Volunteer
Volunteer

Volunteer Vacations: Give Back While Exploring the Outdoors

What are Volunteer Vacations?

Volunteer Vacations is a multi-day volunteer stewardship experience offered by the San Diego County Parks Society, in partnership with the San Diego County Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). Volunteers take part in hands-on projects that preserve and enhance our county parks, while enjoying time outdoors and connecting with others who care about public lands.

From restoring historic sites to revitalizing trails and habitats, Volunteer Vacations offers a meaningful way to make a tangible impact while experiencing San Diego’s natural beauty and history.

Why Join a Volunteer Vacation?

Discover the perfect blend of service and adventure:

  • Make an Impact: Support habitat restoration, cultural preservation, and park improvement projects.
  • Learn and Grow: Gain hands-on experience in conservation techniques, historic preservation, and more.
  • Explore and Connect: Camp under the stars, meet new friends, and enjoy San Diego’s outdoor spaces.
  • Preserve History: Help protect iconic landmarks like the Butterfield Stagecoach Station at Vallecito County Park.

Upcoming Volunteer Vacations:

Save the Date: Volunteer Vacations 2026

Mark your calendars! Our next Volunteer Vacations weekend is scheduled for:

  • Friday, Dec 18. – Sunday, Dec. 20

Join us for a weekend of meaningful service, community connection, and outdoor adventure as volunteers come together to support important projects at  Vallecito County Park.

In 2026, we’ll continue restoration work at the Butterfield Stagecoach Station at Vallecito County Park. Thanks to the incredible efforts of volunteers and staff from past Volunteer Vacations, major progress has already been made and this next weekend will build on that momentum to help preserve this historic structure for future generations.

Participants will spend the weekend supporting hands-on restoration and preservation work and enjoying community connection and the beauty of the Anza-Borrego backcountry region. Camping and group meals are available as logistical support for registered participants; details about projects, schedules, and accommodations will be announced with registration.

More details about registration, projects, and accommodations will be announced soon. We hope you can join us for another unforgettable Volunteer Vacations weekend!

What’s Provided?

Thanks to the San Diego County Parks Society, volunteers will have access to camping and group meals to support participation in this remote weekend project. These supports are provided to facilitate a safe, organized volunteer experience.

  • Camping option: Stay at Agua Caliente County Park in your own tent or RV or stay at the Equestrian campsites at Vallecito County Park. Limited tent setups may be available for those without gear.
  • Meals and snacks: Food provided throughout the weekend.
  • Training and equipment: On-site training, tools, and safety gear provided.
  • Transportation: Optional shuttle service between Agua Caliente County Park and Vallecito County Park.

Who Can Join?

Sign up for a Volunteer Vacation and experience the satisfaction of giving back while enjoying San Diego’s parks in a whole new way. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!

  • Teens and adults welcome: Participants must be at least 14 years old.
  • Teens must be accompanied: Volunteers ages 14–17 must participate with a parent or guardian. Some restoration activities are limited to individuals 18+ for safety reasons.
  • No experience needed: Tasks are tailored to all skill levels, with training provided to ensure a safe and rewarding experience.
  • Camping note: Camping capacity is limited and intended for registered participants in the Volunteer Vacations weekend. If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please notify us as soon as possible so we can offer your spot to someone on the waitlist.

Ready to get up, get out, and join a Volunteer Vacation?

Sign up for a Volunteer Vacation and experience the satisfaction of giving back while enjoying San Diego’s parks in a whole new way. Space is limited, reserve your spot when registration opens.

Important: After you register, please complete the campsite reservation survey to help us coordinate camping arrangements.

Past Volunteer Vacations (Dates)

  • January 10–11, 2025
  • February 28–March 2, 2025
  • March 6–7, 2025
  • March 28–29, 2025
  • December 12–14, 2025

Participation Note

Volunteer Vacations are volunteer service opportunities and do not create an employment relationship. Scheduling and onsite guidance are used for coordination and safety.

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