets.

With a strong community of fellow workampers to support you, this lifestyle can open doors to unique experiences and lasting memories.

Definition of Workampers

Workampers are adventurous individuals, couples, or families who combine part-time or full-time work with RV camping, creating a unique and fulfilling lifestyle.

As a workamper, you can explore a variety of work opportunities due to this nomadic RV lifestyle, get to know many places, and meet new people.

Seasonal Versus Long-Term Workamping Jobs

Most workamping positions are seasonal during peak camping seasons or peak business operations. However, some campgrounds or businesses that operate year-round provide long-term workamping positions.

Long-Term Workamper Jobs

While most workamping jobs are seasonal, there are long-term or permanent work camping jobs available. Sometimes seasonal positions also turn into longer opportunities.

Who Are Long Term Workamping Positions Good For?

Need to stay in an area for a while to take care of business, medical needs, or just to catch up on life for a while? A long term workamping gig may be perfect for you.

Love an area in your travels and considering settling back down? This could be a great way to get reestablished during the transition.

Sometimes you just need a break from traveling for a little while. RVing full-time can honestly get exhausting at times.

Longer opportunities can give you a break from the road.

Places That Offer Long-Term Workamper Jobs

This list may surprise you!

Campgrounds

Campgrounds that are open year-round often need help during all times of the year. Positions like maintenance, office, or even campground managers can become long-term or even permanent jobs.

One benefit of workamping longer term is that you can also receive not just pay for your position but also benefits.

RV Transporter

Do you own a big truck that you use to tow a large travel trailer or fifth wheel?

Some RVers with a large truck or a dually, work delivering and transporting RVs from dealerships to customers or from the manufacturers to the dealerships.

This is an extremely popular way for RVers to make money in the Elkhart, Indiana area where most of the RV manufacturers in the US are located.

RV transporters make great money, and if you are flexible with your location, this could be the perfect workamping gig for you.

Gate Guard Jobs For RVers

Oil fields offer a unique longer-term workamping opportunity for RVers that spend time in Texas. These positions use RV travelers to work the guard station at the entrance of in-use oil fields.

Gate guarding works well for couples because the jobs often require shifts to cover the gate 24 hours per day while staying onsite in your RV.

The position may offer RV hookups but some of the jobs are dry camping right there next to the gate. This position pays extremely well and is sometimes competitive to get.

Digi-Key

Both long-term and seasonal workamper positions are often available at Digi-Key in Minnesota.

Digi-Key is one of the largest electronics companies in the world and they often hire large numbers of workampers to work in their order fulfillment warehouse. 

While working for Digi-Key you may work any shift in this 24-hour operation. They offer picking, packing, and migration positions.

The pay ranges from $18-$20 per hour depending on the shift worked and overtime is often available. Some overtime may be mandatory.

The job also includes a campsite nearby. For RV workampers that want to work the seasonal sugar beet harvest, Digi-Key is located nearby for back to back job opportunities.

Seasonal Workamping Jobs

Most workampers take seasonal jobs while traveling across the country. There are many seasonal opportunities to find a position to meet your needs.

Who Are Seasonal Workamping Jobs Perfect For?

Seasonal workamping is great for RVers that don’t want to stay in one place too long but want to earn an income as they travel.

Every seasonal job varies in length, and some workcamping positions can even become longer-term if desired. 

Places To Find Seasonal Workamper Jobs

Campgrounds

Campgrounds can fall under seasonal or long-term job positions. It depends on the campground location and the operating season.

Campgrounds that have a shorter operating season due to weather often offer short-term workamping jobs.

Even campgrounds that are open year-round usually have seasonal positions for workampers that don’t want to commit to a long-term job.

Seasonal jobs at campgrounds can include grounds maintenance, housekeeping, activities coordinator, ranger, store, and reception. 

One common type of workamper position is a Camp Host. In this role, you are responsible for welcoming guests to a campground, providing information, giving assistance, and ensuring the campsite runs smoothly.

Your tasks might include managing reservations, maintaining campground cleanliness, and handling any emergencies that arise.

Camp hosts also often sell firewood and handle after-hours issues with campers. They may even patrol the campground enforcing rules.

Camp hosting allows you to fully immerse yourself in the RV lifestyle, staying at beautiful locations while earning a living.

Jobs at campgrounds can be part-time, full-time, seasonal, or permanent. The payment can include the cost of your campsite and utilities as well as other amenities.

While some work camping campground jobs are volunteer, many are paid per hour. Some even offer a bonus for completing the season.

Workamping is a great way to earn money or save money while RV living.

Amusement Parks

Amusement parks and other seasonal tourist attractions often hire workampers to help staff larger businesses.

Two popular amusement parks that hire workcampers are Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, TN, and Adventureland in Altoona, IA.

Working at a theme park could be a fun and different seasonal opportunity while exploring an area.

Dollywood offers some unique perks, including discounts and free tickets to many other area attractions.

We happen to love Pigeon Forge and could spend the whole season exploring the beautiful area located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Seasonal Customer Service & Retail

Did you know that many large seasonal resorts and outdoor attractions also hire workampers?

National park concessionaires such as Yellowstone National Park’s Xanterra hire large numbers of work campers each year for food service, gift shops, lodging, and tours.

What a great way to spend the summer working while exploring a national park. It’s also a great place to camp during your position!

Farms And The Sugar Beet Harvest

Small and large farms hire workampers to help during harvest times. The most known example is the annual sugar beet harvest which draws a huge number of those work camping every fall in Minnesota.

The sugar beet harvest is a great way to try something new while earning a lot in a short amount of time.

Also called the Unbeetable Experience, working just 2 weeks for the American Crystal Sugar Company can earn most workampers up to $4,200.

Camping fees are paid during the job and there are also opportunities to stay longer for those hearty campers willing to tough out the cooler temps.

If you stay the whole season there is a bonus. If working in a field doesn’t sound appealing, there are also non-field jobs available.

Some workampers work the beet harvest and then head over to Digi-Key for another nearby workamping opportunity. 

See more about Digi-Key above under long-term opportunities. This position can be both seasonal or long-term to meet your needs.

Firework Stands, Pumpkin Patches, And Christmas Tree Lots

Seasonal opportunities exist for workcampers at temporary parking lot or farm tourist businesses.

These businesses sometimes hire workampers to watch over inventory at night or to work the sales of the seasonal store.

These quick opportunities to make some money on the road can be found all over the country. They are best for RVers that have boondocking equipment and don’t mind dry camping in a parking lot or on the farm property.

Finding Workamping Jobs

Workamper News and Job Listings

Workamping jobs are available on websites like Workamper News, where you can find various job postings and information relevant to your interests.

Browsing through these listings helps you discover opportunities for free campsites and employment possibilities.

Make sure to check for regular updates, as new job offers might appear frequently.

Online Resume and Job Searches

Having an online resume makes it easier for employers to find you. Utilize websites like Workers on Wheels to submit your resume and search for available workamping jobs.

This paid membership platform allows you to view diverse job opportunities from different employers within the RV and camping industry, thus increasing your chances of finding the perfect fit.

State Parks and National Parks

State and National Parks offer workamping opportunities to maintain and preserve their grounds.

Look for job openings directly on the websites of the parks you are interested in. For example, you can visit the National Park Service job website for postings within the U.S. National Parks system.

You may also contact State Parks offices to inquire about available workamper positions.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Other Organizations

The U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers manages numerous campgrounds throughout the country, providing workamping opportunities for those interested in maintaining and enhancing these recreational sites.

Contact the local Army Corps office to inquire about job postings and volunteer opportunities.

Other Great Websites For Workamping Jobs:

• Workcampingjobs.com
• Kamperjobs.com
• Happyvagabonds.com
• KOA
• Thousand Trails
• Sun Communities
• Vista Recreation
• Cool Works
• Cool Jobs

Facebook Groups For Workamping

Facebook groups dedicated to workampers are a valuable resource to network with others work camping and to find jobs.

Some groups are dedicated to paid workcamping positions, while others are for reviews of work camping employers so you know what to expect.

Our Favorite Facebook Groups For Workampers

• Workampers
• Workamping Jobs With Wages
• Workamping In The USA
• Workamping For Full Time RVers
• Workamper Reviews

Considering these various resources and being proactive in your search will enhance your chances of finding workamping jobs that suit your unique interests and skill sets.

Benefits and Challenges of Workamping

Pros: Free or Discounted RV Sites and Campgrounds

One of the significant advantages of workamping is that you often get access to free or discounted RV sites and campgrounds.

This perk makes workamping a financially appealing opportunity, as you can save money on RV living expenses while enjoying your stay.

Moreover, you can experience new places and facilities that you might not have been able to afford otherwise.

Pros: Meeting New People and Experiencing New Places

As a workamper, you can meet new people and experience all the great places that RV camping offers.

Since many workamping jobs are short-term, you can travel and explore various locations without breaking the bank.

This lifestyle gives you the opportunity to explore new lands, meet typically outdoorsy, adventurous people, and build connections with like-minded individuals from all walks of life.

Cons: Hard Work and Potential for Long Hours

However, workamping is not all fun and games. It requires hard work and dedication.

Some positions, such as campground hosts or maintenance staff, can be physically demanding.

Additionally, the hours of work may vary depending on the job and the season.

While you might have a set schedule with reasonable work hours, there could be instances when you may need to put in extra hours to accommodate the campground’s needs or deal with emergencies.

Cons: Balancing Work and Recreation While on the Road

Finally, it’s essential to maintain a healthy balance between work and recreation while workamping.

Since your primary purpose of being on the road is to enjoy your time and explore new places, it can be challenging to stay focused on work, especially when you’re surrounded by beautiful landscapes and exciting activities.

You’ll need to find a balance between your responsibilities at the campground and your desire to experience your new surroundings fully.

This balancing act requires discipline and commitment not to lose sight of your goals during your workamping journey.

Workamping Lifestyles and Experiences

Full-Time and Part-Time Workamping

Workamping can be a rewarding lifestyle choice for both full-time and part-time RVers. Whether you’re looking for a way to fund your RV travels or simply want to stay active and engaged while on the road, the opportunities are abundant.

Full-time workampers often secure long-term positions or string together several short-term jobs throughout the year, while part-time workampers may balance work with relaxation and exploration.

Both options can help you build your team player skills, meet fellow workampers, and create a community on the road. 

Our Favorite Workamping Position

One of our favorite workamping positions was at an oceanfront RV resort in the Florida Keys. 

We were steps from the ocean and had lots of time to swim and paddleboard during hours off.

The most surprising part of the job was all of the amazing people we met visiting the resort.

The job was also much harder with longer hours than expected.

The resort had a hard time with staffing, and the employees were all dumped on regularly due to the shortage.

At least now we can say that we lived on an island. It was a once and a lifetime experience!

Real Life Stories and Own Experiences

Your workamping lifestyle will be unique to your interests, skills, and needs.

By connecting with fellow workampers and sharing your own experiences, you can learn about new opportunities and build friendships on the road.

For example, you might meet a couple who spent the summer working at a beautiful national park, enjoying hikes on their days off.

Or perhaps you’ll encounter a solo traveler who found their dream job at a vintage RV restoration shop, applying their woodworking skills in exchange for a place to park.

As you become part of the workamping community, make sure to share your own stories and insights to help others forge their path as well.

Overall, workamping is an adaptable and exciting way to combine your love of travel and RV living with rewarding work experiences.

Keep an open mind, network with fellow workampers, and enjoy the journey!

Scott during a workamping job in the Florida Keys

Tips for Success in Workamping

Finding the Right Workamping Opportunity

As a workamper, your main goal is to find the best way to enjoy new experiences and make money while traveling.

To ensure success in workamping, consider the type of work you enjoy and the places you’d like to visit.

Private RV parks, national parks, and campgrounds offer numerous workamping opportunities.

You’ll most likely be responsible for customer service, maintenance, or administrative tasks.

Start your search by visiting websites dedicated to connecting workampers with employers. Check out the resources listed above in this article.

Conducting Phone Interviews and Assessing Potential Workampers

Before accepting a workamping opportunity, make sure to conduct phone interviews with potential employers.

Prepare questions that help you understand the specifics of the job, such as work hours, responsibilities, and compensation.

Always get these details in writing or a contract before traveling to a job!

During the phone call, also assess whether your potential workampers and the RV park’s management share the same values and expectations.

Finding a suitable match is crucial to ensure a successful and enjoyable workamping experience.

Becoming a Valuable Team Player and Contributing to the Work Environment

To thrive in a workamping position, focus on becoming a valuable team player.

This means understanding your strengths and weaknesses and using them effectively to contribute to the work environment.

Here are some tips to help you excel in your workamping role:

• Communicate effectively: Establish open lines of communication with your fellow RV workers and management. Honest and clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page.
• Be adaptable: As a workamper, you may need to perform various tasks and adapt to different scenarios. Embrace change with a positive attitude and be ready to assist where needed.
• Show initiative: Demonstrate a willingness to take on new responsibilities and tackle challenges proactively. This attitude will prove your dedication and commitment to your employer.

Following these tips, you will increase your chances of finding the best workamping opportunities, ensure success during phone interviews, and become a valuable team player, contributing positively to your work environment.

FAQs What Do Workampers Do

What types of jobs can workampers expect?

As a workamper, you can expect to find jobs in a wide range of industries, including campgrounds, hospitality, retail, amusement parks, and more. The work can be part-time or full-time, and can sometimes be seasonal or year-round, depending on the position and employer. 

How much do workampers typically earn?

The earnings of workampers can vary depending on the job type. Workampers might receive free or discounted campsite accommodations, and utilities as part of the compensation.

Are any specific skills required for workamping?

While many workamping jobs don’t require specialized skills, having experience in customer service or maintenance is often helpful. Employers usually provide training for workamper positions, but having relevant skills can set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of securing the job.

What are the benefits of being a workamper?

Being a workamper offers benefits, such as traveling, exploring new locations, and making lifelong memories. Workamping also offers a unique way to earn an income and save on RV living expenses. 

Where are typical workamper job locations?

Workamper jobs can be found across the United States. Popular destinations include national parks, campgrounds, and resort areas. However, there are workamping opportunities on farms and many other locations.

How do you find workamper opportunities?

To find workamper opportunities, you can browse websites such as workamper.com, which provide job listings, resources, and information about workamping. Joining social media groups focused on workamping can also help you find potential employers.

What are workampers?

Workampers are individuals, couples, or families who combine part-time or full-time work with RV camping. They often travel and work in various locations, allowing them to explore new areas while earning an income. 

Is Becoming Workampers Part Of Your RV Travel Goals?

Workamping is a great way to fund your full-time RV adventures while still being able to explore. Most workampers appreciate the flexibility and experiences offered through these unique jobs.

Workampers find amazing places to stay while still traveling and enjoying RV living! Do you plan to try work camping?