Visitor Services

Calling all history lovers!

Cowpens National Battlefield is approximately 843 acres and offers a one-mile walking loop that cuts through the heart of the battlefield, as well as a 3-mile driving loop used by both vehicles and recreational, a picnic area, a nature trail, and a circa 1828 log cabin.

Cowpens National Battlefield is seeking volunteers to work in Visitor Services. Volunteers are representatives of the National Park Service and are expected to present themselves in a neat and professional manner.

Duties of this position include: 

• Work with rangers to staff the visitor center information desk, to include opening & closing procedures as needed 
• Stand and greet visitors as they enter the visitor center. Orient them to the building and grounds as well as share information about special events and the local area.
• Educate visitors about the historical significance of the park
• Answer frequently asked questions in person and over the telephone
• Answer and direct telephone calls and deliver messages
• Operate audio-visual programs
• Maintain accurate tally of visitors entering the visitor center and attending programs
• Restock brochures and other informational materials at the front desk
• Assist in operation of Junior Ranger Program and swearing in Junior Rangers
• Assist with America’s National Parks bookstore operations
• Ensure visitors have an understanding of park rules and regulations, and that these regulations are important to protect resources within the park and to ensure safety of visitors
• Battlefield roving as needed
• Assist rangers with checking restrooms for supplies and picking up litter on Park grounds
• Assist rangers in handling any emergency or medical situation as directed. Know where first aid kit and AED are kept
• As needed, conduct park closing procedures using a government vehicle, to include informing visitors park is closing, locking gates and bathrooms, setting alarms, obtaining vehicle count numbers for the day
• Provide assistance during special events
• Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, and evenings
• Volunteers will be issued volunteer shirt(s) and hat but must provide their own pants.

Skills & Qualifications Required: 

• Must enjoy interacting with people and have great customer service skills
• Must have a love and knowledge of history, and be willing to learn about the Battle of Cowpens, the park’s history, and the resources that lie within the park
• Must be able to learn cash register operations, including the accurate handling of money and credit card processes
• Minimum age 18, unless volunteering with a parent or guardian
• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• All volunteers must be able to pass a background investigation

Local Volunteers are requested to work one full (8-hour) day per week, sometimes a weekend day. More hours may be available if requested by volunteer. Local volunteers are also requested to help with special events, as their schedules allow.

One RV pad is available for resident volunteers for a minimum of 2 months. Individual residents must be willing to contribute 32 hours per week, and couples must be willing to contribute 24 hours per week per person.

A park house with minimal dormitory amenities may be available for volunteers working 32 hours/week for 3 months.

PLEASE check on your cell phone service in this area. Reception within the park can be erratic at times, the extent depending on service provider.

The park is located about 3 miles from the town of Chesnee and 10 miles from the town of Gaffney, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There is no public transportation available. Temperatures can be hot and muggy in summer; average highs in the lower - mid-90s. Winters are generally moderate with temperatures that can range from highs in the 30s to about 60 degrees. Spring and Fall bring very enjoyable temperatures.

If you have any questions, you may contact the park’s Volunteer Coordinator, Virginia Fowler, at (864) 461-2828 or by email at [email protected]. Mailing address: Cowpens National Battlefield, 338 New Pleasant Road, Gaffney, SC 29341.