Volunteering when traveling (or even at home) is a great way to get outside and give back to the local community. Here are a couple of incredible organizations that we have found with outdoor volunteer opportunities.

US Based Organizations

• Surfrider – An organization that is devoted to coastal clean ups & protection.

• National Park Service – With this program you can volunteer at national parks throughout the US.

• The Nature Conservancy – A great organization with outdoor volunteer opportunities in most states.

• Keep America Beautiful – This group has multiple programs that include recycling, trash cleanups, and tree planting.

• One Tree Planted – US based company that partners with businesses and individuals to plant trees and restore forests around the world.

State Specific – Colorado

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado

This organization hosts outdoor opportunities all around Colorado. They have community gardening, ecological restoration, trail maintenance and also weekend camping projects. We’ve volunteered with them several times and had an absolute blast on the overnight projects!

Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers

The Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers is located in the Roaring Fork Valley, which is from Glenwood Springs to Aspen. They host trail work projects throughout the summer and fall and even have several multi day options.

Patagonia Denver

While not necessarily a nonprofit organization, the Patagonia in Denver hosts monthly South Platte River trash cleanups.

Colorado Fourteeners Initiative

The Colorado 14ers Initiative builds and maintains trails on Colorado’s iconic 14,000 foot peaks (there are 58 in the state!) They have multiple opportunities throughout the summer – from trail restoration to hiker education.

Idaho

Idaho Rivers United

This Boise based organization hosts river clean ups, brewery fundraising events, and other opportunities throughout the year.

Idaho Trails Association

The Idaho Trails Association promotes the conservation and enjoyment of Idaho’s backcountry on foot. During the summer, they have many trailwork projects that allow you to get involved!

Oregon

Trailkeepers of Oregon

The Trailkeepers of Oregon has projects located throughout the state of Oregon. They mainly do trailwork restoration but have special opportunities for families and women only events as well.