California State Parks Hosting Spring Volunteer Training

Two-day orientation offers opportunities to support historic parks in Western Nevada County

Mar. 11, 2026 at 8:06am

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California State Parks is hosting a two-day volunteer training program from April 24 to May 2 for individuals interested in supporting Empire Mine State Historic Park, South Yuba River State Park, and Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park. The training will cover a variety of volunteer activities, including public speaking, hands-on work, and special events.

Why it matters

Volunteer programs at California's state parks help maintain and promote these important historic and natural sites, which are vital to the local community and attract visitors from around the world. The training program aims to engage residents in supporting the parks through a range of engaging volunteer opportunities.

The details

The volunteer training will take place over two sessions, with participants only needing to attend one day per session. The orientation will cover opportunities such as serving as Trail Rovers, working in park gift shops, leading school tours, demonstrating blacksmithing, maintaining landscaping, and assisting with special events. Participants can choose to volunteer at one or more of the three parks based on their interests.

  • The volunteer training will take place on Fridays and Saturdays from April 24 to May 2, 2026.
  • The orientation sessions will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

The players

California State Parks

The California state agency responsible for managing and preserving the state's network of parks, historic sites, and natural areas.

Jean Rhyne

The Sierra Gold Sector Volunteer Coordinator for California State Parks, who is overseeing the volunteer training program.

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What they’re saying

“RSVP is required. Applicants may sign up by contacting Sierra Gold Sector Volunteer Coordinator Jean Rhyne at (530) 686-7110 or Jean.Rhyne@parks.ca.gov.”

— Jean Rhyne, Sierra Gold Sector Volunteer Coordinator

What’s next

Interested volunteers must RSVP for the training by contacting Jean Rhyne, the Sierra Gold Sector Volunteer Coordinator, at the provided phone number or email address.

The takeaway

This volunteer training program offers a valuable opportunity for residents of Western Nevada County to get involved in supporting and preserving the region's important state parks, which serve as both historic sites and natural recreational areas for the local community and visitors.