We offer a variety of ways for teens to engage with the ranch. In addition to guided field trips and educational programs, we offer seasonal or school-year internships, community service opportunities, and our Sustainability Squad club.

Teens interested in organic agriculture, animal husbandry, land stewardship, environmental education and applied leadership, or just spending time outdoors working the land are welcome!

What is Slide Ranch?

Slide Ranch is a non-profit, farm-based, environmental education organization located within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, on coastal wildlands just north of San Francisco. The mission of Slide Ranch is to connect children to nature. We cultivate healthy bodies and minds and foster future generations of environmental stewards. By farming, cooking, caring for animals and exploring wilderness and the coast, we teach people of all ages to see the connection between their own health, a healthy food system and a healthy environment.

High School Internships at Slide Ranch: Cultivate Skills in Sustainability and Education
Slide ranch is seeking teen interns for the fall semester! Our structured internships give students an opportunity work hands-on in our organic garden, animal areas, and national parklands. Teen interns meet Wednesday afternoons from 2:30 to 5pm, and one Saturday a month (dates will vary) from 1:30 to 4pm. In addition to hands on projects, interns will engage in discussions of stewardship principles grounded in Robin Wall Kimmerer’s Braiding Sweetgrass. Interns will select independent projects that enrich Slide Ranch’s grounds or programming and should expect to complete their project by the end of the internship. Potential interns should be ready to get their hands dirty (literally)! For more information please contact our Program Coordinator at jack@slideranch.org. Check out this great blog/vlog featuring teen interns from Spring 2025!

Counselors In Training (CIT)
Our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program offers youth aged 12-17 the opportunity to build essential leadership and childcare skills while supporting Slide Ranch's summer camp programs. CITs are integral members of our camp team—working alongside our staff, guiding younger campers, assisting with hands-on activities, and learning the fundamentals of outdoor education. CITs develop their confidence as role models, learn practical childcare techniques, and gain experience in environmental stewardship. This is a unique program for teens ready to step into a leadership role; CITs are not campers themselves but mentors and helpers, actively contributing to a vibrant and supportive camp community. Learn more about our CIT program.

Volunteer Hours: Flexible Service Opportunities
We welcome teen volunteers for one-time sessions or regular volunteer hours. Volunteering at Slide Ranch is a fun, hands-on way to make a real impact. Care for our farm animals, work in the organic garden, and more. Volunteers work under staff supervision to support the daily activities of our farm. Teens seeking community service hours are encouraged to come on Saturday or Sunday mornings. Youth under 15 are required to volunteer with a participating adult. Register to volunteer here.

TEEN OPPORTUNITIES