Become A Volunteer

Volunteer Today and Be the Difference!

 

Volunteers are vital to California’s State Parks. The first volunteers served over 100 years ago and worked hard to preserve our most treasured places, and teach the public about their value. Today, the program has grown to nearly 45,000 volunteers who donated over one million hours of time in 2018. They assist staff in countless ways, in nearly all of California's State Parks. Please consider volunteering today and be the difference tomorrow! 

VIEW THE VOLUNTEERS IN PARKS BROCHURE HERE!

Volunteers are playing an ever-increasing role in California's parks. Volunteers serve in almost all of California's state park units and lend invaluable assistance in one or more of the many program areas.

Qualifications

As a volunteer, you must be willing and able to carry out your assigned duties and responsibilities. You must also be reliable and committed. Job duties are matched to the interests and abilities of the volunteer. A medical examination or criminal background check may be required. Persons under 18 years of age may volunteer with written permission from a parent or guardian. There are several categories and types of volunteer positions.

How to Apply

After identifying the district or park(s) in which you would like to work, please contact the district or park volunteer coordinator (information on the Volunteers in Parks Program Brochure, link on the top of this page) to ask about current volunteer opportunities and the address to which you should mail your completed application. You may apply to more than one park. Describe on the application any relevant experience, education, talents, skills and interests you possess. Each park has its own needs and will be looking for volunteers with the ability to accomplish certain tasks. The more specific you are, the easier it will be for the coordinator to place you in a volunteer position that meets your needs as well as the parks. If you would like to receive a volunteer packet, please contact (916) 653-9069 or Volunteer.inparksprogram@parks.ca.gov with your name and address.

VIEW THE VOLUNTEER APPLICATION HERE!

Training and Working Conditions

If selected, you will receive training to acquaint you with the park and your specific duties. Hours for most volunteer positions are flexible and varied depending upon park needs and your availability. The amount of time volunteered is mutually agreed upon by you and your supervisor before you start and may be changed as circumstances dictate.

VIEW THE VOLUNTEER POSITIONS HERE!