Santa Cruz County Parks | Greyhound Rock & Pinto Lake

About the Opportunity

Santa Cruz County Parks is looking for enthusiastic, dependable individuals or couples interested in serving as Park Hosts. This is a unique opportunity to become part of the Parks team, contribute to the care of our public spaces, and help create welcoming experiences for park visitors.

Park Hosts live on-site at their assigned park and assist with a variety of park activities, maintenance projects, volunteer events, and visitor support. We are looking for people who enjoy the outdoors, appreciate working with the public, and are comfortable living in a more remote park setting.

We are especially interested in individuals looking for a longer-term placement who are excited to become part of the park community.

What You'll Do

Park Host responsibilities may include:

• Assisting with routine park maintenance, general upkeep, and improvement projects.
• Supporting organized volunteer events and community stewardship activities.
• Greeting visitors, answering general questions, and helping create a welcoming park environment.
• Supporting educational programming and park outreach.
• Observing park conditions and reporting maintenance needs or other concerns to Parks staff.
• Working independently while staying connected with the County Parks team.

Time Commitment

• 20 volunteer hours per week.
• Participation in at least one organized County Parks volunteer event per month, typically held on a Saturday or Sunday (approximately two to four hours).
• Flexibility to coordinate weekly hours around park needs and scheduled activities.
• Longer-term commitments are preferred.

Accommodations

Park Hosts are provided with on-site accommodations at no cost, including:

• A County-provided travel trailer, or a designated space to park their own camper.
• Sewage connection.
• Water.
• Electricity.

Accommodation arrangements, including camper options and Wi-Fi availability, can be discussed with applicants on a case-by-case basis. Wi-Fi availability may vary by park location, and alternative arrangements or additional costs may apply at more remote locations.

Who We're Looking For

Ideal candidates are individuals or couples who:

• Enjoy spending time outdoors and working in a natural setting.
• Are comfortable living in a remote or semi-remote location.
• Enjoy interacting with the public and helping park visitors.
• Communicate well, dependable, self-motivated, and able to work independently.
• Are willing to participate in routine maintenance, volunteer activities, and educational programming.
• Bring a positive attitude and an interest in supporting their local parks.

Additional Information

• Couples are welcome to apply. The 20-hour weekly commitment may be shared between both individuals.
• Pets (up to two) may be permitted on a case-by-case basis, depending on park location and circumstances.
• Selected applicants must complete the County's volunteer screening and fingerprinting requirements once offered the job.

Interested in Becoming a Park Host?

We'd love to hear from you! If you enjoy the outdoors, connecting with your community, and contributing to the care of Santa Cruz County parks, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about this opportunity.