Volunteer

 

NPS Photo

There are many ways to volunteer in the park! C&O Canal has rewarding volunteer positions for a wide variety of interests.

Find current volunteer opportunities and a listing of the park's ongoing volunteer programs below. Contact the volunteer coordinator if you have any questions.

 

Current Volunteer Opportunities

 

Volunteering in a national park is a rewarding and exciting experience.

NPS Photo

Volunteer Programs

Antietam Creek Campground Host

Do you want to live in a national park for a month or more? Do you enjoy camping? Apply for the Antietam Creek Campground Host position! Hosts are responsible for welcoming campers and helping them get acquainted to the campground.

Billy Goat Trail Stewards

Are you an avid hiker and fan of the C&O Canal’s Billy Goat Trail? Then join the ranks of the Billy Goat Trail Stewards! These volunteers are well versed in Leave No Trace principles, and the ins and outs of Bear Island.

Bike Patrol

This program operates out of the Great Falls, Williamsport, and Cumberland Visitor Centers. Members patrol the canal on bicycle and offer information to visitors, report hazards, and serve as resource protection stewards.

Canal Steward Program

Do you have a favorite section of the C&O Canal? Perhaps it is a stretch of towpath, or a particular historic building, lock, aqueduct, campsite, picnic area, Canal Quarters Program or boat ramp? If so, we could use your help! Become a C&O Canal Steward and adopt a site! Adoption areas are available from Georgetown to Cumberland.

EMS/PSAR

The EMS/PSAR program was started as an effort to reduce heat-related illnesses and encourage better preparation and planning amongst park visitors. PSAR volunteers hike the trails along the Mather Gorge landscape, asking visitors questions about their hiking plans. PSAR volunteers include EMTs and are often the first park representatives on scene with an ill or injured hiker. EMS/PSAR volunteers carry basic medical gear and can call for additional personnel if advanced medical or technical rescue skills are required.

Level Walkers

Walkers wanted! Do you love walking? Do you have a favorite part of the canal you like to walk? Are you interested in volunteering for the C&O Canal? If so, you are just the person we are looking for!

Visitor Services

Volunteers at the C&O Canal visitor centers welcome thousands of park visitors every year and provide invaluable information regarding the park’s historical, natural and recreational resources. Visitor Service volunteers are located in Georgetown, Great Falls, Williamsport, and Cumberland.

Contact Us

For more information about volunteer opportunities, please contact the volunteer coordinator.