When you think of a career in conservation, hands-on animal care and daily husbandry might be the first things that come to mind. However, at a conservation center like Fossil Rim, a passionate team works behind the scenes to educate, connect, and support our mission—all sharing that same deep love for wildlife.
Melissa Hampton’s Career Journey
For our Lodging Manager, Melissa Hampton, that passion translated into a career surrounded by nature. Melissa originally studied biology in college with plans to become an educator. Although changing life circumstances altered her initial trajectory, her journey at Fossil Rim began in 2020 as a housekeeper and breakfast cook. Through dedication and hard work, she quickly rose through the ranks, stepping into her current role as Lodging Manager in 2023.
While her position isn’t in traditional education, Hampton’s role at The Lodge allows her to engage directly with visitors every day. By facilitating memorable overnight stays, she helps guests experience the wildlife center in a way standard day tours cannot replicate. “You can have your morning cup of coffee and watch the animals out in the pasture,” Hampton said. “You can go hang out in the evenings and listen to the wolves howling at night.”
Hampton explained that connecting with guests at The Lodge allows her to deepen their appreciation for Fossil Rim while contextualizing its overall mission by sharing the facility’s rich 42-year history of conservation efforts.
A New Chapter for Guest Stays at Fossil Rim
Currently The Lodge is the only way to stay overnight at Fossil Rim, however Hampton began her career journey at Safari Camp which previously gave another great overnight option. Though it closed in 2021, the camp is making a highly anticipated comeback late this year. It’s a reopening Hampton is especially excited about, having seen firsthand how special the camp was – and how much the new upgrades will elevate the guest experience. “The original Safari Camp was special; the location itself is very special.” said Hampton, “The Lodge is such a remote location that the highlight of staying at The Lodge is its tranquility.”
While the peaceful location of The Lodge makes for a great weekend getaway, Safari Camp offers a completely unique experience. “Safari Camp is smack dab in the middle of the facility, right between the cheetahs and the Overlook. You get to see and hear everything at Safari Camp—with a watering hole right in front, you can watch the animals make their daily migrations back and forth all day long,” Hampton said.
Get Involved in Conservation
Melissa’s story at Fossil Rim highlights a powerful truth about conservation — it takes a diverse community of people working behind the scenes to make a lasting difference. From managing overnight stays to sharing our conservation impact, leaders in hospitality help build the personal connections that turn guests into lifelong advocates. If you love wildlife, your unique talents can find a home in conservation, too.
Interested in an internship or career at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center? Be sure to check out our Careers & Internships landing page.