The Lakeside Park Palmetum — Monthly Volunteer Days

The Lakeside Park Palmetum in Oakland is one of the most significant palm collections in the United States, and it is maintained entirely by NCPS volunteers. Established in 1982, the Palmetum features more than 80 varieties of cold-hardy palms in a beautifully landscaped setting open to the public year-round.

We gather monthly at the Palmetum for light maintenance, planting, and good conversation among people who love palms. All skill levels welcome — if you can pull a weed and admire a Bismarckia, you're qualified.

2026 Schedule

ADD IN SIGN UP HERE. 

Volunteer with NCPS at Orchids in the Park 2026

We need enthusiastic members to help staff the NCPS table on July 25–26. This is a fantastic opportunity to represent the chapter, welcome potential new members, and share your love of palms with the public.

As a thank-you, all table volunteers will receive a free pass to the show and  be invited to a behind-the-scenes tour of the new growing spaces at the SF Botanical Garden.

What's Involved

•  Staffing the NCPS table during the show (shifts coordinated among volunteers)
•   Welcoming visitors, answering questions about the chapter, and helping with membership sign-ups
• Joining the SFBG tour at a time to be confirmed with signed-up volunteers