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Park Guide Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

GUEST GUIDE

Pigeon Forge, TN · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

This position provides accurate and concise information about park rules, recreation activities, and directions to destinations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Assist guests by guiding them ...

GUEST GUIDE

Pigeon Forge, TN · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

This position provides accurate and concise information about park rules, recreation activities, and directions to destinations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Assist guests by guiding them ...

GUEST GUIDE

Pigeon Forge, TN · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

This position provides accurate and concise information about park rules, recreation activities, and directions to destinations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Assist guests by guiding them ...

As a Park Ambassador, you'll be at the heart of our award-winning adventure park--welcoming guests, promoting safety, guiding them through our Adventure Elements, and helping create unforgettable ...

Whether in a park or a boardroom, these values guide how we lead, collaborate, and show up for each other and for the communities we serve. _____ WHO YOU ARE: Team Lead is a hands-on, early ...

Whether in a park or a boardroom, these values guide how we lead, collaborate, and show up for each other and for the communities we serve. WHO YOU ARE: Team Lead is a hands-on, early-leadership role ...

Whether in a park or a boardroom, these values guide how we lead, collaborate, and show up for each other and for the communities we serve. WHO YOU ARE: Team Lead is a hands-on, early-leadership role ...

Whether in a park or a boardroom, these values guide how we lead, collaborate, and show up for each other and for the communities we serve. _____ WHO YOU ARE: Team Lead is a hands-on, early ...

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Park Guide information

See Tennessee salary details

$13

$14

$17

How much do park guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for park guide in Tennessee is $14.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $14.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the key challenges Park Guides face when interacting with diverse visitor groups?

Park Guides often encounter visitors from a wide range of backgrounds, ages, and interests, which can present challenges in effectively communicating park rules, safety guidelines, and historical or environmental information. Adapting presentations to engage different audiences—such as school groups, international tourists, or families—requires flexibility and strong interpersonal skills. Additionally, Park Guides must be prepared to handle unexpected situations, such as medical emergencies or weather changes, while maintaining a welcoming and informative atmosphere. These challenges make every day unique and help Guides develop valuable communication and problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Park Guide vs Park Ranger?

AspectPark GuidePark Ranger
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require guides certification or trainingHigh school diploma; often requires law enforcement or conservation certifications
Work EnvironmentTourist areas, visitor centers, outdoor trailsNatural parks, conservation areas, enforcement zones
Employer & Industry UsageTourism companies, national parks, private parksGovernment agencies, national and state parks
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding visitor services and guiding rolesConservation, enforcement, and park management

While both roles involve outdoor work and interaction with visitors, a Park Guide primarily focuses on leading tours and providing information to tourists, whereas a Park Ranger has broader responsibilities including conservation, enforcement, and park management. The roles often overlap in outdoor settings but differ in scope and required credentials.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A park guide typically does not earn $4,000 per week without a degree; such high weekly earnings are uncommon in this role. Jobs that can pay this amount without a degree often include sales, real estate, or skilled trades like plumbing or electrical work, especially with experience or commissions. These roles may require certifications, licenses, or specialized skills but not necessarily a college degree.

How much do national park guides get paid?

National park guides typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $20,000 to $40,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. Many guides work seasonally and may need certifications such as first aid or park-specific training.

What are Park Guides?

Park Guides are professionals who provide information and interpretive services to visitors at parks, historic sites, and nature reserves. They lead tours, answer questions, help protect park resources, and ensure visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. Park Guides may also assist with educational programs, enforce park regulations, and promote conservation efforts. Their work helps connect the public with natural and cultural heritage.

How much do park aides get paid?

Park aides typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the specific park or agency. Some positions may offer additional benefits such as training, uniforms, or seasonal work schedules.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Park Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Park Guide, you generally need knowledge of natural and cultural resources, strong public speaking skills, and a background in environmental science, history, or related fields. Familiarity with interpretive tools, reservation systems, and first aid certification is often required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, and adaptability help Park Guides engage diverse visitors and create memorable experiences. These skills ensure effective education, visitor safety, and positive representation of the park's mission.

What Does a Park Guide Do?

A park guide provides a range of informational services to park visitors. As a park guide, your duties and responsibilities range from leading educational programs, taking visitors on tours or guided walks, maintaining the information material at a park visitor center, and distributing and updating maps of trails or other features at the park. Your work may be seasonal, or you may work at parks that are open year round. You may have some retail or administrative responsibilities and occasionally help perform park maintenance as well.

How do I become a park ranger with no experience?

To become a park ranger with no experience, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain knowledge of natural resources and park operations. Volunteering, completing relevant training or certifications, and demonstrating good communication and physical fitness can improve chances of hiring, as entry-level positions often require on-the-job training.
What are the most commonly searched types of Park Guide jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Park Guide jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Park Guide jobs in TN? For Park Guide jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Park Guide job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,501 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

$12 - $14/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


KOA rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 21 rated holiday rentals


Job description

Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) is the world's largest network of privately owned campgrounds and the leader in outdoor hospitality. KOA has 500+ locations across the United States and Canada including a mix of franchised and company-owned parks (OAK). Founded in 1962, the mission of KOA is "connecting people to the outdoors and each other," and those who represent the brand share the values of being family-oriented, passionate, entrepreneurial, customer-focused, and innovative.
At KOA, we believe the outdoors is fun and for everyone. We are committed to having an environment where all are treated with dignity and respect. We strive to:
  • intentionally create a sense of community and belonging for our guests, employees and franchise partners
  • continually educate ourselves and expand our knowledge to foster an inclusive and supportive environment
  • sustain a culture that promotes diversity of thought and experiences
  • ensure everyone has the ability to experience the outdoors and that our facilities are accessible to all
  • drive change in our company and industry through action and implementation

Summary:
The Guest Guide works closely with the guest services representatives to lead customers to their site after registration. Guest Guides help enforce campground rules, pick up trash, empty trash receptacles, respond to messaging services, provide basic housekeeping duties, and perform light maintenance and repairs. This position provides accurate and concise information about park rules, recreation activities, and directions to destinations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assist guests by guiding them to their sites, and with other customer service needs.
  • Sell and deliver ice and firewood.
  • Keep grounds free from trash, litter, and debris, and empty trash receptacles.
  • Ensure the cleanliness of grounds, landscaped areas, parking lots, restrooms, pool, and office areas.
  • Clean campsites by performing minor maintenance tasks such as raking the campsite pad, washing tables, and cleaning out fire rings.
  • Collaborate with housekeeping staff by assisting in tidying restrooms and common areas and communicating daily housekeeping needs.
  • Interact with guests and make recommendations for activities in the local area.
  • Follow all safety guidelines for the operation of equipment and use of chemicals.
  • Make minor carpentry, plumbing, and electrical repairs.
  • Approach all interactions with guests in an attentive, friendly, courteous, and service-oriented manner.
  • Report all disturbances to management or in emergencies, to the local authorities without attempting to discipline or apprehend any campground violators.
  • Prioritize tasks based upon importance and urgency with conscious planning and thoughtful decision making.

Non-Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • This job description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Required Education and Experience:
  • Office and light maintenance work in high public contact area.
  • Read, write, and speak English in a clear and concise manner.
  • Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Capable of working independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Education and Experience:
  • Experience in campground or comparable position.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:
  • Work is performed primarily outdoors and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions
  • Must be able to lift 10 pounds regularly, lift and carry 25 pounds or more occasionally with assistance.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb, push, pull, reach overhead and move safely over uneven terrain.
  • Use of repetitive motion, standing, bending, sitting, lifting, and walking.
  • Noise levels may be moderate to loud.
  • May be exposed to dust, pollen, grasses, landscaping, and various chemicals and moving mechanical equipment.
  • Use of personal protective equipment required where necessary.
  • Will experience occasional interruptions and shifting priorities.
  • Valid driver's license required, this position may be expected to drive a motorized vehicle which requires close and distance vision, sitting, seeing and reading signs, traffic signals, etc.

KOA does not sponsor Visas
KOA currently does not pay or withhold taxes in the following states:
Alabama
Idaho
North Dakota
Alaska
Louisiana
Rhode Island
Delaware
Mississippi
South Dakota
District of Columbia
Nebraska
Vermont
Hawaii
New Hampshire
West Virginia
Kampgrounds Of America, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to provide an environment where all employees and applicants are treated with respect. The company is committed to fair treatment of all people. This value ensures employees and candidates are treated equally and are protected from discrimination or harassment of any kind. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors, or any other protected status.

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