Volunteer With Us
Looking for a volunteer opportunity that gets you outside, allows you to make a difference in the local community, and can be tailored to your skills and passions? Outdoor Chattanooga has been around since the early 90s and has maintained a consistent goal to get people outside. Whether someone is local or has traveled from out of town, we want everyone to have access to the outdoors and have made it our mission to make the outdoors a welcome home for everyone. If you care about people having access to the outdoors, even if you don’t have any training, we would love to hear from you.
Three Ways to Volunteer
Event and Outreach Support
Outdoor Chattanooga puts on multiple events each year such as the Chatt Town Cool Down and the Chattanooga River Games. From helping set up the climbing wall to ticketing, from organizing lost and found to breaking down tents, these events are huge feats that would not be possible without your support.
Custom Opportunities
Do you have ideas and skills for an outdoor program or educational activity that we don’t offer? We would like to hear your input to create a custom program. These in the past have looked like teaching Land Navigation, Fire Building, or building a custom bike storage solution for the inside of our bike trailer. Send us an email with your ideas to info@outdoorchattanooga.com
Program Support
We offer programs throughout the area including in Chattanooga and expanding all the way into the Thrive Region. Some of our more popular programs include Learn to Ride a Bike, Learn to Skateboard, Try Archery, Toddler Treks, and Intro to Whitewater Kayaking. Volunteering to support our programs is the best way for you to get involved if you want to learn a new outdoor skill (yes, we will teach you all the technical skills you need) and you want to see what Outdoor Chattanooga is about. You won’t need to plan or organize any logistics, we do all of that for you. You just need to show up with your excitement and willingness to learn and we will help get you set up in getting our community more comfortable outdoors.
FAQs
Is there a minimum age requirement?
All volunteers have to be at least 18 years old and pass a background check as many of our programs serve minors and vulnerable populations.
Do I need to have any specific skills or experience to volunteer?
No! To be a Program Specific Volunteer, we will teach you all of the technical skills you need to know.
If you do happen to have specific skills and experience you’d like to bring, definitely contact us and let’s start the conversation about creating a Custom Opportunity.
What is the estimated time committment?
That is completely up to you. If you would like to volunteer one time, take a look at our event opportunities. If you would like to volunteer regularly, a Program Specific Volunteer might be right for you. You let us know what you’re able to do and we’ll make it work.
What do I need to bring/wear?
In general you should always bring comfortable shoes like tennis shoes, a water bottle, and a snack. Consider seasonal and weather factors when dressing – don’t forget sunscreen in summers and gloves in the winter. You will not need to bring any supplies for the activities unless specifically stated.
Who do I contact with questions?
Chloe Krueger is our super wonderful Community Activator. If you have any questions, feel free to email ckrueger@chattanooga.gov.
How can I stay updated on volunteer opportunities?
Follow us in Bloomerang!
Can I volunteer if I have physical limitations or disabilities?
Yes! We are always looking for volunteers to help us staff the front desk and greet customers.
Events
Calendar of Events
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Chattanooga Grotto Meeting
Chattanooga Grotto Meeting
Chattanooga Grotto is the caving club of Chattanooga, TN. Meetings are held every first Monday of the month at Outdoor Chattanooga in Coolidge Park at 7PM EST. Anyone is welcome […]
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1 event,
Rapid Learning: Intro to Whitewater Kayaking Roll Clinic and More
Rapid Learning: Intro to Whitewater Kayaking Roll Clinic and More
The Rapid Learning program provides comprehensive whitewater kayak instruction, including all the necessary equipment, specifically designed for beginning and novice kayakers. Our goal is to teach you how to paddle […]
0 events,
1 event,
Learn & Play Disc Golf!
Learn & Play Disc Golf!
⛳🌳 Looking for an exciting outdoor activity that combines nature with fun and social interaction? Look no further than disc golf! Join us for a delightful journey into the world […]
4 events,
Bobby Wilson Free Fishing Day!
Saturday, June 7, is Bobby Wilson Free Fishing Day — a perfect chance to experience the joy of fishing without needing a license! We’re making it easy to get started: […]
Free Fishing Day!
This is the a perfect chance to experience the joy of fishing without needing a license! We’re making it easy to get started. REGISTER with us and we’ll loan you […]
Blueway Paddle Trail Adventure, on W Chickamauga Creek
Blueway Paddle Trail Adventure, on W Chickamauga Creek
About this Course Guided Kayak Tour on West Chickamauga Creek – Part of Outdoor Chattanooga's Blueway Water Trail Adventure Series Join Outdoor Chattanooga for a scenic and immersive guided kayak […]
Toddler Treks – Free
Toddler Treks – Free
Celebrate National Trails Day with your little explorers! Join us for Toddler Treks, a nature walk designed especially for children ages 2–5 and their caregivers. This gentle, guided stroll through […]
3 events,
Free Family Fun Day at Greenway Farm
Free Family Fun Day at Greenway Farm
Join us at Greenway Farm. Go canoeing, play yard games, disc golf, archery, and so much more! All free, for ages 5+. Have fun in the outdoors with trained staff […]
Mountain to Town-downhill bicycle adventure from Lookout Mtn ($)
Mountain to Town-downhill bicycle adventure from Lookout Mtn ($)
Join Outdoor Chattanooga for this (mostly) downhill bike adventure from the heights of Lookout Mountain along the trails and greenways to downtown Chattanooga. Enjoy scenic views of the city while […]
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0 events,
3 events,
Volunteer Orientation
Volunteer Orientation
Curious about how you can get involved and make a difference? Join us for our Volunteer Open House & Orientation! This event introduces new and returning volunteers to upcoming opportunities, […]
Rapid Learning: Intro to Whitewater Kayaking Roll Clinic and More
Rapid Learning: Intro to Whitewater Kayaking Roll Clinic and More
The Rapid Learning program provides comprehensive whitewater kayak instruction, including all the necessary equipment, specifically designed for beginning and novice kayakers. Our goal is to teach you how to paddle […]
“Moonrise” Meditations: A Strawberry Moon Celebration-Free
“Moonrise” Meditations: A Strawberry Moon Celebration-Free
Join Outdoor Chattanooga for another Full Moon Adventure, this one a unique blend of mindfulness, art, and ecological awareness, all set beneath the soft glow of the Strawberry Moon. Gather […]
2 events,
Silver Adventures: Kayak Tour on North Chickamauga Creek
Silver Adventures: Kayak Tour on North Chickamauga Creek
Silver Adventures: "Yes, you can" Leisurely Kayak Tour on North Chickamauga Creek Presented by Outdoor Chattanooga Discover the serene beauty of North Chickamauga Creek on a guided kayak tour specially […]
Landscape Photography Workshop – Free
Landscape Photography Workshop – Free
Landscape Photography Workshop with Local Photographer, Kenny Thatcher. Join local photographer Kenny Thatcher for an evening of exploring the basics of nature photography. You’ll learn about essential gear, compositional techniques, […]
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1 event,
Family Friendly- Bike Adventure @ Reflection Riding w/ O.C.
Family Friendly- Bike Adventure @ Reflection Riding w/ O.C.
Bike Adventure at Reflection Riding with Outdoor Chattanooga (Family Friendly) Join us for a fun and family-friendly bike adventure at Reflection Riding! Explore this beautiful property on a leisurely guided […]
3 events,
What’s SUP? Learn to Stand Up Paddleboard
What’s SUP? Learn to Stand Up Paddleboard
Ready to try Stand Up Paddle Boarding? Join us for a beginner-friendly stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) lesson — no experience needed and equipment is provided! This hands-on class is perfect for […]
Paddle Smart- Intro to Paddlesports +Safety Clinic
Paddle Smart- Intro to Paddlesports +Safety Clinic
In Field Programming- Location Varies Registration opens 2 weeks before event and closes 2 days prior to event 6/15/2506:00 pm - 08:00 pm Registration Dates Members: 6/01/25 at 06:00 PM […]
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Chattanooga Bike Club Monthly Meeting
Chattanooga Bike Club Monthly Meeting
Chattanooga Bicycle Club meets at the Philip Grymes Outdoor Chattanooga Center the 3rd MONDAY monthly from 6pm- 7:30 pm.The CBC is a recreational cycling club whose members share the good fortune of […]
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1 event,
Rapid Learning: Intro to Whitewater Kayaking Roll Clinic and More
Rapid Learning: Intro to Whitewater Kayaking Roll Clinic and More
The Rapid Learning program provides comprehensive whitewater kayak instruction, including all the necessary equipment, specifically designed for beginning and novice kayakers. Our goal is to teach you how to paddle […]
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
Chickamauga Chattanooga Nat’l Battlefield Interpretive Kayak Tour
Chickamauga Chattanooga Nat’l Battlefield Interpretive Kayak Tour
North Chickamauga Creek (Sherman's Crossing) to the confluence of the Tennessee River. Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park will co-host a Free, 2.5 hour, family friendly kayak tour with an […]
1 event,
Sierra Club Meeting- Cherokee Chapter of TN
Sierra Club Meeting- Cherokee Chapter of TN
Learn more about how to get involved with the club and even more opportunities to get outdoors!https://www.sierraclub.org/tennessee/cherokeeThe Sierra Club is the most enduring and influential grassroots environmental organization in the […]
0 events,
1 event,
Rapid Learning: Intro to Whitewater Kayaking Roll Clinic and More
Rapid Learning: Intro to Whitewater Kayaking Roll Clinic and More
The Rapid Learning program provides comprehensive whitewater kayak instruction, including all the necessary equipment, specifically designed for beginning and novice kayakers. Our goal is to teach you how to paddle […]
0 events,
2 events,
Sunset Kayak Tour
Sunset Kayak Tour
Experience downtown Chattanooga like never before—by kayak at sunset! Join Outdoor Chattanooga for a guided, beginner-friendly sunset paddle through the heart of the city. This scenic adventure is perfect for […]
Teen and Adult: Learn to Ride a Bike
Teen and Adult: Learn to Ride a Bike
Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refresh your skills, this class is designed for riders of all ages. Learn how to ride a bicycle in just one session […]
2 events,
Blueway Paddle Trails Adventure Series
Blueway Paddle Trails Adventure Series
Blueway Way Paddle Trails- Adventure Series South Chickamauga Creek : Shallowford Rd to Sterchi Farm Park Embark on a scenic 6-mile kayak journey along the South Chickamauga Creek Blueway, paddling […]
Hike with Pride
Hike with Pride
Join us as we lace up our boots and hit the trails in a joyous exploration of nature and identity on this self guided tour through Stringers Ridge So, pack […]
Did You Know?
The Chattanooga region holds great and diverse whitewater paddling opportunities, for beginners and experts. To the east, the Appalachian Mountains hold iconic whitewater streams like the Ocoee, Hiwassee, Cartecay, Nantahala and Chattooga. Closer to home, the ridges of the Cumberland Plateau offer some of the best steep creek boating in the Eastern U.S.
American Whitewater offers the region’s best river database.