Become a Docent

The Friends of the Elephant Seal is a cooperating association with California State Parks and a supporter of the Docent Training Program.

Elephant Seal Docents are State Park volunteer interpreters who serve the public at the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery in Hearst San Simeon State Park.

If you enjoy the outdoors, love to share knowledge, are passionate about protecting wildlife, and are fascinated by elephant seals and marine life, consider becoming a volunteer docent-interpreter. Professional-quality training, reference materials, and mentoring are provided.

To learn more, click here: Volunteer with California State Parks! 

All volunteers meet enrollment requirements with California State Parks prior to participation in training.  Applicants must be 18 or older.

For additional information, use the link above, or reach out to the State Park District Volunteer Coordinator, Monica Rutherford:  (805) 460-8762 or [email protected]

From mid-December to mid- March, young male elephant seals – often driven off other beaches by dominant bulls –haul out to rest on William R. Hearst Memorial Beach, a popular destination for both people and their dogs. Docents share safe viewing tips with visitors, helping to protect both wildlife and the public.