Community Volunteer Positions
Community Volunteers are an integral component of our operations. These individuals live at their own residence in the Phoenix metro area (year-round or seasonal) and are seeking a regular, reoccurring role within the Park system. Community Volunteers can work at one park or choose to assist at different parks. Community volunteer positions are generally on a set schedule with regular duties. This commitment will be agreed on as part of the application and placement process.
To learn more about community volunteer opportunities with our system, we invite you to contact the Volunteer Coordinator to schedule a telephonic volunteer orientation; parkvolunteer@maricopa.gov or (602) 506-9500.
Park Hosting Positions
Unlike community volunteers that live in the areas surrounding a park, Park Hosts reside in their own RV within the park. In exchange for a designated RV host site, the host couple agrees to work a minimum of 40-hours per week. Single hosts agree to work 30-hours per week. Each host site is provided with free utilities (water, sewer, electricity) and laundry facilities are available in most or our parks. Please note, Park Host couples will be required to have an individual email address for each person that serves as a volunteer.
Host positions are highly competitive and our preference will be given to applicants who meet the following service timeframes:
- Fall/Winter Season –Mid-October to the end of April.
- Summer/Off-season – Early March to late September/mid October.
- Year-Round – Park Host resides at the park and volunteers year-round.
To apply for a Park Host position, please submit your application: Volunteer Application Form
RETURNING PARK HOSTS – DO NOT SUBMIT A NEW APPLICATION. Please CLICK HERE for additional information.
FALL/WINTER PARK HOST OPPORTUNITIES:
The Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department has Park Host openings at the following parks for the upcoming fall/winter season:
- Estrella Mountain Regional Park,
- Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant
- Hassayampa River Preserve,
- San Tan Mountain Regional Park,
- Usery Mountain Regional Park,
- White Tank Mountain Regional Park
A five-month commitment is required from our Park Hosts, and all hosts are required to pass a criminal background check and driving history check. Park Hosts must complete a training program prior to starting their volunteer duties. Children under the age of 16 are not authorized to reside in the parks as part of the Park Host program. Volunteers must have their own RV or camper that is in good working order.
If you have any questions about the specific duties and requirements for our Park Hosts, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at parkvolunteer@maricopa.gov.
Aug
15
Morning Meander
Enjoy an early morning walk to watch for birds, lizards, snakes, and small animals with Ranger Olivia. Click on program title for more details.
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Aug
15
Al the Tortoises Birthday SHELLebration!
Have you ever been to a birthday party for a tortoise? Join us in shell-ebrating the 29th birthday of Al, our captive tortoise, here at Usery! Click on program title for more details.
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Aug
15
Discovery Station: Venomous Creatures
The desert seems full of scary, venomous creatures, especially this time of year! Ranger Jacque’s here to talk about the real lives of rattlesnakes, Gila monsters, scorpions, and other desert dwellers you may encounter. Click program title for more details.
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Aug
15
Desert 101 Hike (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
Hike with Ranger Jacque through winding trails while watching the sun set over the Sonoran Desert!
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Aug
15
Creatures of the Night (Registration Required, Limit 10 Participants)
Think you’re brave? The Desert would like a word. After dark. Ranger Shaun is here to show you to your appointment. Click program title for more details.
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Aug
16
Arizona Boater Education Course
Learn the basics of boater safety and laws during this classroom course. Click on program title for more details.
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Aug
17
Lake Pleasant Monday Clean-Up Crew
Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline.
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Aug
19
Goldmine Fitness Hike (Registration Required, Limit 15 Participants)
***This program has been cancelled due to an extreme heat warning being issued by the National Weather Service***
Join Ranger Olivia on this difficult morning hike up the Goldmine trail. Click program title for more details.
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Aug
19
Discovery Station Desert 101
Come on down to the Nature Center to learn more about the fascinating world around you—the Sonoran Desert. Ranger Jacque will be ready to answer your burning questions.
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