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 ALCATRAZ HISTORIC GARDENS

Volunteers working in the gardens of Alcatraz

Wednesdays & Fridays, 8:30 am–12:30 pm

The extraordinary gardens of Alcatraz reflect a rich history of horticulture and gardening ideas spanning many different eras, including floriferous Victorian cottage gardens, terraced cutting beds, and environmentally sensitive attempts at erosion control. Since 2003, garden volunteer crews have been working each week to re-establish the historic gardens.

Volunteer activities include weeding, pruning, and planting. Through the project, volunteers will be introduced to the stories of the gardens and have the opportunity to visit some areas not accessible to the public. As an added bonus, garden volunteers arrive on Alcatraz before other visitors, so you can experience the island during the most tranquil time of day.

Individuals 

This is is not a drop-in program. An application is required, as well as a commitment to volunteering on a weekly or bi-weekly basis for 2–3 months.

Groups 

Groups of five or more may require special arrangements. Fill out the Group Project Request Form or contact us for more information. Group projects must be confirmed in advance.

Visit our Group Volunteers page for more details and to learn about activity types and project locations.

Contact Information 

(415) 561-3044 or volunteer@parksconservancy.org.

Age/Skills/What to Bring 

  • Volunteers ages 18 and up are welcome.
  • No experience necessary. Training, tools, and transportation to and from Alcatraz will be provided.
  • Bring the appropriate waiver forms (see below).
  • Please wear clothes that can get dirty, long pants, closed-toe shoes, layers for changing weather, and rain gear if necessary. Also, bring a personal water bottle and sunscreen.

Waiver Forms  (Please bring the completed forms to the project).

Docent Opportunities 

Alcatraz Gardens Docent: Docents lead visitors through the gardens for up to an hour and/or engage visitors at a designated stop in the garden. Docents complete a training course and lead tours at least twice a month. If you are interested in becoming an Alcatraz Gardens docent, please fill out an application.

To learn more about the historic gardens, visit www.alcatrazgardens.org; download “The Gardens of Alcatraz”, the Garden Conservancy’s prospectus; or click here to view historical and current photos of the Alcatraz Gardens.


The Golden Gate National Parks Volunteer Program is a cooperative parkwide effort of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, the National Park Service, and the Presidio Trust.  

 

Landscapes & Historic Sites

Resources

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