Volunteer in Santa Cruz's State Parks

There's something special about spending time in Santa Cruz.

Maybe it's the quiet beneath the redwoods. Maybe it's watching the waves roll in after a morning hike. Whatever brings you here, Santa Cruz has a way of making you want to stay a little longer.

This year, California State Parks Foundation is making it even easier to experience these incredible places while giving back. Whether you're looking for your first volunteer opportunity or returning for another season of stewardship, there are several ways to get involved throughout the Santa Cruz District. 

Help Launch a New Volunteer Opportunity at The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park 

This August, California State Parks Foundation is excited to launch a new volunteer opportunity at The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park in partnership with the Advocates for Nisene Marks State Park. 

Tucked into the Santa Cruz Mountains near Aptos, Nisene Marks is the kind of place where a short walk can easily turn into an afternoon of exploring. This summer, volunteers have an opportunity to experience the park in a different way by caring for the forest itself. 

The first volunteer workday will focus on removing invasive English ivy near the park's Old Growth Loop. English ivy may look harmless, but it spreads quickly through the forest. As it climbs trees and blankets the forest floor, it crowds out native plants and makes it harder for the forest to thrive. 

During the workday, volunteers will: 

• Remove ivy climbing mature trees. 
• Clear invasive ivy from the forest floor. 
• Remove ivy regrowth from previously restored areas. 
• Improve habitat for native plants and wildlife. 
• Protect the long-term health of this remarkable redwood forest. 

No experience is necessary. Volunteers will receive the tools, instruction, and support needed throughout the day, making it a great opportunity for both first-time and returning volunteers. Sign up today for our first workday on August 30, 2026.  

Restore Coastal Habitat at Lighthouse Field State Beach 

Looking for an opportunity to volunteer by the ocean? On the first Saturday of the month, volunteers gather at Lighthouse Field State Beach to restore one of Santa Cruz's most iconic coastal parks. 

Volunteers spend the morning removing invasive plants, giving native coastal habitats room to recover. Workdays may also include planting native species and caring for restoration areas. 

With sweeping ocean views and meaningful work, these efforts help to protect rare black swift birds and wintering monarch butterflies in the park that migrate each winter to avoid freezing weather. It's a rewarding way to spend a Saturday morning outdoors while making a lasting impact on California's coastline. View the volunteer opportunity calendar here. 

Volunteer Beneath the Redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 

After spending Saturday restoring coastal habitat at Lighthouse Field State Beach, continue your volunteer weekend beneath the redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park on Sunday. 

Monthly workdays focus on repairing split-rail fencing, maintaining trails, trimming overgrown vegetation, and improving day-use areas that welcome thousands of visitors each year. These projects keep trails safe while preserving the natural beauty that makes Henry Cowell one of California's most beloved redwood parks. 

One of the unique perks of volunteering at Henry Cowell is free tent camping for registered volunteers before and after select workdays. Whether you're joining us for both volunteer events or simply enjoying a weekend in Santa Cruz, it's a great way to spend more time in the park. View the volunteer opportunity calendar here.  

Discover More of the Santa Cruz District 

If you're making the trip to volunteer, why not spend a little more time exploring everything the Santa Cruz District has to offer? 

One of the best parts about volunteering in Santa Cruz is everything waiting just beyond the workday. Spend the morning giving back, then head out for a hike beneath the redwoods, explore the coastline, visit the boardwalk, or grab lunch in town before heading home.  

Whether you stay for the afternoon or make a weekend of it, volunteering gives you a different connection to these parks. You'll head home knowing you left them a little better than you found them. 

Join Us 

Whether you're volunteering for the first time or coming back for another season, we'd love to see you in the Santa Cruz District. 

Spend Saturday restoring coastal habitat at Lighthouse Field State Beach, then head beneath the redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park on Sunday. Or be among the first volunteers to take part in The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. 

However you choose to get involved, you'll be joining a community of people who care deeply about California's state parks. 

We hope to see you at an upcoming volunteer workday.