Volunteer

The logo for the National Park Service's Volunteers-in-Parks program.

NPS

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.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Buffalo National River has volunteer opportunities for all different ages, interests, and time commitments. Explore our current volunteer openings below. Thank you for your interest in volunteering at Buffalo National River and we look forward to working together!

 

Buffalo National River Partners Earth Day 2019 river cleanup volunteers.

NPS Photo

Short - Term Volunteer Opportunities

Organized 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.

 

A group of volunteers and rangers pose together while holding elk antlers and brochures.

NPS/T. Fondriest

Episodic and Long-Term Volunteer Opportunities

For 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 Opportunities

 

Scouts can earn a Resource Stewardship patch on their visit to Buffalo National River.

NPS Photo

Scout and Girl Scout Ranger Programs

Both 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.

A patch is awarded if 10 hours are completed in organized education activities and/or volunteer service projects at one or more national parks. Examples of qualifying organized educational programs include the following:

• Ranger-guided interpretive tours
• Junior Ranger programs
• Environmental education programs
• Any other official NPS education program (campfire program, ranger-led hike, etc.)

To coordinate volunteer service projects and organized education activities please contact the VIP Coordinator: e-mail us