We're updating our camping and moorage fees to continue providing great experiences for visitors amid inflation and rising costs. You will see a rate increase for camping stays booked for May 15 and beyond. Moorage fees will increase Jan. 1. Learn more here.
Group Volunteers
Washington state parks welcomes many types of volunteer groups. Volunteer groups consist of 3 or more persons that volunteer on either short or long-term projects. or events. Volunteer groups can consist of formal groups such as scouts, church groups Friends Groups and recreational organizations to local businesses that just want to come out and support their local park.
Washington State Parks welcomes organizations and groups of all kinds to volunteer, including:
- Scout troops
- School/youth groups
- Military members
- Local businesses
- And others!
Whether you're looking to build teamwork skills, fulfill service requirements, or give back to the community - volunteering is a perfect way for your group to bond and enjoy a fun, active day outdoors with purpose!
Requirements
Group volunteers must commit to an agreed work schedule or planned date with a park in advance. Groups can either volunteer on a one-time or recurring basis. Groups that commit to providing service at least twice in one year, or once a year for two successive years, at the same park may be eligible to become an official Adopt-A-Park group (the AAP program is currently on hold and not accepting applications at this time).
Groups must designate one person to serve as the group's representative and leader. Group leaders must be over 18 and will be responsible for the group members that are participating, as well as overseeing the volunteer project.
Youth Volunteers
Minors who arrive in a state park with adults who are not their parents or legal guardians shall not be allowed to participate in volunteer activities without written permission of a parent or legal guardian. The Event Participation Waiver and Release Agreement should be printed, signed and given to park staff prior to volunteering.
If working with a group of youth volunteers, there must be a designated adult group leader, and that leader is responsible for acquiring and holding parental permissions. Volunteers must be 14 years or older if they are volunteering as an individual.
How to arrange a group volunteer project
Please follow the steps below to arrange a volunteer project for your group.
1: Find a state park volunteer opportunity
Explore the Volunteer Opportunities List to find out which parks accept group volunteers and the types of volunteer opportunities they offer.
2: Connect with the park
Group Leaders should reach out to the listed park contact to confirm they are currently accepting group volunteers and if they have any suitable projects for your group's size, preferred dates and any special accommodations that may be needed.
For groups requesting volunteer opportunities on a specific date it is recommended that you give the parks a minimum of two months' notice when submitting your volunteer requests.
3: Apply
The Group Leader should fill out a Group Volunteer Application and sign the Group Volunteer Service Agreement on behalf of the entire group. Members of the group do not need to complete applications individually.
Completed applications can be submitted in one of the following ways:
- Hand it in – Print out a hard copy and submit directly to desired park
- Email – Scan or save your application to your computer and submit via e-mail to the park contact. If there is no email address listed, you may email your application directly to the Volunteer Program.
Additional opportunities
Additional volunteer opportunities may also be available through one of our many Friends Groups. Contact your local state park's Friends Group to see how you can get involved.
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