Yosemite Volunteer Programs

Published May 3, 2026 10:54 am : Updated May 1, 2026 1:35 pm

Yosemite, CA — April was National Volunteer Month and as the month ended Yosemite National Park officials noted their thanks to all those who volunteer in the park. Park officials state that Yosemite has one of the largest volunteer programs in the National Park Service. Yosemite Park officials detail that volunteers provide many services including helping with visitor information at the visitor centers, studying rare birds of prey, picking up litter, and building trails. They state, “Thank you to all of our past, current, and future volunteers!”

Park officials also note the many volunteers who are committed to preserving Yosemite’s natural and cultural treasures for future generations adding, “The park would not be able to achieve all its goals for preservation and access without all those who contribute their time, energy, and passion each year.”

Throughout the year, Yosemite hosts several special events where volunteers can show up and help out. To get involved and support Yosemite, learn more about the scheduled events and how to sign up here www.nps.gov

Currently Yosemite is a stopover point for birds migrating thousands of miles north in search of seasonal food. Yosemite National Park officials note the park provides essential habitat for over 165 species of migrating, wintering, and breeding birds, in addition to nearly 100 other species the briefly drop in. Migrating birds can be seen and heard in Yosemite now as they foraging on insects, seeds, berries, or other birds to build their fat supplies to fuel their long journeys.

Yosemite is designated a World Heritage Site and an Important Bird Area, with numerous bird species of special concern in habitats ranging from foothill grasslands to alpine peaks. The park shared a photo of a white-faced ibis experiencing recent chilly April snow in Yosemite before continuing its migratory journey north.

The next drop-in volunteer date is for litter clean-up on June 15, 2026 from 10am – 1pm meet in front of the Exploration Center in Yosemite Village. Volunteers can just show up, no application needed, but all participants must sign this volunteer agreement. The form will be posted with each drop-in project, you can also sign one on the day of the project on-site.