Naturalist Intern Near Yosemite National Park
Camp Green Meadows Outdoor School - Merced County Office of Education
Merced, California
| Job Type | Paid Internship |
| Salary | $16.90 per hour |
| Min. Experience | 0 - 1 year |
Teach 6th Grade Outdoor Science Camp in the Sierra Nevada
Live and Work Near Yosemite National Park
Spend your season inspiring students while living and working in the Sierra Nevada just minutes from Yosemite National Park.
Camp Green Meadows Outdoor School is seeking enthusiastic Naturalist Interns to join our residential outdoor education team in Fish Camp, California, located just two miles from the southern entrance to Yosemite National Park.
For over 60 years, our program has helped students connect with the natural world through hands-on science, exploration, and outdoor adventure. As a Naturalist Intern, you will guide students through forest trails, creek ecosystems, and mountain meadows while helping them discover the wonder of nature.
If you love working with kids, hiking in the mountains, and sharing your passion for the outdoors, this internship offers an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful landscapes in North America.
What You'll Do
- Lead small groups of students on hikes in the forest
- Teach lessons on ecology, forests, watersheds, and wildlife
- Facilitate hands-on experiential science activities
- Support visiting teachers and high school cabin leader
- Assist with evening programs and community activities
- Help create a safe, engaging residential camp environment experience
- Participate in on-call emergency response coverage as part of the residential staff team
The Outdoor Classroom
Camp Green Meadows Outdoor School sits at 5,000 feet elevation in the Sierra Nevada and is surrounded by incredible natural landscapes in the Sierra National Forest.
Our campus includes:
- Big Creek running through the campus
- Mountain meadow ecosystems
- Access to over one million acres of Sierra National Forest
- Close proximity to Yosemite National Park
From giant sequoias and granite peaks to snowy winter landscapes and warm fall afternoons, every season offers something new to explore.
Who This Is Perfect For
This internship is ideal for people who:
- Love working with children
- Enjoy teaching and learning outdoors
- Are passionate about nature and environmental education
- Like hiking and spending days outside
- Are adaptable, enthusiastic, and team-oriented
Many Naturalist Interns have backgrounds in environmental studies, ecology, biology, education, recreation, or outdoor leadership, but curiosity and enthusiasm for the outdoors are most important.
What You’ll Gain
- Hands-on experience teaching science outdoors
- Professional mentorship from experienced outdoor educators
- Leadership experience working with youth
- Opportunity to live and work in the Yosemite region of the Sierra Nevada
Many former Naturalists go on to careers in environmental education, park interpretation, outdoor leadership, and teaching.
Compensation & Housing
- Besides your pay, room and board, plus meals provided during program sessions
- Residential staff community
- Access to incredible recreation in the Yosemite region including hiking, climbing, skiing, and exploring the Sierra Nevada
| Category | Environmental Education , Outdoor Recreation |
| Tags | Naturalist |