The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is currently recruiting outdoor recreation enthusiasts looking for a unique opportunity to challenge their skills. The DNR is seeking volunteer campground hosts for its Lime Island State Recreation Area. The 980-acre island, one of the newest recreation areas in Michigan’s state park system, is situated in the St. Mary’s River Navigation Channel some three miles offshore of the eastern end of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
The island offers rental cabins, platform tent sites, a small harbor of refuge, historical structures and boating access. Hosts for Lime Island must use their own boat to travel to and from the island.
Hosts are expected to provide 30 hours of service per week (including weekends and holidays) and are required to live on the island a minimum of four consecutive weeks at a time during the summer season, which runs between the end of May and early September. During their weeks of service, hosts can choose to live in the island’s host cabin or have their camping fees waived.
Lime Island hosts greet arriving visitors and answer questions about the island that once housed a small settlement. In addition, they are required to arrange campground activities and possibly perform some light maintenance. Public use of motorized vehicles is not allowed on the island; however, hosts have access to an all-terrain vehicle while on the island.
When not working, hosts can enjoy fishing or watching the large freighters churn past the island as they make their way through the Great Lakes. The island offers many trails to explore and a beach is within close proximity to the host cabin. Hosts must be at least 18 years old and can apply individually or as couples.
For more information about serving as a host at Lime Island State Recreation Area, contact Straits State Park, 906-643-8620, or Miguel Rodriguez, 517-241-4129.
