The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation Volunteer Program was created to enhance the ability to meet the needs of the public, increase opportunities for public involvement in parks, and allow for good stewardship of park resources. The major objective of the program is to offer volunteer opportunities that are both beneficial to park operations and meaningful for participants.
Volunteer Roles
Administrative volunteers assist park staff by performing office-based tasks that ensure the efficient operation of our North Carolina State Park Visitor Centers.
Campground Hosts serve as an onsite liaison between campers and park staff. Campground Hosts will provide a welcoming presence and assist visitors throughout their stay in North Carolina State Parks.
The Campground Host Program allows volunteers who provide their own lodging the opportunity to stay within the park while supporting campground operations. Volunteers must commit to a specific length of service. Campground Hosts are provided with a free campsite near the campground’s main entry or another central location for visibility and accessibility. Utility hookups may be provided at no cost if available. The parks shown on the map above are currently seeking campground hosts for 2026 and beyond. Email the park to inquire about campground hosting.
Educational volunteers help park visitors connect with the natural wonders of North Carolina State Parks through interpretation and educational programs.
Event volunteers support the success of public park events including large educational programs, festivals, recreational activities, races, holiday celebrations, and more.
Maintenance volunteers support the ongoing care, appearance, and operation of park grounds and facilities.
Trail volunteers assist in the creation, maintenance, safety, and accessibility of the trail systems throughout North Carolina State Parks.
A Trail Steward is a volunteer who helps care for and monitor park trails. Their responsibilities typically include hiking assigned trail sections, observing and reporting trail conditions, and completing tasks such as picking up litter, cleaning signs, assisting visitors as needed, assessing trail blazes, and notifying park staff of any issues. Trail Stewards should visit their section of trail at least once to twice per month. The trail steward program is a great, self-paced volunteer opportunity for individuals that love the park and want to volunteer at their convenience.
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunity: Friends Groups
Joining one of our friends groups is a great way to support the mission of conservation (as well as recreation and education) at your local state park and the entire state parks system. These groups provide support to state parks by organizing volunteer efforts, educating visitors, hosting events, and fundraising.
Friends of State Parks
The Friends group works with Division staff, local chapters, state legislators, and the general public about concerns, needs, and issues affecting state parks. They raise money to complement government funding for park improvements and education initiatives. They also coordinate volunteer efforts to support programs, events, and other park initiatives.
Specialty License Plate
If you have or get a specialty State Parks license plate from the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles, you can receive a complimentary 1-year membership. Fill out the form on the FSP website.
Local Chapters
Find your local park's friends chapter. They are arranged alphabetically by the park's name.
