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Hartwick Pines Memorial Building host program

log interior of memorial building

Hartwick Pines Memorial Building host program

Hartwick Pines State Park, located just northeast of Grayling, is seeking volunteer hosts for the park's Memorial Building. Hosts will camp for free at the park's campground and present programs and lead tours. The host schedule is designed for volunteers to enjoy recreational activities while providing valuable volunteer services.

The Memorial Building is a popular landmark. The rustic, lodge-style building was completed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and served as the park's visitor center until 1994. Visitors to the building include generational visitors with fond memories of the park, and architecture and history lovers. 

This year's program will take place May 23-Sept. 2, 2024. Hosts are required to participate a minimum of one week and a maximum of one month.

Hosts serve singly or in teams and can be made up of family members or friends. Hosts are given the opportunity to camp for free at site #2 in the Hartwick Pines State Park campground, which has electrical hookups and can fit tents, campers and RVs up to 40 feet. Hosts may bring pets if a member of your team will remain at the campsite.

Primary duties

Duties include greetings visitors, helping special guests with program setup (i.e. yoga teacher), providing historical information Thursday through Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). You may be asked to open the building outside of those hours during special events. Hosts will also perform basic facility maintenance such as sweeping and dusting. Hosts will also be asked to sell merchandise on behalf of the Friends of Hartwick Pines State Park

Hosts should be comfortable communicating with the public and able to walk or travel about 500 feet from the parking lot to the Memorial Building. People with excellent customer service skills are especially encouraged to apply. An optional (but highly recommended) virtual training will take place April 22, 2024 at 7 p.m. Each host will also receive a brief orientation upon arrival.

Frequently asked questions »

Eligibility

  • Must be 18 or older and provide your own camping equipment, food and other personal items.
  • Ability to work at least five days a week, including weekends and holidays (totaling 30 hours per week).
  • Must pass a background check.
  • DNR employees are not eligible.

Applications due March 31

2024 applications available Dec. 1, 2023. Mail completed forms to Hillary Pine, Hartwick Pines State Park, 4216 Ranger Road, Grayling, MI 49738.

For more information please contact Hillary Pine via email or call 989-348-2537