The DNR Division of State Parks and Reservoirs is looking for people to run several different small concession operations at state properties in the summer.

The concessions include snack bars, camp stores, firewood sales, vending machines, boat rentals and saddle barns. Locations range from Potato Creek State Park in extreme northern Indiana to Harmonie and Lincoln state parks in the southwest tip of the state.

Concession operators will pay a fee to the DNR in exchange for use of an existing facility with a track record for sales. The operator is responsible for purchasing inventory, providing labor, and handling all other aspects of the business, including marketing, insurance and recordkeeping. The fee is typically a negotiated percentage of gross sales or a flat fee. Contracts may be written for up to four years.

"One advantage to this situation is that the customer pool is supplied by the property – from campers, hikers and picnickers to school groups and family reunions," said Teresa Marshall of state parks and reservoirs’ inns and concessions section. "The natural park setting is another advantage, as are the patrons who use our state parks, reservoirs, and other state properties."

Most concessions are open only during the recreation season – spring to fall – making them a perfect fit for second incomes, teachers, retirees, and non-profit groups.

For more information about specific concession locations and to receive a proposal packet, contact Teresa Marshall at tmarshall@dnr.IN.gov, or call 317-232-4140.

For information about the DNR properties where concessions are located, visit www.IN.gov/dnr.

2006 concession locations:
Cagles Mill Reservoir (Lieber State Recreation Area) – boat rental, camp store and/or pool snacks
Clifty Falls State Park – camp store and/or pool snacks
Harmonie State Park – camp store and pool snacks
Lincoln State Park - boat rental, camp store and beach snacks
Potato Creek State Park – camp store and/or beach snacks
Shakamak State Park – saddle barn
Versailles State Park – saddle barn
Whitewater Memorial State Park – saddle barn