CSPA is very proud to support the growing group of volunteer docents at this historic light station just off Highway 1. Plans to restore the tower in coming years means that the volunteer group—small at present—must grow to be able to offer tours of the lighthouse again.

Training for the docent program is continuous.  You will work with a mentor to learn the basics of the job while helping us keep this park open. 

Formal training will be scheduled at some time in the future, and runs 3 days, spread over 3 weeks. Local experts teach classes on a variety of subjects including marine mammals, the history of the Light Station, Pescadero Marsh habitat, Ohlone Indians, birds and terrestrial animals, geology, and more. Training is also provided on interpretive techniques for educating visitors.

For more information please review the parks’ website and contact the volunteer coordinator at 1-650-879-2120 or send an email  to Volunteers.PigeonPoint@Parks.CA.gov.

ACTIVITIES

The docents at the historic light station just south of Pescadero provide historical tours of the grounds, staff the park store, interpret the magnificent Fresnel lens and other exhibits in the Fog Signal Building and watch for whales and other wildlife from the observation deck.

Volunteers can also be found in the gardens, tending to the native plants by weeding out the non-native species and planting new seedlings, especially where the ice plant is removed. They restore the grounds and rehabilitate wildlife habitat. It is especially critical to plant with native plants at this site as there is no extra water available for irrigation. 

Cleaning the lens. (Photo: © Avis Boutell)
Observation Deck interpretation
(Photo: courtesy CA State Parks)
Staffing the Park Store. (Photo: © Avis Boutell)