Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 06, 2025
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov
Virginia State Parks launches Ranger Conservation Corps to build future conservation leaders
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Virginia State Parks Intern)
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Ranger Conservation Corps)
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Virginia State Parks Ranger)
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Virginia State Parks Ranger)
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Virginia State Parks Intern)
RICHMOND, Va. - The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and Virginia State Parks are proud to announce the launch of the Ranger Conservation Corps, a new internship program designed to create career pathways in outdoor recreation and conservation while strengthening park operations across the commonwealth.
By combining elements of past successful programs, the Virginia Service and Conservation Corps and the Park Ranger Career Development Program, RCC provides hands-on, immersive training for interns in a wide range of park operations, offering multiple career track options.
“This program is an investment in the future of Virginia State Parks and in the people who will carry forward our commitment to conservation, recreation and education,” said Virginia State Parks Director Dr. Melissa Baker. “Ranger Conservation Corps will prepare the next generation of leaders while positively benefiting our parks and visitors.”
College students, recent graduates, young professionals and others seeking hands-on experience in conservation, recreation, education and park management are encouraged to apply.
The application period for the 2026 cohort will run from Dec. 15, 2025, through Jan. 9, 2026. There are multiple opportunities available, but space is limited, and selections are made through a competitive process.
Selected interns will begin service in summer 2026, working an average of 35 to 40 hours per week. Program length varies by track, ranging from 12 weeks initially to 9 months for future opportunities.
Program highlights
Building on past success
Virginia State Parks has a strong history of career development through its service programs. Since 2012, the VSCC and PRCD programs have prepared dozens of interns and service members for full-time careers in conservation.
RCC is excited to introduce a dynamic new approach that melds successful models to create a flexible framework, benefiting not only the interns but the commonwealth as a whole. This innovative structure promises to enhance the experience for everyone involved.
For more information about RCC, please go to https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/ranger-conservation-corps or contact Program Manager Jessica German at RangerConservationCorps@DCR.Virginia.gov.
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Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.
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