Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is proud to announce that Virginia State Parks has been named a 2026 Top Virginia Employer for Interns by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.
This recognition celebrates organizations that demonstrate excellence in mentorship, professional development, workplace culture and opportunities for students to make real contributions. Each year, Virginia State Parks hosts interns from colleges and universities and service members across Virginia.
Virginia State Parks was recognized for its commitment to offering hands-on experiences through a variety of internship pathways, including its new Ranger Conservation Corps and participation in the Department of Defense SkillBridge program for transitioning service members.
Keep reading to learn more about these initiatives and how you can become part of the next generation of conservation leaders.
Virginia State Parks intern at Natural Bridge State Park
Launched in 2025, the Ranger Conservation Corps was created to give students 18 years or older a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a state park. RCC participants get hands-on experience in areas like:
RCC interns play a pivotal role in championing the mission, culture and core values of DCR and Virginia State Parks, all while contributing to the preservation of natural beauty and promoting outdoor recreation.
Participants will leave the program with a clearer sense of direction, new skills and in some cases, a foot in the door for future seasonal or full-time roles.
Virginia State Parks is also a partner in the SkillBridge program, which helps service members shift into civilian careers in their final months of active duty.
Through SkillBridge, participants step directly into roles that involve:
Participants discover new career paths rooted in public service and natural resource stewardship, and the practical experience they gain often translates into immediate employment, sometimes within Virginia State Parks.
Whether you’re a student, a service member preparing for your next chapter or someone exploring a career in conservation, Virginia State Parks offers a welcoming place to learn, grow and make a difference.
If you’re interested in applying for the 2027 cohort of Ranger Conservation Corps, please go to https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/ranger-conservation-corps.
To learn more about SkillBridge, please visit https://skillbridge.osd.mil/index.htm.
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