If you’re planning a visit to any of America’s public lands, check out our Insider’s Guide to Recreation.gov. In the meantime, here are a few permits, reservations and events to look out for this month.
Golden Gate National Recreation Area: Historic Landscaping and Maintenance
Join the fun and help preserve and protect your national park! Maintenance volunteers help protect and beautify the historic landscapes and cultural resources throughout National Park Service managed lands in San Francisco County. Projects include trail maintenance, vegetation removal, native planting, beach clean-up, sand removal, and graffiti abatement.
When: Every Thursday, 9:00 AM to Noon
Where: Rotating Sites:
- 1st Thursday: Crissy Field, West Bluff
- 2nd Thursday: Lands End
- 3rd Thursday: Crissy Field, East Beach
- 4th Thursday: Baker Beach
- 5th Thursdays (when applicable): Ocean Beach
The Golden Gate National Parks Volunteer Program is a cooperative parkwide effort of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, the National Park Service, and the Presidio Trust.
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site Tours
The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington DC, preserves the home and legacy of Frederick Douglass, a former enslaved person who became a leading abolitionist, civil rights advocate, author, and statesman.
The site spans 8.5 acres at Cedar Hill, where the main house, gardens, and an impressive collection of Douglass’ personal belongings offer a glimpse into his life and that of his family.
Douglass moved to Cedar Hill in 1877, where he spent 18 years. During this time, he served as U.S. Minister to Haiti and U.S. Marshal for the District of Columbia, while continuing to write and speak on human rights and equality until his passing on February 20, 1895.
A favorite attraction for many visitors is the reconstructed “Growlery,” a small building with a stove, bed, and desk, where Douglass could retreat to work or reflect in solitude. Another highlight is the Douglass Library Collection, which includes books, pamphlets, rare photograph albums, and two bound volumes of The North Star, the abolitionist newspaper he founded. Many items bear Douglass’ signature or personal bookplate.
Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail: Lewis & Clark Expo
The inaugural Lewis and Clark Expo, hosted by the National Park Service’s Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, will be held in Omaha, Nebraska, the first weekend of October. This exciting event will feature a variety of organizations and activities, including a unique opportunity to see a full-scale replica of the Lewis and Clark expedition’s keelboat.
The Lewis & Clark Discovery Expedition of Saint Charles, Missouri, will be bringing their authentic replica keelboat and a team of dedicated re-enactors to the Omaha Riverfront. Based on Captain William Clark’s drawings and featured in numerous films and documentaries, this historic vessel offers a glimpse into the explorers’ journey.
Through living history demonstrations, the re-enactors will share the experiences of the expedition, including their clothing, sleeping arrangements, cooking methods, and more. This educational and entertaining event is perfect for families and history enthusiasts of all ages.
Enjoy exhibits, demonstrations, and entertainment from a variety of organizations, including the National Park Service.
National Park Service: Seasonal Ranger Positions
Interested in becoming a park ranger? Did you ever dream about wearing that cool uniform and hat? Summer 2025 seasonal ranger positions will begin being posted in October at USAjobs.gov.
Seasonal ranger positions with the National Park Service offer opportunities to work in visitor services, law enforcement, and resource management during peak seasons. Duties include leading interpretive programs, ensuring park safety, and assisting with wildlife conservation and maintenance. These temporary jobs, typically lasting 3-6 months, provide valuable experience in some of the most iconic parks, and often serve as a pathway to permanent positions.
Seasonal rangers play a vital role in connecting visitors with the natural and cultural significance of national parks. They may lead guided hikes and educational talks, or assist with trail maintenance and wildlife conservation. Positions vary depending on park needs, and locations range from iconic destinations like Yellowstone to smaller, lesser-known parks. These jobs are ideal for individuals with backgrounds in environmental science, history, or outdoor recreation, providing a chance to immerse oneself in nature while contributing to park stewardship.
Be sure to keep a lookout on USAjobs.gov or turn on notifications for parks/locations you’re interested in. And in case you missed it, the Instagram post (at right) from Theodore Roosevelt National Park is from NPS Fashion Week and has nearly two million views.
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Top photo of Golden Gate National Recreation Area by Kseniajoyg/Freepik
