Youth Conservation Corps (Virginia State Parks)

Summer program · Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation

Virginia State Parks' Youth Conservation Corps Crew Member program puts crews of Virginia teens entering their freshman (9th grade) year to work on real trail, habitat, and facilities projects for two-week residential sessions each summer. Crew members live on-site, work alongside park staff, and earn a $750 stipend on completion, plus community-service-hour credit matching hours worked. Applicants must be at least 14 by June 1 and submit two professional or academic references as part of a competitive application; finalists complete a group interview. (Virginia State Parks runs a separate Crew Leader track for older/returning youth.)

Who can apply

GradesFreshmen only

Min GPA—

ScopeState

StatesVA

FieldsEnvironmental Science · Conservation

Logistics

Cost to youFree; $750 completion stipend

Financial aidNot listed

StipendPaid

FormatResidential

Length2 weeks, residential (2027: Jun 20-Jul 3, Jul 11-24)

WhereVirginia state parks

Applying

OpensJanuary 1

DueDue March 19, 2027, 5 p.m.

You submitMust be entering 9th grade (first year of high school) and at least 14 by June 1; two professional or academic references required; finalists complete a group interview.

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