The purpose of the Volunteers in Parks Program (VIPP) is to provide for organized and effective use of volunteers, including recognition of their contributions to state parks.

The State Department of Parks and Recreation acknowledges the dedicated and untiring efforts of its volunteers, and expresses its immense appreciation for their support and contributions to making state parks a more enjoyable experience for all who visit.

How Can You Volunteer?

There are many great ways to be involved at the Park.   Perhaps one of these will be of interest to you.
 
Docents
 
     First, Mt. Diablo State Park is currently recruiting new volunteers to serve as Park Docents.  Based on what interests you, Park Docents staff the Mitchell Canyon Visitors Center, hike the trails as roving docents, or work at the Summit Visitors Center.  Docents provide information, directions and sell merchandise on behalf of the Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association.  Docents typically work one 3 or 4 hour shift per month based on your availability.  All docents receive appropriate training.  Contact Steve Elliott at 925-362-8697 or at SAE612@msn.com for more information or to signup as a docent.
 
Back Country Patrol
 
     Volunteers hike, mountain bike or ride horseback on the trails of the Park.  These volunteers help interpret the Park, provide general information, note maintenance needs and assist with visitor emergencies.  Training is required.   You schedule your own hours for this one.
If you are interested in this volunteering opportunity, please contact Ranger Carl Nielson at 925-837-6129 or via email at cnielson@parks.ca.gov.
 
Trail Crew
 
     Volunteers perform trail repair, maintenance and construction the second Saturday of each month.  On the job training is provided.   Contact Jeff Beach at 925-837-6122 or jbeach@parks.ca.gov.
 
Trash Removal Project
 
     This group of volunteers works several days per month on removing things like old fencing and other discarded materials from the Park.  Contact Burt Bogardus at 925-820-2347 or burt.bogardus@sbcglobal.net.
 
Other Opportunities
 
     Volunteers are needed for other areas at Mt. Diablo State Park.   For example,  volunteers can assist with administrative functions in the office.  If you are interested in helping out in the office or are just curious about volunteering opportunities in general, contact Ranger Carl Nielson at 925-837-6129 or via email at cnielson@parks.ca.gov.

     Volunteers also help with tasks like removing exotic plants and replanting native species.  There is currently a new native plants interpretive garden under development at the Visitors Center in Mitchell Canyon.  If something like this in of interest, contact Jeff Beach at 925-837-6122 or jbeach@parks.ca.gov and he can connect you with a project.

Also see MDIA Volunteer Opportunities