Students ages 13-17

Every summer the Arboretum hosts two teen summer programs: Teen Trail Team and Nature Rangers. All activities are eligible for approved community service hours.

Teens 16+ can apply online to be a Volunteer any time the general application is open. 13+ opportunities only occur during the summer months (June-Aug).

Teen Trail Team

Work closely with our Conservation Team to maintain the Arboretum’s 155 acres of native habitats and 5 miles of trails while learning about Houston’s native ecology. Projects include trail work, enhancing habitats for local wildlife, removing invasive plant species, and more. Protective equipment, tools, and instruction will be provided by Arboretum Staff. This is a good workout and way to stay active all summer long while doing good for Houston’s wild habitats!

Around 10 teens will be chosen to participate in the 2024 session. All participants will be assisting with conservation efforts this summer through hands-on, outdoor projects while accumulating up to 27 hours of community service.

This will be a 10-week session that takes place on Tuesday mornings from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. The session runs from Tuesday, June 4 through Tuesday, August 6.

Important Dates

• Monday, February 12
  Applications Open
• Monday, April 29 at noon
  Applications Close
• Friday, May 3
  Selected Teens Notified
• Tuesday, June 4 – Tuesday, August 6
  10-week Teen Trail Team Session

Nature Rangers

Arboretum Summer Nature Camp Helpers

Join the Arboretum’s summer education efforts as a Nature Ranger! Experience what goes into running environmental education classes, learn classroom management skills, and interact with children of all ages. Volunteers should be interested in working with children and families.

Naturalist staff will lead the way as students participate in daily themed experiments, nature encounters, hikes, games, and more! Nature Ranger positions require a minimum pledge of 2 camp weeks and must attend an interview and orientation. Interview and orientation dates will be available via an RSVP form after you apply.

Summer Nature Camp runs for 10 weeks from Monday, June 3 – Friday, August 9. Camp is Monday-Friday, 8:30 am – 3:30 pm. Nature Ranger Volunteers must sign up for whole weeks (5 days) at a time and must sign up for a minimum of 2 camp weeks.

Important Dates

• Monday, February 12
  Applications Open
• Monday, April 29 at noon
  Applications Close
• Monday, June 3 – Friday, August 9
  Summer Nature Camp