A Day in the Life of a Volunteer at the Visitor Center
A typical day you may expect as a volunteer at the Humboldt Redwoods California State Park visitor center on the Avenue of the Giants can vary by location and depends upon what organization you are representing, but for us, these are some of the exciting and very rewarding experiences we had on the Avenue of the Giants…
Greeting Visitors to the Center: Welcoming guests to the park, answering questions about the park’s history, trails, and attractions.
Sharing Knowledge: We had the opportunity to be trained by the very helpful and knowledgeable staff which included the director, the manager, and interpreters of the Humboldt Redwood Interpretive Association. This training offered us the ability to share this information with the visitors.
Assisting with displays and exhibits: Maintaining merchandise displays, answering visitor questions about the exhibits, and helping to create a warm and welcoming environment for the guests.
Selling Park Merchandise: Working in the gift shop, helping visitors find the perfect souvenir.
Assisting with special events: My husband and I worked with other volunteers and staff of the State Parks in preparation of the many remarkable events at the Visitor Center
The Rewards of Volunteering at the Visitor’s Center
The rewards of volunteering at Humboldt Redwoods State Park are numerous and may effect each volunteer member differently.
Immersion in Nature: Surrounding yourself with the awe-inspiring beauty of the California Redwoods.
Connecting with People: Meeting visitors from all over the world and sharing your passion for the unique environment and vibrant community.
Learning and Growing: Gaining knowledge about the natural world and developing new skills and sharing it with guests to the California State Redwoods.
Contributing to Conservation: Helping to protect and preserve one of the most iconic ecosystems on Earth..
RV Campsite: California State Parks generously provided us with a camp site in exchange for working 20 hours a week at the visitor center and other events
How to Volunteer with California State Parks
If you’re interested in volunteering with the California State Parks, here are some steps to get started:
Browse the California State Park Volunteer Website: This is valuable and informative resources for those interested in volunteering. You will be able to see when and where volunteers are needed including what the jobs entail.
Be Prepared: We recommend that you have an up to date résumé and provide a cover letter highlighting your qualifications. You will be required to have a background check and fingerprinting completed. Some organizations may pay for fingerprinting, but some do not. So, you may have to pay for that out of your own pocket.
Complete Volunteer Training: Undergo training on specific tasks, such as visitor services, trail maintenance, or interpretive programs.
Start Volunteering! Begin your volunteer journey, committing to a regular schedule that works for you.
Volunteering with the California State Park is an incredible opportunity to give back to the environment, meet amazing people, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a nature novice, there may be a volunteer role for you.
Paid Opportunities
As of today we have not participated in any work camping situation. You may meet others who will not volunteer for free even if they receive free rent, etc. Here are some tips and ideas we have found.
Wages: Some RVers expect to be paid a wage in addition to the free rent
Who Offers Wages? RV parks and resorts across the country that offer compensations that include free rent/discounted rent and an hourly wage
How Much to Expect: These, mostly private companies, vary widely in compensation. So, be diligent in your research when deciding what you are interested in.
Where to Start: We have a few links below for your research. Some organizations provide work camp posts, but you must become a member:
For us: We have been happy with volunteering. Maybe we will find a paid opportunity that fits our needs in the future. We will post it to compare the benefits and downfalls of each.
Feel free to ask questions or share your experiences in the comment section below.
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