Youth Conservation Corps

The Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) is an opportunity for youths from all segments of society to spend the summer working, learning, and earning together by doing projects on public land.

The YCC performs needed conservation work on public lands; provides gainful employment for young people from all social, economic, and ethnic backgrounds; and fosters and develops an understanding and appreciation of our nation's natural, historical, and cultural heritage for participating youths.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens between the ages of 15 and 18, and must not reach their 19th birthday before the program end date. The program runs from June through August of each year.

Applications are accepted during the recruitment period of March to April of each year. Applications can be obtained from most school guidance offices and at the Gulf Islands National Seashore Headquarters at 1801 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Gulf Breeze, Florida. For information, please visit our contact us page.

2025 Season

Gulf Islands is accepting applications for the 2025 season until close of business on April 20, 2025. To apply, please download the application form (Youth Conservation Corps Application Form) and submit it via email to jennifer_watson@nps.gov. You are also encouraged to submit a cover letter and resume along with your application form.