Nonprofit
Volunteer with the Land Trust: Join us for Picnic at the Preserve 2026!
Details
Description
On Sunday May 17, 2026, the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County will host Picnic at the Preserve, our annual spring gathering at the breathtaking Arroyo Hondo Preserve on the Gaviota Coast. This year’s event holds special significance as we celebrate 25 years of protecting and stewarding Arroyo Hondo Preserve—a place that has become a cornerstone of conservation, education, and community connection in Santa Barbara County.
Picnic at the Preserve brings together more than 200 conservation supporters for an unforgettable day on the land, featuring locally sourced food and wine, hands-on experiences, and meaningful opportunities to connect more deeply with the places your support helps protect.
We're looking for a number of dedicated volunteers to help support our team before, during, and after the event. Spend the day outside volunteering with us at Arroyo Hondo!
Lunch and snacks will be provided. We will provide volunteers with a Land Trust t-shirt to wear during the event.
This volunteer opportunity is open to volunteers ages 16 and up! Underage volunteers (16+) must have a legal guardian sign the safety waiver and code of conduct forms on their behalf. An adult chaperone will need to accompany them for the volunteer shift.
Please select a shift from the options below. There's a volunteer role for everyone! Please note that some of these tasks may be physically demanding, including lifting and carrying equipment.
- Photography Help us capture moments throughout the day by taking photos of guests and the event!
- All Day Shift Be a jack of all trades. You'll fill in wherever our team needs extra support throughout the day!
- Set-Up Crew Help set up the event space by sorting materials, arranging table settings/centerpieces, and preparing the experience stations.
- Guest Support/Breakdown We’d love your help pouring beer, wine, and water during lunch (21+ only to serve alcohol). Assist the Land Trust staff in counting donations during the paddle raise.
- Clean Up Crew/Green Team Help tidy up after the event! Monitor waste stations to ensure trash and recycling are sorted correctly. Assist the staff in organizing and packing up materials.
Location
Arroyo Hondo Preserve
Directions
The Arroyo Hondo Preserve is a magnificent canyon located west of Santa Barbara between Refugio State Beach and Gaviota State Park on 910-acres. Purchased from the Hollister family in late 2001, Arroyo Hondo is protected forever and managed by the Land Trust as a natural and historic preserve. The preserve is rich in Chumash and early California history and the canyon and meadows are thriving with wildlife.
- When you arrive at the preserve, please drive carefully down the driveway (10mph) and be mindful of wildlife.
- Staff will direct you where to park after coming down the driveway.
Click here to find driving directions to Arroyo Hondo on our website!
How to Volunteer for This Opportunity
To volunteer for this year's Picnic at the Preserve, please create an account on POINT and sign up through our volunteer page! Once you create an account, you'll be able to register for this event and all the other available volunteer opportunities at the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County.
