Work a little. Play a little. Live a little.

Workaways at Big Sky

We’re always on the lookout for folks who love the outdoors and get value from doing outdoorsy jobs or nailing bits of wood together!

Big Sky and our extended community (including another pet project, the YesTribe) has been founded on kindness, bartering and helping out in exchange for the enjoyment of a new place created (much like George’s story, here)

15 acres is a lot to manage for two little humans, so now and then we offer workaways for individuals and groups, with camping or glamping in exchange for a few hours of help each day.

The work is varied and prior experience isn’t necessary, just a smile and a good work ethic will get you by. The list of jobs is long over here and what you’d be contributing to would depend on when you visit and what you fancy turning your hand to.

It could be gardening, building a new thing (probably out of pallets), woodland work, looking after our animals or tending to newly planted trees.

We should say that most of our workaway days are adults only, just to make sure we get the work done!

If you’re the type of person who will take a list of jobs and see it as a challenge to overcome, we reckon you’ll fit right in!

If you’re interested in enjoying a workaway at Big Sky and contributing towards a really cool project, fill in the form below and we’ll let you know what we’ve got coming up.

I had such a great time at Big Sky — if you’re after peace, purpose, and a bit of paint in your hair, this is the place.

I stayed in the hobbit hut (yes, it’s as cosy and quiet as it sounds), surrounded by big skies, birdsong, and the occasional curious alpaca. It was the best sleep I’ve had in ages. The compost-heated shower deserves its own shout-out — it’s actual magic how warm it gets. Ten out of ten, would recommend.

During my stay I helped with a bit of tree maintenance, sanding, varnishing, and floor painting — all satisfying jobs with that instant gratification of “yep, I did that.” Dave and Ems are beautiful people: welcoming, funny, full of knowledge, and properly passionate about what they’re building here. Their energy is infectious (in a good way, not the pandemic kind).

What really stuck with me, though, was how inspiring the whole experience was. Spending time with people who are living their values with such heart made me feel braver about taking the next steps in my own journey. I left with mud under my nails, a full heart, and a stronger sense of direction.

It’s the kind of place that reminds you how good it feels to get your hands dirty, feel the grass under your feet, learn something new, and be part of something grounded and real. If you’re looking for a Workaway that’s wholesome but never dull, Big Sky Hideaway is it.
- Eloise Brame

I had a great time volunteering at Big Sky. Dave and Ems are the most warm and welcoming hosts. I loved getting to see the back bones of what goes into running a place like Big Sky. Every day is different and there is a variety of jobs to get stuck into. You will also have time to relax and enjoy the haven that Dave and Ems have created. The accommodation was lovely, I stayed in the Hobbit Hole and loved sitting and eating my breakfast each morning watching the wildlife around me feeling like I was miles away from anywhere. I didn't want to leave! I'll definitely be volunteering here again! - Cedar

Everytime we travelled or found ourselves on a housesit we’d go the extra mile, tidying up a garden or offering one of our skills in exchange for a roof over our head. Now we have one of our own we’re looking for folks who feel the same as we do. If you love the idea of exchanging time for an experience, learning skills and doing good work in the great outdoors, the Big Sky Hideaway has it all.

— Dave and Em

The workaway form

If you’re interested in helping out on the ranch leave your details with us and when the next opportunities arise we’ll be in touch