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Outdoor Recreation Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Adventure Guide

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Adventure Guide

Western Springs, IL · On-site

$16 - $17.50/hr

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Adventure Guide

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$13 - $14.50/hr

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Adventure Guide

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Adventure Guide

Memphis, TN · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Adventure Guide

Springfield, VA · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Now Hiring: Activity Guide at Unicoi State Park & Lodge Step into a role where every day brings ... Lead and supervises groups and individuals in outdoor recreation programs and adventure activities ...

Now Hiring: Activity Guide at Unicoi State Park & Lodge Step into a role where every day brings ... Lead and supervises groups and individuals in outdoor recreation programs and adventure activities ...

Title: Mooville Guide Department: LDSC Reports To: Tour Operations Manager Employment Type ... Previous customer service experience in an outdoor recreation or safety role. (Preferred) * Be able ...

Now Hiring: Activity Guide at Unicoi State Park & Lodge Step into a role where every day brings ... Lead and supervises groups and individuals in outdoor recreation programs and adventure activities ...

Adventure Guide

Arlington, TX · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Adventure Guide

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Now Hiring: Activity Guide at Unicoi State Park & Lodge Step into a role where every day brings ... Lead and supervises groups and individuals in outdoor recreation programs and adventure activities ...

Showing results 41-60

Outdoor Recreation Guide information

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$9

$32

$67

How much do outdoor recreation guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor recreation guide in the United States is $32.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an outdoor recreation guide do?

An Outdoor Recreation Guide leads individuals or groups on outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, rafting, rock climbing, or camping. They are responsible for planning and organizing trips, ensuring participant safety, providing instruction on equipment and techniques, and sharing knowledge about the local environment and wildlife. Guides often tailor experiences to suit the skill levels and interests of participants, and they may also handle emergency situations if they arise. Their goal is to create a memorable and safe outdoor experience for everyone involved.

What are some common challenges outdoor recreation guides face in the field, and how can they prepare for them?

Outdoor Recreation Guides often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, varying group skill levels, and ensuring safety in remote environments. Preparing for these situations involves thorough pre-trip planning, staying updated with weather forecasts, and maintaining strong communication and leadership skills. Guides should also be well-versed in first aid and emergency protocols to address unforeseen incidents, and adaptable in adjusting activities to suit the group's abilities and comfort levels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an outdoor recreation guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outdoor Recreation Guide, you need strong outdoor skills, first aid certification, and in-depth knowledge of local environments and safety protocols. Familiarity with GPS devices, emergency communication systems, and specialized equipment like climbing or paddling gear is typically required. Outstanding communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help guides manage groups and respond effectively to challenges. These abilities are crucial to ensure participant safety, deliver memorable experiences, and adapt to dynamic outdoor conditions.

What is the difference between Outdoor Recreation Guide vs Outdoor Activity Instructor?

AspectOutdoor Recreation GuideOutdoor Activity Instructor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, outdoor activity certificationsCPR, First Aid, activity-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, parks, wilderness areasOutdoor or indoor activity centers, parks
Employer & IndustryTour companies, outdoor recreation businessesRecreation centers, adventure parks

Both roles involve guiding outdoor activities, requiring similar certifications like CPR and First Aid. However, Outdoor Recreation Guides typically work in broader outdoor environments and may oversee multiple activities, while Outdoor Activity Instructors often focus on specific activities within structured settings. Both roles are essential in the outdoor recreation industry and share overlapping skills and certifications.

More about Outdoor Recreation Guide jobs

What cities are hiring for Outdoor Recreation Guide jobs?

Cities with the most Outdoor Recreation Guide job openings:

What states have the most Outdoor Recreation Guide jobs?

States with the most job openings for Outdoor Recreation Guide jobs include:

Infographic showing various Outdoor Recreation Guide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,872 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Recreation Aid (Community Recreation)

US Department of the Navy

Great Lakes, IL • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

This position is assigned to the NAF Fleet and Family Readiness Programs, Naval Station Great Lakes. Performs a variety of duties to support the Recreation Program; may include MWR special events, MWR information/resources, command events, visiting ships/fleet support, community events, trips/tours/ outings, party/picnic rental equipment, resale tickets, Library, Liberty, leisure skill classes, outdoor recreation or similar MWR recreational services.
MWR, Great Lakes, IL Community RecreationQualifications:Resumes must include information which demonstrates experience and knowledge, skills, and ability (KSAs) as they relate to this position. Applicants are encouraged to be clear and specific when describing their experience level and KSAs.A qualified candidate must possess:
  • Basic reading comprehension in order to adhere to published rules, regulations, standard
  • operating procedures, checklists, and other guides.
  • Basic custodial tasks, e.g. sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, wiping, dusting, etc.
  • Basic computer operations and keyboarding skills to include operation of point of sale systems
  • as well as desktop computers.
  • Basic arithmetic calculations, i.e. addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
  • Basic customer service delivery methods to identify customer needs, deliver expected service,
  • and/or resolve routine customer issues
  • Basic understanding of elements of the Morale, Welfare and Recreation department to
  • answer customer questions and/or refer them to the appropriate activity.
Education:This position does not have a positive education requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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