We are very lucky to live right outside Shenandoah National Park. This summer we've been to Dickey Ridge; and we've hiked to Overall Run Falls and Old Rag Mountain. (All of the kids, even the 4 year old, made it to the summit!)
Earlier this year we found out about the National Park Service's program called Junior Rangers. It is offered at most national parks. Children can complete a booklet of activities and participate in ranger-led programs in order to earn a badge or patch. (There is a nominal fee to cover printing costs at some of the parks.) Each park has their own unique patch. Shenandoah National Park's Junior Ranger program is by far the most time-intensive one we've done this summer. In order to earn your SNP patch you have to complete 12 activities in the booklet and attend 2 ranger-led activities. My son has earned a patch from Yorktown National Battlefield and a badge from Petersburg National Battlefield.
I think it is a great program. It encourages children to think about why it is important to protect our natural and historic places for the future. The program also gives the kids some focus as they tour the wonderful sites made available through National Park Service. If you are planning a visit to a national park and intend to do their Junior Ranger program, make sure to get your Junior Ranger materials early in the day to ensure you have ample time to complete the activities. To find out if the park you are visiting offers a Junior Ranger program, visit the National Park Service's website at www.nps.gov.
If you are unable to visit a national park, but your child would still be interested in participating in something similar to the Junior Ranger program, you can visit www.webrangers.us.
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