Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County

Año Nuevo State Park is currently looking for outdoor enthusiasts to join our volunteer family! Año Nuevo is home to a large Elephant Seal rookery, and offers a remarkable wildlife experience just 20 miles north of Santa Cruz. 

Accepted applicants receive comprehensive training as docent naturalists and then lead guided walks through the natural preserve in the winter and act as “roving” naturalist interpreters the rest of the year.

Training occurs every Sunday from Sept 24th through Dec 10th. Docents are given a uniform jacket but extra uniform items are encouraged for purchase at wholesale prices.

The rest of the year, you will act as a roving naturalist and we ask approx 2 half days or 1 full day per month.

In addition to the time commitment, docents need to be able to walk approx 3-6 miles per shift in uneven terrain and over sand dunes. Docents need to be comfortable leading tours of approx. 20 people of all ages through a wildlife preserve among 2,000 lb elephant seals. Public speaking skills and a passion for the environment are encouraged.

Volunteers are invited to attend after-hour tours of the preserve for friends and family, special docent only events and enrichment classes/lectures with various specialists and scientists.



To request an application or for more information contact Christen Bechert, Docent Recruitment Coordinator at 650-879-2032 or email anovolcoordinator@parks.ca.gov