Learn about current park closures and updates.
To maintain, operate, and enjoy the more than 150 parks and 380 miles that are part of the County Parks and Recreation system, staff partner with community volunteers. There are many opportunities available, from participating in cleanup events and planting trees to serving as a docent for a historical site or becoming a campground host.
Becoming a volunteer is as easy as 1, 2, 3!
A background check and medical screening is required for some volunteer positions. Training is provided, and work records are maintained.
To sign up for one-time volunteer events, feel free to use one of the following methods:
Pre-registration is not required for special events; you may show up at the event location and sign in if you choose. Complete volunteer onboarding, including a background check, is only required for ongoing volunteerism, not special events. You may gain community service hours for all volunteer activities.
December 2024
January 2025
February 2025
March 2025
April 2025
May 2025
June 2025
COURT-ORDERED COMMUNITY SERVICE ENROLLMENT:
Individuals who need to complete community service hours for court, probation, or another justice-involved program can enroll using our Court-Ordered Community Service Enrollment Form.
STUDENT, YOUTH, AND SERVICE-LEARNING:
We love working with the next generation of park ambassadors! Students, Scouts, and other individuals under the age of 18 are welcome to apply to complete community service, plan and implement a service project, or just volunteer to learn. There are many opportunities which may include but are not limited to trash and debris pick-up, planting trees, and trail maintenance. To apply, complete the volunteer application, visit the site you are interested in, and talk to park staff about available positions.
CORPORATE AND GROUP VOLUNTEER EVENTS:
We provide great team-building activities for organizations, corporations and civic groups. Park cleanups, trail building, planting native vegetation and trees, special events, and more are all options. Begin the process today by completing our Group Volunteer Event Interest Form.
Hosts live in a suitable recreation vehicle in a park. Camp Hosts are typically located in a campground, while Park Hosts are stationed in local parks, preserves, nature, or community centers operated by the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation. Volunteer campground and park host positions are available in over 40 parks with over 80 individual host campsites. For more information, visit the Camp and Park Host page, or complete the Campground and Park Host Interest Form.
Docents and Naturalists may lead hikes, tours and provide interpretive programs at the parks, preserves and historic sites. In some cases, they may be involved in presentations, brochure creation, work with school children, and ongoing research and development. To apply, complete the volunteer application, visit the site you are interested in, and talk to park staff about available positions.
Participating Parks: Los Penasquitos Canyon County Preserve | San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve and Nature Center | Rancho Guajome Adobe | Santa Ysabel Nature Center | Vallecito County Park
COMMUNITY AND TEEN CENTER ASSISTANTS:
Our community and teen centers serve thousands of families and youth through daily programs, weekly activities and seasonal and special events. Community and Teen Center Assistants provide integral support with administrative tasks, facility maintenance, gardening, coaching, and special events. Work varies by date and location. To apply, complete the volunteer application, visit the site you are interested in, and talk to park staff about available positions.
Participating Parks: Fallbrook Community Center | Lakeside Community Center | Lakeside Teen Center | Spring Valley Community Center | Spring Valley Teen Center | Valley Center Community Hall and Park
Park Assistants provide information, assistance and services. They encourage visitors to follow park rules, acting as a point of contact in the event of an emergency, may collect park fees, help to maintain facilities and/or landscaping, remove litter, make simple repairs, perform light housekeeping and janitorial duties, and other work as assigned. To apply, complete the volunteer application, visit the site you are interested in, and talk to park staff about available positions.
View our Find a Park Map | View a List of Parks, Alphabetically | View a List of Parks, by Category
HISTORICAL INTERPRETERS AND ARCHIVISTS:
As Interpreters and Archivists for County Parks, volunteers share park information, participate in and help manage park research, archive historic documents and artifacts, develop educational programs, and facilitate outreach projects. To apply, complete the volunteer application and send it to Volunteer Services.
VOLUNTEER VENTURES:
Looking for an adventure that makes a difference? Volunteer Ventures combines the best of outdoor exploration and meaningful service. Spend a weekend camping under the stars, working on impactful projects like restoring historic landmarks or revitalizing natural habitats in San Diego’s beautiful parks. With all meals, equipment, and guidance provided, it’s an unforgettable way to connect with nature, meet like-minded people, and leave a lasting legacy. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or new to giving back, Volunteer Ventures is your chance to make memories while making an impact. Learn More
VOLUNTEER RESOURCES:
For more information, contact Volunteer Services Coordinator Tony Richardson at (858) 966-1335 or ParksVolunteer@sdcounty.ca.gov. You can also schedule a meeting.
