National Public Lands Day, the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort, is set for Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024. Held annually on the fourth Saturday of September, this event offers a great opportunity to give back to Wisconsin’s public lands through volunteering.
Volunteers can contribute as their schedule allows, whether for a few hours or over multiple weeks. Whether helping at a property workday or serving as a campground host, every contribution helps improve the natural spaces we enjoy.
To explore available volunteer opportunities, visit the Wisconsin State Park System’s Volunteer Impact System website to apply online or complete a Volunteer Application Form (2500-106). Information about park locations and mailing addresses is also available through the Find a Park webpage.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Workday Volunteers:
- Clean park grounds, picnic areas, campgrounds, and facilities.
- Plant trees, remove invasive species, and restore prairies and habitats.
- Build and maintain trails.
- Enhance pollinator and rain gardens.
- Assist with construction projects like building picnic shelters and kiosks.
Campground Hosts:
- Stay at a campsite and volunteer a few hours daily.
- Greet and assist campers, sharing information about the park and facilities.
- Help maintain campsites, bathrooms, and park amenities.
- Support park operations and lead by example as a model camper.
Naturalist or Nature Center Host:
- Present educational programs such as campfire talks, nature walks, and living history demonstrations.
- Lead school group programs on-site and public workshops or classes.
- Assist with nature events and answer visitor questions at the Nature Center.
Visitor Center Volunteers:
- Greet visitors, provide maps, brochures, and program schedules.
- Help with campsite registration, admission stickers, and state trail passes.
- Assist with coordinating events and preparing exhibits.
Adopt-A-Trail Program:
- Officially adopt a trail and support trail construction, maintenance, and invasive species control.
- Sponsors receive recognition with a trailhead sign.
Group Service Projects:
Groups, organizations, or businesses interested in scheduling service projects are encouraged to contact their local park property.
Make a lasting impact this Public Lands Day by volunteering at Wisconsin’s state parks!
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