Membership in the Umstead Coalition is one of the most direct ways to support the protection and preservation of William B. Umstead State Park and the surrounding open space.

As a volunteer-led, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we depend on our members and donors to fund the work that keeps the Park healthy and protected. When you become a member, your dues go directly to the Park — supporting conservation efforts, trail improvements, wildlife habitat protection, and our ongoing advocacy at the state and local level. See what we accomplished in 2025.

Membership dues are consistent, annual contributions that allow us to plan for the future and respond when the Park needs defending. All dues and donations are tax-deductible.

What Your Membership Supports

Conservation and land protection

Your dues help fund land acquisition efforts, the maintenance of natural undisturbed buffers, and restoration of historic sites within the Park — including the 120 historic cabins and mess halls that required over 7,000 volunteer hours to restore.

Park advocacy

The Coalition has a long history of rising to protect Umstead from threats. Membership dues fund our ability to advocate for the Park at the state and local level — from negotiating for the protection of surrounding land like the Odd Fellows Tract, to the nine-year Stop RDU Quarry legal fight that resulted in a December 2025 court decision restoring the 50-year Sunset Clause and protective stream buffers that had protected the park since 1981.

Trails, ecology, and education 

Membership supports trail maintenance, environmental education initiatives, and projects that focus on the health of native ecosystems within and surrounding the park.

Community 

Members are invited to attend hikes, restoration projects, and educational activities throughout the year — including opportunities to volunteer with fellow Park lovers. Check out Meetup for all of our events.

Member Benefits

Members with a current membership or donation of $15 or more receive early access to our popular Native Plant Sales — a full hour before the public. It's a small but meaningful perk that reflects our gratitude for your ongoing support.

Membership Dues

Membership dues and donations to the Umstead Coalition are tax-deductible. The Umstead Coalition serves as the direct conduit for funds supporting William B. Umstead State Park — 100% of your membership dues go to the Park.

The Umstead Coalition is a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Membership dues and donations are tax-deductible.