The difference between a good camping trip and a great one can come down to the little things that make our stays safer, easier and more enjoyable. It might be knowing about your surroundings, any dangers to watch out for, where the best walking tracks are, or simply where you can wash up and use the restroom. 

That’s where our Campground Hosts come in. 

Why hosts volunteer

Meredith Quick was also a first-time volunteer this summer, taking up temporary residence at The Lakes National Park. 

To her, volunteering as a Campground Host meant offering travellers the kind of experience she has valued while camping.

“I have travelled extensively and enjoyed arriving at campgrounds to be welcomed and advised of facilities – and given tips on how to get to highlights in the national parks,” she said.

For Molly, who is studying Conservation, volunteering was a chance to support the parks she cares deeply about and learn more about the work that goes on to make sure everything runs smoothly. 

“I was excited to gain a better understanding of what our rangers do on a daily basis – and a better respect for all the work that goes into managing campgrounds,” she said.

Images: Meredith was blessed with views like this while volunteering as a Campground Host in The Lakes National Park.

Keeping campers safe in extreme weather 

Campground Hosts play an especially important role when conditions change quickly – from heat and fire risk to storms and park closures.

Making sure campers are informed about any major weather changes is particularly necessary in spots with limited mobile coverage. 

According to Meredith, part of hosting means checking the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) regularly and going around to advise everybody about any severe weather – helping them to protect themselves, and their gear.

Molly was hosting during one of Victoria’s hottest days this summer. 

“There was a 45-degree celcius day approaching, so I spoke with campers with bookings during that time and made sure they knew about the upcoming weather,” she said.

Molly also kept information sheets on hand about restrictions and safety and made time to check in with campers and day hikers to make sure they were prepared.

Community and care while camping

Both Meredith and Molly spoke about the strong sense of community hosting creates – and the way it brings out the best of camping culture.

“Our goal was to leave the park in better condition than when we arrived and help visitors to as well,” Meredith said.

“It’s wonderful to meet so many people who share a love for nature and the outdoors.”

Molly described the role as rewarding and confidence-building – especially as a first-time solo camper.

“I was a little nervous about camping alone for the first time, but after meeting all the different people and families, I felt incredibly secure,” she said.

“I absolutely love getting to meet all the campers. So many people are up for a chat and grateful for our work.

“Some campers helped me to identify the flora and fauna I’d photographed which was really special. I even had meals brought over to my tent a couple of times to thank me for the work I was doing!”

Image: Thousands of Victorians have spent more time in nature by volunterring as a Camground Host.

Want to get involved?

Molly and Meredith are two of more than 6,000 volunteers who have helped shape the Campground Host program over its 25‑year history.

Countless Victorians and visitors alike have treasured memories of camping stays that have been made possible thanks to the work of these passionate volunteers.  

For those who find camping intimidating – Molly, Meredith and every other Campground Host helps to make the experience friendlier and easier. The hosts make sure campers are supported and informed so they can confidently make the most of their time in nature.

If you would like to become a volunteer campground host, you can register here.