About this Event
Come work alongside Rocky Mountain National Park vegetation staff as we plant tree saplings to enhance Glacier Basin Campground. These new saplings will help diversify the campground’s existing tree stands and over time will improve campsite shade and privacy. We will plant a variety of native tree species including limber pine (Pinus flexilis), Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), and blue spruce (Picea pungens).
What to Expect:
This project will involve planting tree saplings within a montane site (8000 ft elevation) in exposed conditions (full sun, rain, wind). Planting will involve kneeling, stooping, bending over, and use of small hand tools and shovels. Trees range in size from 1-gallon to 5-gallon containers. Lifting and moving tree saplings weighing up to 30 lbs in 5-gallon planting containers will be required.
Water coolers will be available onsite for refills. Restrooms will be available near the worksite. Be prepared for variable weather conditions (sun, wind, heat, cold, light rain).
Minimum age: 18 years
Date (weather permitting): Thursday, October 8, 2026
Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm
Departure and return location: Please meet in the outdoor plaza in front of the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. From there, we will carpool into the park.
Work site: Glacier Basin Campground
Nearest bathroom: Glacier Basin Campground comfort stations (flush toilets)
What’s provided: Work gloves, sunscreen, kneeling pads, drinking water, tools, training.
Gear to bring: Layers (it can be hot or snowy, even on the same day), rain gear, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), gloves (if you prefer your own), day pack, lunch and snacks, water.
Questions? Please reach out to the park volunteer office at [email protected] or call 970-586-1330.
All photos: NPS
Above: NPS staff hold confier saplings.
Below: NPS staff and volunteers prepare to plant trees outdoors.
Event venue & nearby stays
Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, 1000 U.S. 36, Estes Park, United States
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