Workamping at Leonard’s Mills Volunteer, Camp, and Live History on the Museum Grounds

Live Where History Lives

Do you love history and the great outdoors? Imagine waking up every morning in the heart of a historic logging village, surrounded by nature, artifacts, and the hum of heritage in action. Each season, the Maine Forest & Logging Museum offers a unique Volunteer Workamping opportunity for individuals or couples to live onsite in their RV while supporting the museum’s daily operations.

This isn’t your average campground stay—your RV will be the only one nestled in a clearing on our 400+ acres of historic land. You’ll become part of a passionate community of volunteers working to preserve and share Maine’s forest and logging history with thousands of visitors.

Leonard's Mmill on the museum grounds

What is Workamping?

Workamping is a popular volunteer opportunity across state and national parks, where RVers live onsite and contribute to operations in exchange for a unique experience and a place to stay. At Leonard’s Mills, you’ll enjoy peaceful surroundings, scenic trails, and the chance to take part in the behind-the-scenes work that keeps our living history village alive.

Volunteer Responsibilities

Workamping volunteers are expected to contribute flexible hours each week toward museum needs. Responsibilities vary by season and interest, and may include:

  • Opening and staffing the Gift Shop and buildings
  • Assisting with events and guided tours
  • Helping with grounds maintenance and cleanup
  • Participating in restoration projects or demonstrations
  • Engaging with visitors and answering questions about the museum

Our season runs from May through October, and being onsite for special events is especially important. Exact schedules are flexible and based on mutual agreement.

The Ideal Candidate

This opportunity is perfect for someone who:

  • Enjoys meeting new people and sharing history
  • Has an interest in Maine’s forest or logging heritage (or wants to learn!)
  • Feels comfortable living off-grid (generator power, no direct sewer)
  • Values quiet natural beauty and rustic living

We welcome individuals or couples. A background in carpentry, education, maintenance, interpretation, or general handiwork is a bonus—but all enthusiastic learners are welcome!

Living at the Museum

  • Campsite: A level clearing with space for your RV (you provide the camper).
  • Utilities: Generator power is available. A blue boy is provided for septic needs. Cell and internet reception varies depending on provider.
  • Facilities: Access to water; no full hookups.
  • Environment: Quiet, wooded setting with frequent wildlife sightings and walking trails.

This is an off-grid lifestyle with modern challenges—but it’s also a rare opportunity to live in a truly historic space, surrounded by a community of passionate volunteers.

Some of our Previous Workampers

2017 Workampers Vicci and Tom

2017 - Our first workampers: Vicki and Tom

2018 - Mary and Marty

2018 - Mary and Marty kicked off the season

2018 - Eric and Tina

2018 - Eric and Tina closed out the season

Jenny and Joe

2019 & 2023 - Jenny and Joe

2020 - Roger and Martha

2020 - Roger and Martha

2022 - 2024 - Lisa and Kevin

2022 - 2024 - Lisa and Kevin

View of the Blackman Stream during the Fall months.

Apply Now

If you’re interested in this unique workamping opportunity, we’d love to hear from you! Contact Us to request more information or to begin the application process.

View of the Blackman Stream during the Fall months.

Be Part of
Living History

Love Maine's heritage? So do we. Volunteers help operate the museum's working mills, lead tours, clear trails, and more. Your skills—old or new—can help preserve and share the past in a hands-on, meaningful way.

Become a Volunteer