Some Workamping experiences leave a lasting mark not just because of the job, but because of the place itself. Little Redfish Lake in Idaho is one of those special spots.
In this story, Workampers Doug and Lisa Kasefang share what it was like to call this stunning corner of the Sawtooth National Forest “home” while working for Recreational Resource Management of America.
By Doug & Lisa Kasefang
We made it to Chinook Bay Campground in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area on Wednesday, May 11.
Doug towing the RV and me following in the jeep, we were both in AWE, giddy, high-fiving, couldn’t control the joy as we looked around at our summer HOME.
When I look at this area, I just can’t imagine Heaven being more glorious, or anything–anywhere. As with most things, the pictures cannot touch the magnificence. If you ever get a chance, visit this place. Our RV parking spot is to die for. We back up to Little Redfish Creek flowing out our back patio doors. Our front windows view the lake and mountains. Every window is a postcard.
We have no TV or radio reception, and yet we have everything we need: peace, serenity.
We are now employees of Recreational Resource Management of America. We were told we MUST wear uniforms anytime we are working, and they are lovely. Men’s t-shirts and jackets, men’s khaki shirts with badges and green hats. I feel like the Ranger Yogi. So far I cannot figure out how to glam this up.
We are coming up on a week and half of camp hosting. Doug signed on to help with the maintenance crew. Basically he’s on call for all RRMoA’s campgrounds and there are nine, plus several more non-hosted self-serve grounds. He has a company truck and travels all over Redfish lake, Alturas Lake, Petitt Lake, Stanley Lake and Grand Jean 45 mins away. He really enjoys his new office, and the commute isn’t bad either.
I am in charge of Chinook. I personally meet with every camper, register them and collect fees. We just opened two days ago and have had three campers. If full we would have 12. I’ve already met some interesting folks, from the other camp hosts to the campers. This is simply fun stuff! I have been baking cookies for the other hosts and maintenance guys. I have even delivered warm cookies to the campers! (I am going for Camp Host of the Year, and pretty sure being the cookie lady will do it.)
And yes, I get to clean the toilets every day. They are flush toilets and we only have one men’s and one women’s. You can do anything for a short time. Anything.
Yesterday morning, we woke up to 20 degrees and no water. Our water supply had frozen. We now have heat tape on it so that won’t happen again. This morning we’ve had snow, rain, hail, and sunshine all before 11 a.m.
Funny thing about adventures like this: you are never, ever bored.
Workamping at Little Redfish Lake shows how camp hosting can be more than a seasonal assignment – it can feel like belonging to a place. For those seeking both natural beauty and rewarding work, jobs like this offer the best of both worlds. If you’re ready to start your own Workamping adventure, explore current opportunities on the Workamper News Job Listings.
Leave a Reply