Friends of the Central Cascades Wilderness offers volunteer opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Trail restoration and stewardship work can earn you a wilderness permit while giving back.
Volunteer with Friends of the Central Cascades Wilderness
Are you looking for a way to combine your love for outdoor adventure with meaningful action? Friends of the Central Cascades Wilderness (FCCW) offers the perfect opportunity to backpack through stunning Wilderness areas while giving back to the National Forests that make these experiences possible.
Our volunteer-driven organization is dedicated to preserving the Wilderness character of the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests. From restoring campsites and maintaining trails to educating visitors and installing critical signage, we're on the front lines of stewardship.
Why Volunteer with FCCW?
Volunteering with FCCW is more than just trail work; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Central Oregon while making a tangible impact.
You'll have the chance to visit some of the most pristine and limited-access areas within the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests, experiencing these wild spaces in a deeper, more meaningful way.
Your hard work doesn't go unnoticed. Volunteers earn exciting perks based on their hours of service.
- 16 Hours: A Northwest Forest Pass, good for parking at Forest Service trailheads in Oregon and Washington
- 40 Hours: A Central Cascades Wilderness Permit, granting you and a guest unlimited access to all limited-access trails in the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests
- 250 Hours: An America the Beautiful Pass, offering free entry to all federally managed lands, including National Parks, Forests, and BLM areas
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FCCW hosts both day trips and overnight backpacking opportunities for volunteers. These trips are an amazing way to connect with other outdoor enthusiasts, learn more about stewardship, and contribute to essential conservation efforts.
Volunteer Information Night is usually held in April at 6:00 PM at the Deschutes Public Library, Downtown Bend, Brooks Room. Come meet the team, learn more about the mission, and discover how you can get involved!
Why We Need You and How to Get Started
With recent cuts to seasonal staff across National Forests, the need for dedicated volunteers has never been greater. FCCW plays a crucial role in maintaining access to Wilderness areas and protecting their delicate ecosystems. Without volunteers, tasks like campsite restoration, trail maintenance, and visitor education would fall by the wayside.
By joining FCCW, you're not only helping protect these beloved spaces but also ensuring they remain accessible for generations to come.
Ready to join? Register on Cascade Volunteers at cascadevolunteers.org and complete the registration form. Then submit your volunteer form via email at FCCWilderness@gmail.com.
There's no better time to give back to the outdoors you love. Whether you're an experienced backpacker or a newcomer eager to learn, FCCW has a place for you.
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