There are a wide variety of volunteer opportunities in our Central Coast State Parks, both with CCSPA and CA State Parks.
From board service, internships, retail positions, and more, there are plenty of ways to volunteer with the Central Coast State Parks Association. Positions range from the board of directors to internships to photography.
There are volunteer opportunities available at both the San Luis Obispo Coast District and the Oceano Dunes District. State Parks volunteer positions are diverse, and there’s a wide variety of opportunities to utilize skills and interests.
Highlights of Opportunities
Elephant Seal Docents interpret elephant seals and the surrounding area at the Piedras Blancas Rookery at Hearst San Simeon State Park. Visitors come from all over the world to observe these fascinating marine mammals, and docents help make their trip memorable by answering questions and inspiring environmental stewardship. Training is provided during the fall and spring. Volunteers are asked to commit to 3-4 three-hour shifts per month.
Coast Mounted Assistance (CMA) volunteers also patrol park beaches and trails on horseback, provide information to park visitors, and help maintain the Horse Camp facilities.
SeaLife Stewards is a water-based volunteer program in Morro Bay. Volunteers help educate water recreators about the wildlife in Morro Bay while minimizing disturbance. Volunteers who enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are encouraged to apply.
Black Hills Gang and Central Coast Concerned Mountain Bikers (CCCMB) are volunteer groups that assist State Park staff in maintaining and building trails in State Parks.
Campground Hosts live onsite at State Park campgrounds for 3-4 months and provide some of the basic operational services and information to the visiting public. Hosts usually assist with other duties including selling firewood, campground checks, and/or park maintenance.
For more information and details of jobs, go to centralcoastparks.org/volunteering.
