Volunteering – one way you can cherish Alabama’s State Parks

In Alabama, we cherish our State Parks.

Want some examples?

At DeSoto State Park atop Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama, an Eagle Scout candidate built a green pitcher plant demonstration bog so that guests can see the rare plant without damaging the natural bog.

At Oak Mountain State Park in north Shelby County, the Back Country Horsemen are building stalls at the equestrian campground so that overnight campers will have somewhere to keep their horses.

At Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, a Boy Scout troop pitched in with another group to build and install 15 bluebird nesting boxes.

Alabama State Parks needs volunteers and donations

All of these projects and countless more were done by volunteers.

The Alabama State Parks System survives and thrives with its partners, whether they are vendors who contract to deliver goods and services or volunteers who are willing to give of their time and money to enrich visitors’ experiences.

Years ago, the state created the Volunteer In Parks (VIP) program to allow individuals or groups to make a difference at their favorite park. VIP participants make a positive impact year-round in each of the state’s 22 parks.

“It is incredible and humbling when you see the effort that goes into these volunteer projects,” said Greg Lein, Director of the Alabama State Parks System. “Everyone in our department knows how much the people of Alabama love our parks. The fact that people choose to spend their free time working to make our parks more fun, more appealing and more visitor-friendly helps us focus on doing the best job we can.”

Interested in “giving back” to Alabama’s State Parks?

Visit the State Parks volunteer website – here and then fill out the State Park volunteer application form.

Want to fund a local project or support a park financially? Donations to the Volunteer Fund can be made at the main office of any state park. 

Treasure Alabama’s 22 State Parks.

To learn more and get involved volunteer join the Alabama State Parks Partners Facebook page today!