Volunteers-in-Parks (VIPs) are essential members of the National Park Service (NPS) family, as they help Buffalo National River staff achieve the NPS mission and park operational goals. By demonstrating shared stewardship for America's public lands, volunteers set the example for future generations and ensure safety, access, and enjoyment for today's park visitors.The VIP program was created to provide a way for the NPS to accept and utilize voluntary help in a way that is mutually beneficial to the NPS and to volunteers. VIPs work alongside NPS staff and partners to help preserve and protect our natural and cultural resources.The volunteers at Buffalo National River play a critical role in the overall success of the park. Check out the different volunteer opportunities below and learn more about some of the great work our volunteers and partners have done here. Short - Term Volunteer OpportunitiesOrganized volunteer opportunities like river cleanups and trail maintenance days are normally associated with Earth Day (April), National River Cleanup Day (May), National Trails Day (June), and National Public Lands Day (September). Please see our calendar for our planned one day or weekend events.The Buffalo National River Partners host a variety of volunteer opportunities throughout the year including river cleanups, invasive plant removal, trail maintenance, elk education, and more. Check out their calendar for upcoming opportunities. Episodic and Long-Term Volunteer OpportunitiesFor those who are interested and available on a more consistent basis please see our list of our current episodic and long-term opportunities. Some long term volunteer positions will require a formal application via volunteer.gov and selection is based on favorable qualifications and background checks.Current Volunteer OpportunitiesScout and Girl Scout Ranger ProgramsBoth Scouts and Girl Scouts can earn their certificates and badges through the Scout Ranger Program and Girl Scout Ranger Program. A certificate is earned when 5 hours are completed in organized education activities and/or volunteer service projects at one or more national parks.
To coordinate volunteer service projects and organized education activities please contact the VIP Coordinator: e-mail us
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Jacque Alexander from the Backcountry Horsemen of America explains why she volunteers at Buffalo National River.
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North Central Arkansas Master Naturalist Dwan Garrison talks about her volunteer experience at Buffalo National River.
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Rob Stephens is the Arkansas Advocate for the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. Through his volunteer support for educational programs, signage/publication/web content development and community science efforts, he has been instrumental in Buffalo National River's distinction as a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site. Thank you for your volunteerism and stewardship, Rob!
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2019 Volunteer of the Year Aletha Tetterton shares her role in coordinating river cleanups at Buffalo National River.
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Volunteer campground host Jerry Goller shares his role at Buffalo National River. |
Last updated: October 15, 2023