The Pisgah Ranger District in North Carolina’s Pisgah National Forest is home to some of the region’s most beloved natural attractions, including Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Rock, and Moore Cove Falls. But with more than 150,000 acres to care for, keeping the district’s trails and recreation areas healthy and accessible takes serious time and effort
Enter Pisgah Project Day.
Pisgah Project Day
Held each April, Pisgah Project Day (PPD) is the forest’s largest volunteer event.
In partnership with The Pisgah Conservancy, the U.S. Forest Service, and event sponsor, PPD gives volunteers of all ages the opportunity to complete dozens of improvement projects throughout the forest. Families with children and senior citizens are welcome to participate.
Pisgah Project Day 2026 will be held on Saturday, April 25th. Registration opens in mid-March.
What kind of projects are involved?
In 2025, 500 volunteers completed 25 projects in a single day. Tasks included invasive plant removal, gardening and trail improvements, trash cleanup, fence repair, drainage work, and more.
When you register, you’ll share your project preferences so organizers can match you with a good fit.
Can kids and families volunteer at Pisgah Project Day?
Yes! Volunteers of all ages are welcome, though those under 18 will need a parental consent form.
Organizers carefully match volunteers to projects that align with their ages and physical abilities. You won’t end up on a grueling assignment unless you specifically opt in.
How do volunteers register?
Volunteers can register online, with 2026 registration opening in mid-March. You can also sign up as a group if you’d like to work together.
All volunteers receive a free t-shirt (be sure to select your size during registration) and event updates via email.
On event day, volunteers meet at the Pisgah Ranger Station in Brevard at 8:00 AM to sign in, pick up t-shirts, and receive project assignments. You’ll then meet your crew leader and head to your project site, usually a short drive away.
After a safety briefing and gear distribution — including helmets and gloves — you’ll complete about three hours of meaningful work before wrapping up and heading to the optional after party.
It’s productive, rewarding, and a fantastic way to give back to the outdoors we all enjoy.
What is Pisgah Project Day really like?
I (Christy) have volunteered at Pisgah Project Day for the past five years. Alongside my hiking group, I’ve pruned trees at the Cradle of Forestry and dug drainage ditches at Bennett Gap Trail. The work can be challenging, but it’s always fun and incredibly satisfying.
Don’t miss the after party!
The official after party at Oskar Blues Brewery is the perfect way to celebrate. Hundreds of volunteers gather to unwind after a productive day.
Volunteers receive a voucher for a free drink and a food item from the Chub Wagon Food Truck. Thanks to generous sponsors, there are also plenty of prize giveaways. In the past, I’ve gone home with a blanket and a backpack!
Mark your calendar for Pisgah Project Day
Pisgah Project Day 2026 takes place on Saturday, April 25th, with registration in mid-March. Register here. The event fills up quickly, so be sure to register early!
Looking for outdoor volunteer opportuities closer to home? Check out our list of Volunteer Opportunities in the Great Outdoors Near Greenville, SC!