FIRST WORK CAMPING EXPERIENCE

We thought that work camping would be a great way to see the country, and in this time of shrinking budgets, a way to give something back to federal agencies we had worked with in the past. In exchange for doing various kinds of labor, the agencies furnish RVers a place to park, water and electricity. Work camping gives RVers a base camp from which to explore the area in which they are staying and an opportunity to become a part of the community. Sampling local food is one of our favorite things to do and work camping in an area gives us the opportunity to find and visit the restaurants in an area.
Our first work camping experience was at Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge near Monroe Louisiana. As is the case with most Fish and Wildlife Service people, we have met, the staff at Black Bayou Lake was super to work with. They also had a very active "Friends" group which opened their arms to us and made us feel part of the community. Anyone contemplating work camping would do well to add Black Bayou Lake NWR to their list of must go places. In fact if you are just passing through Northern Louisiana swing by Black Bayou Lake for a visit. The displays in the welcome center are top notch and make sure you visit the science building for a look at live animals that inhabit the refuge. The Friends of Black Bayou Lake have done an outstanding job of tee shirt design and selection so if you like really neat tee shirts give them a look.