Community Volunteer Openings

We are seeking passionate individuals to join our team as Hiking Trail Maintenance Volunteers. 

As a volunteer, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, accessibility, and sustainability of our hiking trails. This position offers a unique opportunity to give back to the community, connect with nature, and contribute to preserving natural spaces for current and future outdoor enthusiasts. 

• Trail Inspection: Conduct regular inspections of hiking trails to identify and address any maintenance needs, including trail erosion, fallen debris, damaged signage, and potential safety hazards. 
• Trail Clearing: Clear overgrown vegetation, fallen branches, and debris from hiking trails to maintain safe passage for hikers. Use appropriate tools such as loppers, hand saws, and trail-clearing equipment to ensure trails are clear and accessible. 
• Erosion Control: Implement erosion control measures such as building water bars, constructing retaining walls, and installing drainage features to mitigate erosion and preserve the integrity of hiking trails. 
• Trail Blazing: Help maintain trail markers, blazes, and signage to ensure hikers can easily navigate trails and stay on designated routes. Establish new trail segments or reroute existing trails as needed. 
• Bridge and Boardwalk Maintenance: Inspect and maintain bridges, boardwalks, and other structures along hiking trails to ensure they are structurally sound and safe for use. Make minor repairs or adjustments as necessary. 
• Trailhead Beautification: Help maintain the cleanliness and appearance of trailheads and parking areas by picking up litter, emptying trash receptacles, and performing basic landscaping tasks such as weeding and mulching. 
• Trail Stewardship: Engage with hikers and visitors to promote responsible trail use and environmental stewardship. Educate trail users about Leave No Trace principles and proper hiking etiquette to minimize impact on natural resources. 
• Reporting and Documentation: Document trail conditions, maintenance activities, and any notable observations or incidents encountered during trail patrols. Report findings to trail management staff and assist in prioritizing maintenance needs. 

Qualifications: 

• Passion for hiking, outdoor recreation, and environmental conservation. 
• Physical fitness and stamina to perform trail maintenance tasks in varying weather conditions and rugged terrain. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, following instructions and safety protocols. 
• Willingness to learn and use trail maintenance tools and techniques safely and effectively. 
• Availability to commit to regular volunteer shifts, which may include weekends or weekdays, depending on trail needs. 

Benefits: 

• Opportunity to make a positive impact on local hiking trails and natural areas. 
• Access to beautiful outdoor spaces and the satisfaction of contributing to their preservation. 
• Networking opportunities with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, trail users, and conservation organizations. 
• Valuable experience in trail maintenance, environmental stewardship, and outdoor leadership. 
• Recognition and appreciation from trail users, park staff, and the broader community.

How to Apply: Interested volunteers should complete the Volunteer Application Form and submit it to sarah.caylor@wfp.ms.gov. For more information, contact [Sarah Caylor] at (601) 432- 2228

Join us in creating unforgettable experiences and promoting the beauty of our state parks. Your contribution makes a difference!

We are seeking dedicated individuals to join our team as Disc Golf Course Maintenance Volunteers.

 As a volunteer, you will play a vital role in ensuring that our disc golf course remains safe, enjoyable, and visually appealing for players of all skill levels. This role offers a fantastic opportunity for disc golf enthusiasts to give back to the community and contribute to the upkeep of a popular outdoor recreational facility. 

• Course Inspection: Conduct regular inspections of the disc golf course to identify any areas in need of maintenance or repair. This includes checking tee pads, baskets, signage, and fairways for damage or hazards. 
• Trash Removal: Help maintain the course's cleanliness by collecting litter and debris from the fairways, woods, and surrounding areas. Dispose of trash in designated bins or recycling receptacles. 
• Weed Control: Help control weed growth along fairways, around tee pads, and near baskets. This may involve manual weeding, the use of environmentally friendly herbicides, or other approved methods. 
• Brush Clearing: Clear overgrown vegetation, brush, and fallen branches to keep fairways and pathways clear and accessible for players. Ensure that sightlines are maintained for safety and enjoyment. 
• Erosion Control: Repair eroded areas, reinforce slopes, and install erosion control measures as needed to help prevent soil erosion and maintain the integrity of the course layout. .  
• Course Beautification: Participate in efforts to enhance the course's aesthetic appeal by planting native vegetation, installing landscaping features, and maintaining flower beds or natural areas. 
• Equipment Maintenance: Assist in maintaining and repairing course equipment, including baskets, tee signs, benches, and trash receptacles. Report any equipment issues or safety concerns to the appropriate personnel. 
• Community Engagement: Engage with players and visitors to promote responsible disc golf etiquette and environmental stewardship. Serve as a friendly and knowledgeable resource for questions about the course and the sport. 

These tasks may incorporate the use of tools including, but not limited to: wheelbarrows, brooms, trowels, shovels, rakes, pruning shears, gardening hand tools, hand picks, pitchforks, hand saws, pickaxes, Mcleods, hoes, and hand tools (manual)

Qualifications: 

• Passion for disc golf and a desire to contribute to the upkeep of the course. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in an outdoor environment. 
• Physical fitness and stamina to perform tasks such as lifting, bending, and walking on uneven terrain. 
• Willingness to adhere to safety protocols and follow instructions from course management. 
• Availability to commit to regular volunteer shifts, which may include weekends or evenings. 

Benefits: 

• Opportunity to make a positive impact on the local disc golf community and outdoor recreation scene. 
• Access to the course during non-peak hours for personal play and practice. 
• Recognition and appreciation from fellow players, course staff, and the broader community. 
• Valuable experience in landscaping, facility maintenance, and volunteer coordination. 
• Networking opportunities with other disc golf enthusiasts and community organizations.  

How to Apply: Interested volunteers should complete the Volunteer Application Form and submit it to sarah.caylor@wfp.ms.gov. For more information, contact Sarah Caylor at (601) 432- 2228

Join us in creating unforgettable experiences and promoting the beauty of our state parks. Your contribution makes a difference!

We are seeking dedicated individuals to join our team as Event Support and Clean-Up Crew Volunteers. 

This role is vital in ensuring the smooth execution of various events held throughout our beautiful state parks. Volunteers will assist with a range of tasks to help create memorable experiences for our visitors. Register to volunteer and help bring an event to life! Assist with educational events, holiday activities, and outdoor programs, while enjoying the ambiance of the setting. Volunteers at live events are incredibly valuable! Great volunteers help set a positive tone and create an energetic environment for the event. 

Each park manages its host calendar; most rely on volunteers throughout the year. Event Support and Clean Up Volunteers are required to register online to help us anticipate our staffing needs.  

• Event Setup and Breakdown: Assist with setting up tents, tables, chairs, signage, and decorations before the event. Help with tearing down and packing up equipment after the event.
• Registration and Check-In: Greet attendees, manage registration tables, check in participants, and provide event materials and information.
• Crowd Management: Guide visitors to event locations, provide directions, and ensure crowd control for a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Activity Assistance: Support various event activities such as games, crafts, workshops, and demonstrations. Engage with participants and encourage their involvement.
• Hospitality Services: Distribute water, snacks, and other refreshments to attendees. Assist with maintaining cleanliness and order in food and beverage areas.
• Information Distribution: Hand out brochures, maps, and schedules. Answer general questions about the event and the park.
• Safety and Emergency Assistance: Monitor the event area for safety concerns and report any issues to park staff. If needed, assist with basic first aid.

Requirements 

• Be over 18 years of age. 
• Must be able to lift at least 20 pounds. 
• Be comfortable talking to people.  
• Typically, this position also requires standing for long periods, carrying, and walking for long periods.  

Qualifications:

• Passion for the outdoors and a love for state parks.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work well in a team and with diverse groups of people.
• Dependability and punctuality.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and perform light lifting (up to 25 lbs).
• Willingness to adhere to park policies and procedures.

Benefits: This is an excellent opportunity for those seeking to improve employee team building at no cost to your group! Take a mental break from the office setting and find your colleagues outdoors. It’s also great for those who like to work with their hands and want to spend more time outside. 

• Gain experience in event planning and customer service.
• Enjoy the natural beauty of Mississippi State Parks.
• Meet new people and be part of a community-focused team.
• Receive a volunteer t-shirt and refreshments during the event.
• Earn volunteer service hours for school or community service requirements.

We are seeking dedicated individuals to join our team as Photography and Videography Volunteers!

Are you passionate about capturing the beauty of the great outdoors? Do you have a knack for storytelling through visuals? Join us as a Volunteer Photographer/Videographer at Mississippi State Parks!

In this role, you'll have the opportunity to showcase the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant activities that make our parks unique. Whether you're snapping breathtaking sunsets, filming thrilling hiking adventures, or documenting community events, your creativity and talent will play a vital role in promoting our parks and inspiring others to explore the wonders of nature. 

We need volunteer photographers/videographers to help us keep our online content up to date! We seek novice and experienced photographers to take photos of our cabins, RV Sites, facilities, and amenities. When availability allows, we also need volunteer photographers to help capture the moment at various events, such as car shows, weekend music festivals, summer camps, and after-school care programs. As a Volunteer Photographer/Videographer, you'll collaborate with park staff and fellow volunteers to capture unforgettable moments and share them with the world. 

Responsibilities:

• Event Coverage: Photograph and/or video record various park events, including festivals, educational programs, workshops, and recreational activities.
• Landscape and Wildlife Photography: Capture stunning images of the park’s natural landscapes, flora, and fauna to showcase the beauty of Mississippi’s state parks.
• Candid Shots: Take candid photos and videos of visitors enjoying the park to use in promotional materials and on social media.
• Editing and Post-Production: Edit photos and videos to ensure high quality. Provide finished digital files to park staff for use in marketing and communication efforts.
• Content Organization: Organize and catalog digital media files for easy access and future use by park staff.
• Collaboration: Work closely with park staff to understand the vision and requirements for each project, ensuring alignment with the park’s branding and messaging.

Qualifications:

• Photography/Videography Skills: Proficiency in using cameras, video equipment, and editing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro).
• Creativity: A strong creative eye for capturing compelling images and video footage.
• Passion for the Outdoors: A love for nature and the ability to work in various outdoor conditions.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to interact positively with park visitors and staff.
• Reliability: Dependable and punctual, with a commitment to delivering high-quality work.
• Portfolio: A portfolio of previous photography and/or videography work is required.

Benefits:

• Showcase Your Work: Have your photos and videos featured in park publications, on social media, and in marketing campaigns.
• Skill Development: Gain experience in outdoor photography/videography and build your professional portfolio.
• Community Engagement: Contribute to the promotion and preservation of Mississippi’s natural heritage.
• Park Access: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Mississippi State Parks during your volunteer assignments.
• Recognition: Receive credit for your work and acknowledgment as a valued member of the volunteer team.