Opportunities From: Delaware State Parks

Note: Orientation/training is required to become a member of the Climbing Conservation Crew.

Alapocas Run State Park welcomes volunteers who would like to help care for its rock-climbing wall as well as the landing zone and access trail for it!

The famous Blue Granite Cliffs in Alapocas Run State Park are the home of the only natural rock-climbing wall in Delaware and help to make the park one of the most unique places in the state to visit. The park offers top-rope climbing programs. Visitors may acquire a free permit from the Blue Ball Barn to climb on their own.

Primary duties:

* — Requires extensive climbing experience, knowledge of safe tool use while climbing, prior authorization from park staff, and member of park staff to be present.

Needs can be significant after weather events.

Members of the Climbing Conservation Crew may also be invited to work on special group projects for the site.

Scheduling is flexible:

Visitors who enjoy rock-climbing and moderate-to-difficult trails and/or are passionate about the preservation of access to such opportunities are excellent candidates to volunteer with the Climbing Conservation Crew!

Note: If you respond to this opportunity, you will be contacted about next steps.

Bellevue State Park welcomes volunteers who would like to help care for its reimagined Pollinator Garden!

The Pollinator Garden lies in what used to be known as the Butterfly Garden near the main road between the concert bandshell and the tennis courts on the way to Bellevue Hall.

Primary duties:

Needs can be significant after weather events.

Volunteers who RESPOND to Pollinator Garden Gang may also be invited to work on special projects for the site, such as plantings or refurbishments.

Is your group interested in incorporating this project in their team-building, class, or club service event? RESPOND AS TEAM and contact the Manager of Volunteers.

Scheduling is flexible:

Visitors who enjoy exploring the park and its colorful landscapes, are interested in the pollination cycle and stewardship of the local ecosystem, and/or are passionate about the importance of this kind of project are excellent candidates to volunteer with the Pollinator Garden Gang!

Note: If you respond to this opportunity, you will be contacted about next steps.

Bellevue State Park welcomes Girl Scouts who are pursuing a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award and Boy Scouts who will be completing an Eagle Scout Service Project!

Bellevue State Park appreciates the long history of Scouts’ service with Delaware State Parks and is familiar with the processes to achieve such Scout honors. The park may identify potential service projects that would satisfy the requirements of a Girl Scout Award or an Eagle Scout Service Project. Scouts are also welcome to submit proposals for service projects to the park.

Requirements:

Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts who enjoy visiting Bellevue State Park, are passionate about taking care of natural spaces and supporting local ecosystems, and/or are passionate about supporting Delaware State Parks’ mission are excellent candidates to complete a service project at the park for a Girl Scout Award or the Eagle Scout Rank!

Alapocas Run State Park welcomes Girl Scouts who are pursuing a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award and Boy Scouts who will be completing an Eagle Scout Service Project!

Alapocas Run State Park appreciates the long history of Scouts’ service with Delaware State Parks and is familiar with the processes to achieve such Scout honors. The park may identify potential service projects that would satisfy the requirements of a Girl Scout Award or an Eagle Scout Service Project. Scouts are also welcome to submit proposals for service projects to the park.

Requirements:

Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts who enjoy visiting Alapocas Run State Park, are passionate about taking care of natural spaces and supporting local ecosystems, and/or are passionate about supporting Delaware State Parks’ mission are excellent candidates to complete a service project at the park for a Girl Scout Award or the Eagle Scout Rank!

Wilmington State Parks welcomes Girl Scouts who are pursuing a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award and Boy Scouts who will be completing an Eagle Scout Service Project!

Wilmington State Parks appreciates the long history of Scouts’ service with Delaware State Parks and is familiar with the processes to achieve such Scout honors. The park may identify potential service projects that would satisfy the requirements of a Girl Scout Award or an Eagle Scout Service Project. Scouts are also welcome to submit proposals for service projects to the park.

Requirements:

Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts who enjoy visiting Wilmington State Parks (Brandywine Park, Rockford Park, H. Fletcher Brown Park, Happy Valley neighborhood park, and Kentmere Parkway) are passionate about taking care of natural spaces and supporting local ecosystems, and/or are passionate about supporting Delaware State Parks’ mission are excellent candidates to complete a service project at the park for a Girl Scout Award or the Eagle Scout Rank!

Summer Concert Volunteers are needed to help the Friends of White Clay Creek State Park make the concerts even more entertaining and fun!

When: Concerts happen every Wednesday evening, from mid June to the end of August.  Volunteers are expected to help with a few concerts, not all of them

Who: Raffle ticket sales suitable for individuals age 18 and over.  Age 21 and over to volunteer in the beer garden.

Wear: comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather.

Parking: Carpenter Recreation area, 880 New London Road (Highway 896) in Newark.

NEW VOLUNTEERS: please RESPOND and we hope to see you soon.

**Active Concert Volunteers** Please remember to use Add Hours to enter your volunteer hours. Your time and efforts are greatly appreciated, allowing the concert series to be a popular success.

Do you want to get involved with the Brandywine Zoo, but you don't see an opportunity that aligns with your interests? Let's connect!

We may have individual opportunities for volunteers outside of our programs and events, which range from stand-alone conservation efforts to animal observation or gardening. Interested volunteers can respond to this opportunity or email the Manager of Volunteers, Luvina, to learn more about our current needs. Luvina will reach out to learn about your interests, as well as highlight any upcoming needs we may have.

Note: At this time, it is against zoo policy to allow volunteers to work with our animals. This is for both your safety and the safety of our animals.

Visit the link below to find out more about the Friends of White Clay Creek State Park.

https://www.whiteclayfriends.org/

Friends groups are independent non-profit organizations of community members dedicated to assisting a particular park. Friends groups help with special events and programs, park maintenance, planning, fundraising, staffing the nature centers and advocating for the park.

Please join the team and help your favorite park!

From the Friends’ website:

The Friends are avid supporters of Lums Pond State Park. They:

Visit the Friends of Lums Pond State Park website to learn more about the Friends and how to become a member or other ways to contribute to this organization and your favorite park.

Are you a member of Trail Spinners, the mountain bike club dedicated to building and maintaining trails for mountain biking in Delaware, Maryland and Pennsylvania?  

If you are a mountain biker and not a member yet, find out how to join at this link:  https://www.trailspinners.org/how-to-join

Trail Spinners do trail maintenance work in White Clay Creek State Park such as keeping the David English trail in good shape after storms.  

When: Trail Spinners can keep you informed about work days

Who: Members of Delaware Trail Spinners.

Wear: long pants, closed toed shoes and layered clothing that can get dirty and is suitable for the weather.

Bring: work gloves and a personal water bottle. Other necessary tools will be indicated for the work day.

Parking: will be indicated for work day

NOTE: Ticks are active in the park and poison ivy may be present. Please use caution and do a tick check on returning home.

NEW VOLUNTEERS please RESPOND and you will receive further information.

The Brandywine Zoo welcomes individuals to assist us with special events throughout the year! Events may include Boo at the Zoo, Sip and Strolls, and more!

Some tasks you might be assigned to do:

Please respond to this opportunity individually or as a small group. Please be aware, most events only require 2-6 volunteers, so spots are limited. Interested volunteers will receive reoccurring emails from the Manager of Volunteers about upcoming events and opportunities. If you're interested in a specific opportunity, please indicate the event in the notes.

ABC Server Certification not required but highly recommended.

Unfortunately, it is against our policy to allow volunteers to work with our animals at this time. This is both for the safety of our volunteers and our animals. 

Wilmington State Parks welcomes volunteers who are interested in helping to keep our parks free of litter.

The Wilmington State Parks maintenance team does an excellent job every day picking up litter in our parks. Weather events and other circumstances can lead to a need for additional help to address litter, however.

We are thankful for the countless volunteers who have helped to keep our parks — Brandywine, Rockford, H. Fletcher Brown, and Happy Valley parks, along with Kentmere Parkway — clean and accessible.

Note: Volunteers must report safety concerns, including suspicious (e.g., someone’s belongings) or dangerous litter (e.g., sharp edges or points) to park staff.

Wilmington State Parks welcomes volunteers who would like to help care for any of the garden beds throughout the park system.

Wilmington State Parks — Brandywine, Rockford, H. Fletcher Brown, and Happy Valley parks, along with Kentmere Parkway — are home to a variety of garden beds. Some park garden beds are not just decorative; they are increasingly becoming functional spaces intended to support local ecosystems.

Volunteers help to meet the needs of these garden beds and thus make a significant difference.

Primary duties:

Needs can be significant after weather events.

We are grateful for the countless volunteers who have helped to steward the garden beds in our parks and maintain their purpose as well as beauty.

Note: The Jasper Crane Rose Garden is not part of this opportunity. To learn more about stewardship of the Jasper Crane Rose Garden, please visit the Friends of Wilmington Parks’ website.

Wilmington State Parks welcomes volunteers who are interested in helping to reduce the threat of invasive plants to the land and resources that we have been entrusted to protect and manage.

The task facing our collective of parks — Brandywine, Rockford, H. Fletcher Brown, and Happy Valley parks, along with Kentmere Parkway — and local ecosystems is considerable. It requires a concerted, coordinated effort. Fortunately, public consciousness about the harms of invasive plants — plants not native to the region that grow aggressively, complete with native plants for resources, and displace native plants — continues to rise.

Volunteers help to meet this challenge and thus make a significant difference in Wilmington State Parks’ quest to manage invasive plants. We are eager to work with like-minded people who are passionate or want to learn more about this issue. Experience is beneficial but not necessary.

How volunteers can get involved:

Note: Orientation or training (verification) is required to volunteer on your own. If you respond to this opportunity, you will be contacted about next steps.

Resources for those who want to learn more:

Alapocas Run State Park welcomes volunteers who are interested in helping to reduce the threat of invasive plants to the land and resources that we have been entrusted to protect and manage.

The task facing our park and local ecosystems is considerable. It requires a concerted, coordinated effort. Fortunately, public consciousness about the harms of invasive plants — plants not native to the region that grow aggressively, complete with native plants for resources, and displace native plants — continues to rise.

Volunteers help to meet this challenge and thus make a significant difference in Alapocas Run State Park’s quest to manage invasive plants. We are eager to work with like-minded people who are passionate or want to learn more about this issue. Experience is beneficial but not necessary.

How volunteers can get involved:

Note: Orientation or training (verification) is required to volunteer on your own. If you respond to this opportunity, you will be contacted about next steps.

Resources for those who want to learn more:

Alapocas Run State Park welcomes volunteers who would like to help care for the park’s landscape beds.

Alapocas Run State Park is home to a variety of garden beds at or near heavily trafficked sites such as the Blue Ball Barn. Some park garden beds are not just decorative; they are increasingly becoming functional spaces intended to support local ecosystems, reduce runoff, and more.

Volunteers help to meet the needs of these landscaped areas and thus make a significant difference.

Primary duties:

Needs can be significant after weather events.

We are grateful for the countless volunteers who have helped to steward the garden beds in our parks and maintain their purpose as well as beauty.

Note: The Storybook Trail garden beds are not part of this opportunity. To learn more about stewardship of the Storybook Trail garden beds, please visit its opportunity page.

Bellevue State Park welcomes work, school, and other groups interested in scheduling a service project for their teams, classes, etc.

A group service project is a great way to provide your organization with an opportunity:

The types of group service projects available are based on seasonal needs at Bellevue State Park and Fox Point State Park, progress of the parks’ improvement projects, and other factors. Service projects for school groups may prioritize educational value and are intended to be age-appropriate.

Types of seasonal group service projects include:

Coordinators for group service projects may RESPOND AS TEAM to this opportunity and ask about scheduling a date and time that is compatible with the group’s schedule. Coordinators are also welcome to RESPOND AS TEAM to a scheduled service project if there are enough available shifts.

Note: The project site’s address may differ from the park’s address and will be provided during scheduling of a group service project.

Alapocas Run State Park welcomes work, school, and other groups interested in scheduling a service project for their teams, classes, etc.

A group service project is a great way to provide your organization with an opportunity:

The types of group service projects available are based on seasonal needs at Alapocas Run State Park, progress of the park’s improvement projects, and other factors. Service projects for school groups may prioritize educational value and are intended to be age-appropriate.

Types of seasonal group service projects include:

Coordinators for group service projects may RESPOND AS TEAM to this opportunity and ask about scheduling a date and time that is compatible with the group’s schedule. Coordinators are also welcome to RESPOND AS TEAM to a scheduled service project if there are enough available shifts.

Note: The project site’s address may differ from the park’s address and will be provided during scheduling of a group service project.

Wilmington State Parks welcomes work, school, and other groups interested in scheduling a service project for their teams, classes, etc. Sites include Brandywine Park, Rockford Park, H. Fletcher Brown Park, Happy Valley Park, and Kentmere Parkway.

A group service project is a great way to provide your organization with an opportunity:

The types of group service projects available are based on seasonal needs at Wilmington State Parks, progress of the park’s improvement projects, and other factors. Service projects for school groups may prioritize educational value and are intended to be age-appropriate.

Types of seasonal group service projects include:

Coordinators for group service projects may RESPOND AS TEAM to this opportunity and ask about scheduling a date and time that is compatible with the group’s schedule. Coordinators are also welcome to RESPOND AS TEAM to a scheduled service project if there are enough available shifts.

Note: The project site’s address may differ from the park’s address and will be provided during scheduling of a group service project.

Hours collection.

From the Friends’ website:

Friends of Bellevue State Park is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the scenic, historic, and wildlife values of the park through dialogue, volunteering, education, and fundraising. We welcome new members!

The Friends are avid supporters of Bellevue State Park and Fox Point State Park. The Friends:

Friends of Bellevue State Park were recognized for their efforts and dedication with a 2022 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award by the State Office of Volunteerism. Visit the Friends’ website to learn more about Friends of Bellevue State Park and how to become a member or other ways to contribute to this award-winning organization and your favorite park.

The Delaware State Parks Adopt-a-Trail Program was established to help individuals and groups become active environmental stewards of the various types of trails within Delaware State Parks.  Trail adopters regularly monitor our trails, performing basic maintenance tasks on the trail and reporting larger concerns or issues for staff to address.  Through monitoring efforts, our trail adopters help keep the trails clear and safe for all to enjoy.

Our trail volunteers are our eyes and ears on the trails. We have 160 miles of trails throughout the 17 state parks in Delaware and we are always adding new ones.  With so many miles of trails to maintain, we rely heavily on our Adopt-A-Trail volunteers to perform basic maintenance tasks and report any issues that require staff attention.  We cannot do this without YOU! 

Alapocas Run State Park is home to a stretch of the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail, a trail system in Alapocas Woods, and other social paths.

Primary duties:

Needs can be significant after weather events.

Volunteers will help in the Campground Store - 

This is not for long term assistance; more just when help is needed, we will reach out and see if you are available. Help will be needed mainly on Sundays and Mondays. 

Thank you! Any and all help is greatly appreciated!

Is your Scout Troop interested in volunteering at Trap Pond State Park? Need to earn merit badges or just want to help the environment and your community? Sign up here and let's make it happen! 

*When you "respond" to this opportunity please specify in the notes section if you are a Troop leader or a Scout. As well as a little more info about what your intentions are, if there is a specific type of project you're looking for. 

This is where you will be logging your volunteer hours after you complete a project as well. 

Thank you for your interest in volunteering and all the effort you put into helping our State Parks!

"Adopt-A-Hole" volunteers assist with the upkeep of Disc Golf Course holes at White Clay Creek State Park. On at least a monthly basis Adopt-A-Hole volunteers walk their assigned disc golf area to clip back overgrowing vegetation, pick up litter, and report on course/hole conditions.  Your efforts will help keep the course open and welcoming for park visitors. We couldn't do it without you!

When: during the growing season, from March thru November

Who: suitable for individuals and for small teams up to 5 people.

Wear: long pants, closed toed shoes and layered clothing that can get dirty and is suitable for the weather.

Bring: your work gloves, loppers and hand pruners   

Parking: Assigned volunteers park in a lot near their Disc Golf location. If you do not have a state park parking pass, you can receive a temporary parking pass for use during your volunteer visits only.

NEW VOLUNTEERS: please RESPOND and you will receive further information.

**Trained and active Adopt-A-Hole members** Please remember to use Add Hours to enter your volunteer hours. Your time and efforts are greatly appreciated, allowing visitors to have a great trail experience.

Are you a Boy/Eagle Scout or Troop looking for somewhere to complete a project? We'd love to have you volunteer at Killens Pond! 

When you sign up please provide us with some brief information:

Look forward to working with you!

This is also where your volunteer hours will be logged once project is complete. 

Delaware State Parks is a Local Organizing Partner (LOP) of the Delaware Master Naturalist (DMN) Program.

Note: This opportunity is only for registrants in the DMN Program—a certification offered in partnership between the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension and Delaware Nature Society—or certified DMNs.

The DMN Program is a remarkable opportunity for professionals as well as enthusiasts to become a certified Delaware Master Naturalist.

From the website:

The Delaware Master Naturalist Program trains citizens as ambassadors and stewards of Delaware’s natural resources and ecosystems through science-based education and volunteer opportunities.

It requires registrants to complete 40 hours of service time with a Local Organizing Partner (LOP) to achieve certification as well as 40 hours annually afterward to maintain it.

Fort Delaware State Park welcomes first-year candidates as well as continuing-service participants. Service projects can be as varied as the volunteer’s interests that align with park priorities. The park may identify service projects that would satisfy the requirements of the certification. DMN candidates and continuing-service volunteers are also welcome to submit proposals for service projects to the park.

Does your 4-H club want to volunteer at Trap Pond State Park?!   

- Yes!

Then sign up here!  

(You can either have the club leader create one account that everyone in the groups volunteer hours will be logged under  OR  all club members create an account and sign up under this opportunity as a "Team" to log hours) 

Feel free to email me with any questions:   zoe.mast@delaware.gov

Adopt-a-Trail Program

The Delaware State Parks Adopt-a-Trail Program was established to help individuals and groups become active environmental stewards of the various types of trails within Delaware State Parks.  Trail adopters regularly monitor our trails, performing basic maintenance tasks on the trail and reporting larger concerns or issues for staff to address.  Through monitoring efforts, our trail adopters help keep the trails clear and safe for all to enjoy.  Thank YOU for your interest in being a part of this program!

Task you would be completing:

·       Pick up trash

·       Remove natural debris

·       Trim Vegetation

·       Invasive plant removal (only after being trained by Park Staff)

·       Report areas of concern

Time Commitment:

Trail volunteers come out to their trail at any time that works for them, within Park operating hours. Volunteers commit to monitoring their trail at least once a month. Trail volunteers can expect to spend 1 - 2 hours on their trails each visit, depending on the length of their trail and work level.

Reporting:

For each monitoring visit, trail volunteers submit a trail report documenting any work that they did on the trail and describing any additional work required by staff.

Benefits of the Program:

Once you sign up under this opportunity you will be emailed to set up a time to meet with the Volunteer Coord. to go over more details, sign service agreement and set up a training time.

Adopt-a-Trail Program

The Delaware State Parks Adopt-a-Trail Program was established to help individuals and groups become active environmental stewards of the various types of trails within Delaware State Parks.  Trail adopters regularly monitor our trails, performing basic maintenance tasks on the trail and reporting larger concerns or issues for staff to address.  Through monitoring efforts, our trail adopters help keep the trails clear and safe for all to enjoy.  Thank YOU for your interest in being a part of this program!

Task you would be completing:

·       Pick up trash

·       Remove natural debris

·       Trim Vegetation

·       Invasive plant removal (only after being trained by Park Staff)

·       Report areas of concern

Time Commitment:

Trail volunteers come out to their trail at any time that works for them, within Park operating hours. Volunteers commit to monitoring their trail at least once a month. Trail volunteers can expect to spend 1 - 2 hours on their trails each visit, depending on the length of their trail and work level.

Reporting:

For each monitoring visit, trail volunteers submit a trail report documenting any work that they did on the trail and describing any additional work required by staff.

Benefits of the Program:

Once you sign up under this opportunity you will be emailed to set up a time to meet with the Volunteer Coord. to go over more details, sign service agreement and set up a training time.

First State Heritage Park welcomes volunteers to bring the history of the John Bell House to life as interpreters! You can help visitors really feel like they are walking into a house from the 18th Century.

Experience and knowledge are welcome, but not required. All you need is an eagerness to learn and a passion for local and regional history! We’d love to see you there!

As a volunteer interpreter, you can:

The John Bell House at First State Heritage Park was built in the mid-1700s and offers a glimpse into the everyday life of Dover’s earliest days. Learn about marching Revolutionaries, Freedom Seekers, Suffragists, and more, and bring their stories to life! 

This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in local history, storytelling, and programming. We are grateful for all of our volunteers who help us create a welcoming atmosphere at our park!

First State Heritage Park welcomes Girl Scouts who are pursuing a Gold Award and Boy Scouts who are pursuing the Eagle Rank!

Delaware State Parks appreciates the long history of Scouts’ service and is familiar with the processes to achieve such Scout honors. The park may identify potential service projects that would satisfy the requirements of a Girl Scout Gold Award or an Eagle Scout Service Project. Scouts are also welcome to submit proposals for service projects to the park.

Requirements:

Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts who enjoy visiting First State Heritage Park, are passionate about history and preservation, and/or are passionate about supporting Delaware State Parks’ mission are excellent candidates to complete a service project at the park for a Girl Scout Gold Award or the Boy Scout Eagle Rank!

Fort Delaware State Park welcomes Girl Scouts who are pursuing a Gold Award and Boy Scouts who are pursuing the Eagle Rank!

Delaware State Parks appreciates the long history of Scouts’ service and is familiar with the processes to achieve such Scout honors. The park may identify potential service projects that would satisfy the requirements of a Girl Scout Gold Award or an Eagle Scout Service Project. Scouts are also welcome to submit proposals for service projects to the park.

Requirements:

Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts who enjoy visiting Fort Delaware State Park, are passionate about history and preservation, and/or are passionate about supporting Delaware State Parks’ mission are excellent candidates to complete a service project at the park for a Girl Scout Gold Award or the Boy Scout Eagle Rank!

Description

Delaware Seashore State Park, boasting six miles of ocean and 20 miles of bay shoreline, serves as an important part of the southern Delaware coastline. The dynamic Indian River Inlet connects the Indian River and Rehoboth Bays with the Atlantic Ocean and is the epicenter of the park’s many activities. A beach lies on either side of the inlet, welcoming anglers and beachgoers who stay for the day or overnight at the park’s waterfront campground and cottages. The Indian River Life-Saving Station, built in 1876 for use by the United States Lifesaving Service to respond to shipwrecks, now pays homage to its maritime heritage while doubling as a coastal event space and educational center. The barrier beach and inland bays provide the perfect salt marsh habitat and nesting grounds for birds and terrapins. More than seven miles of trails welcome hikers, bikers, and birders.

Campground hosts assist campers and park staff within Delaware Seashore’s campground by greeting campers, assisting with check-in/check-out, distributing information and answering questions about the Park. Hosts will also assist with general maintenance, and other campground services as needed.

Term of Service Requirements

Responsibilities

Host Site Amenities

Desired Skills

Direct Supervisor
Hosts report directly to the Campground Manager.

Host Benefits

You will be required to pass a background check to become a Host. You will not be asked to complete a background check until you are referred to the park for a second interview and the park extends an offer to become a Host.

Basic computer proficiency and access to a personal computer are required to complete the application and onboarding process. Hosts will need to be able to navigate online forms, send and receive email, and access training materials electronically.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are interested in becoming a new campground host, please respond to the "Campground Host - Killens Pond State Park (2026)". 

Description
Centrally located in Delaware, Killens Pond State Park showcases a lovely, secluded pond surrounded by a mixed hardwood forest, ideal for boating, fishing, or hiking with miles of trails and acres of fields. The Park also has a Water Park that includes spiraling slides and interactive water features with a tot lot for younger children.
Hosts work together at this park to help maintain the campground, 11 cabins, one bathhouse, and answering visitors’ questions and enriching guest experiences.

 Term of Service Requirements

 Responsibilities

 Host Site Amenities

 Desired Skills

Direct Supervisor
Hosts report directly to Park Management Staff.

Host Benefits

You will be required to pass a background check to become a Host. You will not be asked to complete a background check until you are referred to the park for a second interview and the park extends an offer to become a Host.

Basic computer proficiency and access to a personal computer are required to complete the application and onboarding process. Hosts will need to be able to navigate online forms, send and receive email, and access training materials electronically.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Surrounding Delaware’s largest freshwater pond, Lums Pond State Park offers a variety of recreational activities. Seventeen miles of trails wind through hardwood forest of varying ages from mature to young growth, which can also be experienced via the Go Ape Treetop Course. Wetlands around the park are home to reptiles, amphibians, and notable dragonfly species. The boathouse offers a variety of watercrafts to explore the pond up close. The campground welcomes tents and RVs while a primitive campsite is available for groups.

Campground Hosts assist campers and park staff by greeting campers, distributing information, assisting with registration and checkout, setup, litter pickup, grounds maintenance, and housekeeping.

Service Requirements

Primary Responsibilities

Host Site Amenities

Desired Skills

Direct Supervisor
Hosts report directly to Park Management Staff.

Benefits

You will be required to pass a background check to become a Host. You will not be asked to complete a background check until you are referred to the park for a second interview and the park extends an offer to become a Host.

Basic computer proficiency and access to a personal computer are required to complete the application and onboarding process. Hosts will need to be able to navigate online forms, send and receive email, and access training materials electronically.

A hidden gem tucked away in Southern Delaware, Trap Pond State Park boasts the northernmost natural stand of bald cypress trees on the East Coast. Come to Trap and enjoy the natural wonders and beautiful recreational opportunities available such as fishing, boating, and miles of natural trails.

Campground Host assist campers and park staff by greeting campers, distributing information, assisting with registration and checkout, litter, light maintenance, and housekeeping.
Term of Service

Primary Responsibilities 

Host Site Amenities

Desired Skills

Direct Supervisor
Hosts report directly to Campground Supervisor

Host Benefits

You will be required to pass a background check to become a Host. You will not be asked to complete a background check until you are referred to the park for a second interview and the park extends an offer to become a Host.

Basic computer proficiency and access to a personal computer are required to complete the application and onboarding process. Hosts will need to be able to navigate online forms, send and receive email, and access training materials electronically.

Auburn Valley State Park has a need for volunteers willing to be contacted when there are one or even day projects to do at the park.  This would include cleaning out a building or doing some cleaning inside a building, planting trees and other projects that come up.  As projects come up, I would email you and ask if you are interested and available to assist, along with the details of the project. 

You would be a wonderful resource for us to have.

Brandywine Creek State Park welcomes work, school, and other groups interested in scheduling a service project for their teams, classes, and more!

A group service project is a great way to provide your organization with an opportunity:

The types of service projects available to groups are based on seasonal needs at Brandywine Creek State Park, progress of the parks’ improvement projects, and other factors. Service projects for school groups may prioritize educational value and are intended to be age-appropriate.

Types of seasonal service projects available to groups include:

Coordinators for group service projects may RESPOND AS TEAM to this opportunity and ask about scheduling a date and time that is compatible with the group’s schedule. Coordinators are also welcome to RESPOND AS TEAM to a scheduled service project if there are enough available shifts.

Note: The project site’s address may differ from the park’s address and will be provided during scheduling of a group service project.

Are you a scout completing a project for your awards and ranks or a scout leader searching for service projects for your troop? Brandywine Creek State Park welcomes individual scouts and scouting troops for project opportunities and learning experiences!

We appreciate the long history of Scouts’ service with Delaware State Parks and are familiar with the processes to achieve such Scout honors. The park can identify potential service opportunities for entire troops or projects that would satisfy the requirements of a Girl Scout Award or an Eagle Scout Service Project. Scouts are also welcome to submit proposals for service projects to the park.

Volunteers can respond to this opportunity to indicate your interest in completing a scouting project at Brandywine Creek State Park.

Requirements:

Scouts and scouting troops who enjoy visiting Brandywine Creek State Park, are passionate about taking care of natural spaces and supporting local ecosystems, and/or are passionate about supporting Delaware State Parks are excellent candidates to complete a service project at the park!

THANK YOU for your dedication to ensuring smooth operations at the Indian River Marina during busy after-hours periods!

Queuing Dock Assistants play a key role in helping boaters safely and efficiently navigate the marina's docking areas from 3 PM to 7 PM. This position helps reduce congestion and maintain a positive experience for all marina visitors.

Primary Responsibilities:

Your support is vital to keeping the marina organized and enjoyable during the busy evening hours!

Wilmington State Parks is seeking dedicated volunteers to help combat the spread of invasive plants and protect our local ecosystems. Invasive species threaten the health of our parks by outcompeting native plants, disrupting habitats, and diminishing biodiversity. With your help, we can restore balance and preserve these natural spaces for future generations.

Tackling invasive plants requires a coordinated, hands-on effort, and growing public awareness makes this an exciting time to get involved.

No experience? No problem! Whether you're passionate about conservation or simply curious to learn more, we welcome all volunteers who want to make a tangible impact. Join us for a rewarding experience in nature, connect with like-minded individuals, and be part of the solution.

Ready to help? Sign up today and make a difference in Wilmington State Parks!

When:

October

Thursday: 10/23 at 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m.

Fridays: 10/17 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m.

November

Thursdays 11/6 and 11/20 - 4:30 pm-6p.m.

Fridays: 11/14 and 11/28 -9:30 am-11am

Who: Suitable for individuals and for families with children 12 and over. Parent consent form required for children under 18. Parent or guardian supervision required for children under 16. Also suitable for groups and corporate teams.

Wear: long pants, closed toed shoes and layered clothing that can get dirty and is suitable for the weather.

Bring: hand saws, pruners, loppers, chisels and work gloves.

Meeting Location:  Habitat Hill Brandywine Park which is at base of the swinging pedestrian bridge on the Trolley Sq side of the river.- After parking in the Parking Lot at the Brandywine Zoo cross over the swinging bridge. Habitat Hill will be in that area. (GPS: 39.75985, -75.55711) 

Parking: Parking Lot at the Parking Lot under RT95- Address 1116 N Park Dr. Wilmington DE 

*New Volunteers* Please click the green RESPOND button above to receive further information.

Email: jenniferlang0@gmail.com

Plants and Plant Communities resource page — Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), Division of Fish and WildlifeFlora of Delaware Online Database — University of Delaware Water Resources CenterDISC Invasive Plant List — Delaware Invasive Species CouncilNon-native Plants of Delaware (January 2021) — DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife

In addition to the meadows throughout our rolling hills, our pollinator garden is a crucial source of pollen for native pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and more! Brandywine Creek State Park is seeking Adopt-A-Garden volunteers who can help us care for the garden throughout the growing season.

Tools and experience are welcome, but not required. We will provide additional training as needed for our volunteers.

As an Adopt-A-Garden volunteer, you will:

Adopters will visit their assigned garden area at least twice a month during the growing season (April-October) to pull weeds, aid with watering, and keeping the garden in good health. Training on trimming and basic garden maintenance will be provided before you begin the program. Training is required to participate in the program.

For more information, please contact the Brandywine Creek Manager of Volunteers at: Luvina.cooley@delaware.gov

Brandywine Zoo is looking for dedicated volunteers to join our Adopt-A-Garden program! Our gardens on zoo grounds help us provide habitat for native pollinators, provide seeds for birds to eat, and help us educate zoo guests about the natural world all around us. However, they require consistent weeding and watering to keep them healthy, and we can use your help!

As an Adopt-A-Garden volunteer, you can expect to:

Tools and experience are welcome, but not required. Volunteers will be assigned a garden bed, and will be provided with information about the plants in each area.

Volunteers will be responsible for attending to their gardens weekly, and will coordinate their schedule with the Manager of Volunteers. Each Adopt-A-Garden visit may last up to an hour.

Interested volunteers can respond to this opportunity either individually or as a small team (four people or less). Questions regarding the Brandywine Zoo Adopt-A-Garden program can be directed to the Manager of Volunteers at luvina.cooley@delaware.gov.

Thank you for your interest in historical interpretation at Fort Delaware State Park!

This is a private opportunity for historical interpreters not associated with a special event at Fort Delaware to log their hours.

Please note - all historical interpreter volunteers must complete the following:

Volunteers conducting historical interpretation at Fort Delaware State Park will be able to partake in a variety of impressions including:

If you have any questions, please reach out to Arden Locker at Arden.Locker@Delaware.gov or Jake Miller at Jacob.Miller@Delaware.gov or

Wilmington State Parks is Joining the Monarch Larva Monitoring Project (MLMP)

Are you passionate about nature, conservation, or citizen science? Do you want to make a difference in protecting one of North America's most iconic and threatened pollinators — the monarch butterfly?

The Monarch Larva Monitoring Project (MLMP) needs your help!
Led by the Monarch Joint Venture and the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Arboretum, MLMP is a national, community science project that tracks monarch egg and larval populations across the U.S. The data collected by volunteers is crucial for understanding how monarch populations are changing and how we can better protect them.

The MLMP was created to better understand the distribution and abundance of monarchs during their breeding season. Volunteers across the country monitor milkweed plants for monarch eggs and caterpillars, contributing data that is used by scientists and conservationists to inform national strategies for monarch recovery. 

Monitoring site — WSP has designated a site in Brandywine Park near Habitat Hill. Directions: Park in Brandywine Park, walk over swinging bridge and the monitoring site is right there. Or Park on Lovering Ave and walk down the hill to the site.

Visit regularly — Monitor your site weekly (or as often as possible) during the monarch breeding season (typically late spring through early fall).

Collect data — Count milkweed stems, monarch eggs, and larvae. Report any predators or parasitoids you observe.

Submit observations online — Your data helps scientists identify important breeding areas, population trends, and conservation needs.

WSP will provide training guides, online resources, and data entry tools. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a curious beginner, you'll be fully supported every step of the way. Training opportunities are available online and sometimes in person through partner organizations.

Individuals and families

Classrooms and youth groups

Scout troops, nature centers, and environmental organizations

Anyone with a love of nature and a little free time!

Monarch populations have declined dramatically in recent decades due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. By monitoring larvae and eggs, we gain a better understanding of how and where monarchs are reproducing — and how to protect them.

Learn more at: https://mlmp.org/about

Help monarchs one milkweed at a time 

Do you love spending time outdoors and want to help protect your favorite trails? Join our Adopt-A-Trail program and make a meaningful impact in your community.

What is Adopt-A-Trail?
Adopt-A-Trail is a volunteer stewardship program that invites individuals, families, school groups, businesses, and community organizations to “adopt” a specific trail within our parks. By adopting a trail, your group agrees to help maintain it throughout the year by performing light maintenance, removing litter, identifying safety issues, and ensuring trails remain safe and accessible for all park users.

This is a flexible, low-commitment way to give back, get outside, and support the conservation of Delaware’s beautiful trail systems. 

Available Trails:

Gordons Pond Trail

Junction & Breakwater Trail (two sections available)

How to Get Involved:

Click the link below to express your interest via our JotForm.

Respond to this opportunity on Galaxy Digital to complete your application.

Express Your Interest Here

Note: Completing both steps is essential to participate in the program.

Help keep our beaches beautiful by participating in a self-led litter pick-up! Whether you're a regular visitor or a first-time volunteer, your efforts help protect local wildlife, improve public spaces, and promote environmental stewardship.

Please note:
This is not a scheduled or staff-led event. This opportunity is simply a way for you to log your volunteer hours after completing a beach or litter clean-up on your own time.

Before you begin, please review these helpful guidelines:

Do:

Bring your own gloves and trash bags.

Wear closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather.

Use caution when picking up sharp objects, use a tool or leave them in place and notify park staff.

Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

Dispose of collected trash properly at park dumpsters or designated collection areas.

Log your hours and submit a quick summary of your clean-up through the platform or contact form.

Don’t:

Pick up hazardous waste (needles, chemicals, etc.), alert park staff if found.

Approach wildlife or disturb natural habitats.

Venture into restricted areas or private property.

Leave filled trash bags unattended, secure them in proper receptacles.

Work alone in remote areas, stick to well-traveled sections of the park or beach.

Thank you for being a part of our stewardship efforts! Your time and care make a real difference for the park, the community, and our wildlife. 

Help keep our beaches beautiful by participating in a self-led litter pick-up! Whether you're a regular visitor or a first-time volunteer, your efforts help protect local wildlife, improve public spaces, and promote environmental stewardship.

Please note:
This is not a scheduled or staff-led event. This opportunity is simply a way for you to log your volunteer hours after completing a beach or litter clean-up on your own time.

Before you begin, please review these helpful guidelines:

Do:

Bring your own gloves and trash bags.

Wear closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather.

Use caution when picking up sharp objects, use a tool or leave them in place and notify park staff.

Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

Dispose of collected trash properly at park dumpsters or designated collection areas.

Log your hours and submit a quick summary of your clean-up through the platform or contact form.

Don’t:

Pick up hazardous waste (needles, chemicals, etc.), alert park staff if found.

Approach wildlife or disturb natural habitats.

Venture into restricted areas or private property.

Leave filled trash bags unattended, secure them in proper receptacles.

Work alone in remote areas, stick to well-traveled sections of the park or beach.

Thank you for being a part of our stewardship efforts! Your time and care make a real difference for the park, the community, and our wildlife. 

Help keep our beaches beautiful by participating in a self-led litter pick-up! Whether you're a regular visitor or a first-time volunteer, your efforts help protect local wildlife, improve public spaces, and promote environmental stewardship.

Please note:
This is not a scheduled or staff-led event. This opportunity is simply a way for you to log your volunteer hours after completing a beach or litter clean-up on your own time.

Before you begin, please review these helpful guidelines:

Do:

Bring your own gloves and trash bags.

Wear closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather.

Use caution when picking up sharp objects, use a tool or leave them in place and notify park staff.

Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

Dispose of collected trash properly at park dumpsters or designated collection areas.

Log your hours and submit a quick summary of your clean-up through the platform or contact form.

Don’t:

Pick up hazardous waste (needles, chemicals, etc.), alert park staff if found.

Approach wildlife or disturb natural habitats.

Venture into restricted areas or private property.

Leave filled trash bags unattended, secure them in proper receptacles.

Work alone in remote areas, stick to well-traveled sections of the park or beach.

Thank you for being a part of our stewardship efforts! Your time and care make a real difference for the park, the community, and our wildlife. 

Do you want to get involved with Brandywine Creek State Park, but you don't see an opportunity that aligns with your interests? Let's connect!

We may have individual opportunities for volunteers outside of our programs and events, which range from stand-alone citizen science initiatives, conservation efforts or gardening. Interested volunteers can respond to this opportunity or email the Manager of Volunteers, Luvina, to learn more about our current needs. Luvina will reach out to learn about your interests, as well as highlight any upcoming needs we may have.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at Lums Pond State Park. We are thrilled to have passionate individuals join us in helping preserve and maintain our natural spaces and historical sites throughout the state!

Volunteering at Lums Pond can happen in many ways and can include, but is not limited to: 

Please note: 

If you are interested in volunteering at Lums Pond State Park, or have any questions, please contact the Manager of Volunteer Services Arden Locker at arden.locker@delaware.gov

Thank you for all that you do!

Brandywine Creek State Park hosts many events, and you can help make them a success! From our Friends of Brandywine Creek State Park's fishing derby, to Bug Days of Summer, Enchanted Meadows, and more, we have an opportunity for everyone! Roles will vary based on the event, but often include assisting with checking in guests, running craft stations, handing out candy, and floating between stations to better help guests and give other volunteers a break.

If you're interested in becoming an event volunteer with us, you can respond to the post, and the Manager of Volunteers will be in touch with more information about our upcoming events! Needs will vary, but are generally just a half or one-day commitment. 

Examples of yearly events include:

Please respond to this opportunity individually or as a small group. Please be aware, some events only require 2-6 volunteers, so spots may be limited. If you're interested in a specific opportunity, please indicate the event in the notes.

The pollinator garden at Brandywine Creek State Park benefits native pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and more, and we need your help to keep it healthy and usable for our visitors!

Once a week, on Fridays at 9:00am, our volunteer gardeners can come together to learn about and care for these gardens. Tools and experience are welcome, but are not required.

On each Green Thumb Gardeners outing, volunteers can expect to:

Green Thumb Gardeners typically meets for an hour every week at the Brandywine Creek State Park Nature Center. Interested volunteers can respond to this opportunity to learn more about about upcoming projects.

Please note: Green Thumb Gardeners will be meeting weekly throughout August and September, with additional meetings possible in October.

Volunteers interested in maintaining the garden but unable to attend on Friday mornings are encouraged to reach out to the Manager of Volunteers to identify alternative scheduling. All hands are welcome!

Do you love spending time outdoors and want to help protect your favorite trails? Join our Adopt-A-Trail program and make a meaningful impact in your community.

What is Adopt-A-Trail?
Adopt-A-Trail is a volunteer stewardship program that invites individuals, families, school groups, businesses, and community organizations to “adopt” a specific trail within our parks. By adopting a trail, your group agrees to help maintain it throughout the year by performing light maintenance, removing litter, identifying safety issues, and ensuring trails remain safe and accessible for all park users.

This is a flexible, low-commitment way to give back, get outside, and support the conservation of Delaware’s beautiful trail systems.

Available Trails:

Burton's Island Loop

Prickly Pear Trail

Fred Hudson Road Trail

Fresh Pond Access Road

Assawoman Canal Trail

Thompson Island Trail 

How to Get Involved:

Click the link below to express your interest via our JotForm.

Respond to this opportunity on Galaxy Digital to complete your application.

Express Your Interest Here

Note: Completing both steps is essential to participate in the program.

Are you a hunter here at Brandywine Creek State Park? Or perhaps you have a passion for conservation and want to help us responsibly manage our deer population? You can make a difference by joining Brandywine Creek State Park's  Adopt-A-Pin program!

What is Adopt-A-Pin?

Adopt-A-Pin is a volunteer stewardship program where individuals, families, and groups of all types can "adopt" one of our hunting pin/stand sites. Once you've adopted a pin, you'll help park staff maintain it by removing any litter along the trails, reporting safety issues and significant trail obstructions, and cutting back encroaching vegetation from the trails. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own loppers and pruners, but may also sign tools out from the park office with advance notice to the Manager of Volunteers.

What is my time commitment?

Pin adopters must visit their assigned pin(s) at least once a month, especially during the hunting season September-January. Regular maintenance of the pin site throughout the year make work in August before hunting season begins easier, and fall vegetation will still be growing throughout the month of September and sometimes October.

Please note: Between the months of September and early February, there is active hunting at all pin sites every day of the week except for Sunday. Please plan to provide maintenance on Sundays during this time. Hunters are also welcome to provide maintenance at their pin while hunting.

Available Pins for Adoption at Brandywine Creek:

Available Pins for Adoption at Brandywine Creek:

What's next?

To Adopt-A-Pin, simply respond to this opportunity! The Manager of Volunteers will be in touch with more details, including scheduling a brief training at the park to review your selected pin sites, tool safety, and proper pruning techniques. Once you've adopted your pin, volunteers will log their hours spent maintaining the pin here on this opportunity.

A hidden gem tucked away in Southern Delaware, Trap Pond State Park boasts the northernmost natural stand of bald cypress trees on the East Coast. Come to Trap and enjoy the natural wonders and beautiful recreational opportunities available such as fishing, boating, and miles of natural trails.

Campground Host assist campers and park staff by greeting campers, distributing information, assisting with registration and checkout, litter, light maintenance, and housekeeping.
Term of Service

Primary Responsibilities 

Host Site Amenities

Desired Skills

Direct Supervisor
Hosts report directly to Campground Supervisor

Host Benefits

You will be required to pass a background check to become a Host. You will not be asked to complete a background check until you are referred to the park for a second interview and the park extends an offer to become a Host.

Basic computer proficiency and access to a personal computer are required to complete the application and onboarding process. Hosts will need to be able to navigate online forms, send and receive email, and access training materials electronically.

Description
Centrally located in Delaware, Killens Pond State Park showcases a lovely, secluded pond surrounded by a mixed hardwood forest, ideal for boating, fishing, or hiking with miles of trails and acres of fields. The Park also has a Water Park that includes spiraling slides and interactive water features with a tot lot for younger children.
Hosts work together at this park to help maintain the campground, 11 cabins, one bathhouse, and answering visitors’ questions and enriching guest experiences.

 Term of Service Requirements

 Responsibilities

 Host Site Amenities

 Desired Skills

Direct Supervisor
Hosts report directly to Park Management Staff.

Host Benefits

You will be required to pass a background check to become a Host. You will not be asked to complete a background check until you are referred to the park for a second interview and the park extends an offer to become a Host.

Basic computer proficiency and access to a personal computer are required to complete the application and onboarding process. Hosts will need to be able to navigate online forms, send and receive email, and access training materials electronically.