Are you looking for a way to combine your love for outdoor adventure with meaningful action? Friends of the Central Cascades Wilderness (FCCW) offers the perfect opportunity to backpack through stunning Wilderness areas while giving back to the National Forests that make these experiences possible.
Our volunteer-driven organization is dedicated to preserving the Wilderness character of the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests. From restoring campsites and maintaining trails to educating visitors and installing critical signage, we’re on the front lines of stewardship—and we’d love for you to join us.
Why Volunteer with FCCW?
Volunteering with FCCW is more than just trail work; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Central Oregon while making a tangible impact. Here’s why you should consider becoming part of our team:
- Explore the Wilderness
You’ll have the chance to visit some of the most pristine and limited-access areas within the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests, experiencing these wild spaces in a deeper, more meaningful way. - Earn Rewards
Your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. Volunteers can earn exciting perks based on their hours of service:- 16 Hours: A Northwest Forest Pass, good for parking at Forest Service trailheads in Oregon and Washington.
- 40 Hours: A Central Cascades Wilderness Permit, granting you and a guest unlimited access to all limited-access trails in the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests. No need to deal with recreation.gov permits!
- 250 Hours: An America the Beautiful Pass, offering free entry to all federally managed lands, including National Parks, Forests, and BLM areas.
- 250+ Hours: The priceless reward of knowing you’ve made a lasting impact on the natural spaces you love.
- Make a Difference
Whether you’re installing signage, restoring campsites, or educating visitors, your efforts directly support the health and sustainability of these iconic Wilderness areas.
Upcoming Volunteer Events
FCCW hosts both day trips and overnight backpacking opportunities for volunteers. These trips are an amazing way to connect with other outdoor enthusiasts, learn more about stewardship, and contribute to essential conservation efforts.
We also invite you to our Volunteer Information Night:
- Date: usually in April!
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Location: Deschutes Public Library, Downtown Bend, Brooks Room
Come meet our team, learn more about our mission, and discover how you can get involved!
How to Get Started
Ready to join us? Follow these simple steps to become an FCCW volunteer:
- Register on Cascade Volunteers:
- Visit the Central Oregon Trail Volunteers page and complete the registration form under “I am new to MyImpactpage.com.”
- Submit Your Volunteer Form:
- Complete the attached form provided in your welcome email and send us an email at: [email protected].
Why We Need You
With recent cuts to seasonal staff across National Forests, the need for dedicated volunteers has never been greater. FCCW plays a crucial role in maintaining access to Wilderness areas and protecting their delicate ecosystems. Without volunteers, tasks like campsite restoration, trail maintenance, and visitor education would fall by the wayside.
By joining FCCW, you’re not only helping protect these beloved spaces but also ensuring they remain accessible for generations to come.
Your Support Goes Beyond Volunteering
If you’re unable to volunteer but still want to support FCCW, visit our Partners Page for ways to contribute, including donations, sponsorship opportunities, and more. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the Central Cascades Wilderness.
Get Involved Today
There’s no better time to give back to the outdoors you love. Whether you’re an experienced backpacker or a newcomer eager to learn, FCCW has a place for you. Let’s work together to preserve the beauty, solitude, and character of our National Forests.
Visit our website or DM us on Instagram @centralcascades_org to learn more about upcoming opportunities and how you can make a difference.
Join us—because the Wilderness needs you.
Tags: Wilderness volunteering, Central Oregon, Friends of the Central Cascades Wilderness, trail maintenance, conservation, Deschutes National Forest, Willamette National Forest, Northwest Forest Pass, Wilderness stewardship, outdoor adventure
