For many RVers, earning or saving money through Workamping is an important goal. But those who’ve lived the lifestyle know that some of the biggest rewards go far beyond a paycheck. In fact, Workamping often opens doors to experiences and opportunities that would be hard to come by in ordinary RV life.
Here are some of the non-monetary benefits that make Workamping truly special.
Adventure and New Experiences
One of the best parts of Workamping is the chance to immerse yourself in a location. Staying several months allows you to dig deeper than a tourist passing through for a week.
Through Workamping, I’ve had insider access to things most visitors never see: hidden petroglyphs in national parks, original letters from stampeders during the Klondike Gold Rush, and rare artifacts from the Chilkoot Trail. I’ve flown over glaciers, kayaked in Glacier Bay, and gained memories that money simply can’t buy.
Structure and Purpose
Retirement or long-term travel can sometimes leave people feeling unmoored. Without structure, days slip by in front of the TV, or unhealthy habits creep in.
Workamping adds routine and purpose. Whether it’s checking in campers, maintaining trails, or leading tours, having daily goals helps you stay active, engaged, and fulfilled.
Lifelong Friendships
Workamping isn’t just about the work – it’s about the people you meet along the way. The friendships often last far beyond a season.
Back in 1994, George and I met Ron and Val while Workamping in Colorado. Four years later, we reconnected in Alaska. On our way north another year, we stopped in Oregon to visit them at their summer job. Workamping creates a community that travels with you.
Exploring Bucket-List Places
Want to walk along the Oregon Trail, see the desert Southwest, or spend a winter in Florida? Workamping makes it possible. Employers often hire in some of the most iconic destinations in the U.S. – national parks, historic sites, and coastal retreats.
Instead of rushing through, you’ll live and work right in the middle of the landscapes you’ve always dreamed of visiting.
Staying Close to Family
Workamping can also keep you connected to the people who matter most. Roy and Pat, for example, volunteered at an Ohio state park every other summer so they could watch their grandchildren grow up. The campground was just 30 miles away – close enough for regular visits, but still offering the independence of their RV lifestyle.
Fulfilling a Dream
For some, Workamping is the chance to live out a long-held dream – working at a circus, helping create amusement park magic, riding horses in the Rockies, or finally experiencing Alaska. These opportunities make your “someday” dreams come true.
Time for Hobbies
Do you love fishing, golfing, painting, or photography? Workamping lets you choose jobs that support your hobbies.
- Working at a golf course may include free rounds.
- National park jobs give photographers and artists endless inspiration.
- Resorts near lakes and rivers often provide boats for staff to use.
- Music lovers can follow summer festivals.
With the right assignment, your passion can be built right into your Workamping lifestyle.
Giving Back
Many Workampers choose volunteer positions as a way to contribute. Whether it’s with a nonprofit like Habitat for Humanity, a national or state park, or a local church or RV club, your efforts make a meaningful difference.
These organizations rely heavily on volunteers, and as an RVer, you can bring valuable skills and energy to their missions.
Extra Perks Along the Way
Don’t forget the added bonuses! In Branson, Missouri, workers in guest-facing roles often receive free or discounted show tickets. Friends of mine worked one month and saw 23 shows. Some amusement parks provide family passes after a certain number of hours. Princess Land Tours has even offered free cruises after two summers of work.
Nearby attractions also frequently offer free or discounted tickets to seasonal staff. These perks can add experiences you might never splurge on as a tourist.
The Bigger Payoff
Yes, earning money is valuable. But for many, the real payoff of Workamping is in the adventures, friendships, sense of purpose, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.
Even if you don’t need the money, the lifestyle benefits make Workamping worth your while. Join the adventure, embrace the perks, and create memories that no paycheck could ever replace.
👉 Explore today’s Workamping job opportunities at Workamper.com.
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