Volunteer

Happy volunteers in blue vest surrounding a park ranger on a boat.

Introduction

Volunteers at the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area work alongside park rangers on a wide variety of events and projects. Volunteers provide valuable assistance in restoring native landscapes, providing new experiences and learning opportunities for school groups, assisting with logistics and skill building at public events, and providing visitors with information about how to experience the Mississippi River. For corporate teams, church groups, and civic clubs volunteering can build team spirit while helping restore the river environment valued by the millions of visitors that ply its waters, walk its trails, and view its wildlife each year.

Whether you are interested in volunteering for a one-time event or on a regular basis, we have a volunteer opportunity for you! The volunteer program is jointly managed by the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area and the park's non-profit charitable partner, Mississippi Park Connection. Volunteer opportunities are advertised in a monthly e-mail newsletter and on the Mississippi Park Connection website. Sign up for the newsletter by emailing us.

The VIP logo consisting of the NPS Arrowhead and the word "Volunteer" above it.

Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) Program Overview

The Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) Program offers individuals and groups unique opportunities to make personal connections with the Mississippi River and America’s National Park System.

There are many reasons to volunteer at the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Through your work, you will:

  • Contribute to the protection of America’s heritage

  • Add to the visitor experience

  • Make new friends

  • Share your knowledge, talent, and experience with others

  • Find a potential future paying position

  • Develop new skills or brush up old ones

  • Be a guest of honor at an annual volunteer recognition event

  • Receive volunteer recognition awards based on hours and length of service

Read more about the different types of volunteer opportunities at the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.

Poster showing two rangers looking off into the distance.

Ready to Volunteer?

Volunteers can view and sign up for current volunteer opportunities on the Mississippi Park Connection’s online calendar or by contacting the Volunteers-in-Parks Coordinator by e-mail or at 651-293-0200.

Contact Information

Volunteers-In-Parks Program Coordinator
111 East Kellogg Boulevard, Suite 105
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101
Contact the VIP coordinator by e-mail or at 651-293-0200

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is committed to a strong non-discrimination policy respecting its employees and volunteers. Contact the Volunteers-In-Parks Manager for more detailed information regarding workplace conditions and policies.

Last updated: June 9, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

111 E. Kellogg Blvd., Suite 105
Saint Paul, MN 55101

Phone:

651-293-0200
This is the general phone line at the Mississippi River Visitor Center.

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