Alabama State Parks Kicks Off Junior Park Ranger Program

Alabama State Parks has developed a new program that encourages youngsters to join in the fun the State Parks System provides by becoming Junior Park Rangers.

The program is open to children of all ages, with activities designed especially for ages 5-12. Participation is free. Families, school groups and youth organizations are all welcome to join. If the youngsters have no prior outdoor experience, the Junior Park Ranger Program is a great place to start. For kids who are accustomed to the outdoors, the program will expand their knowledge and appreciation of Alabama’s natural wonders.

“Launching Alabama’s first statewide Junior Park Ranger Program is a moment of deep pride and gratitude for our entire Parks team,” said Renee Raney, Alabama State Parks’ Chief Naturalist. “This program opens the door for children and families to explore all 21 State Parks as outdoor classrooms, building curiosity, stewardship and lasting memories together. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in how we connect young people to Alabama’s natural heritage.”

To get started, go to www.alapark.com/JuniorParkRanger to download the “Junior Park Ranger Adventure Guide,” which is also available at any State Park. After completing the activities in the guide, participants share what they’ve learned with a Park Ranger at their nearest State Park. Once that is done, the kids receive a Certificate of Achievement and a Junior Park Ranger badge.

“The Junior Park Ranger Program is designed to connect today’s youngsters with the outdoors in a way that will keep them engaged with activities that include exploring Alabama’s great State Parks,” said State Parks Director Matthew Capps. “This not only engages the kids, but family and friends will also see the enthusiasm these youngsters have for the program, which will encourage everyone to take advantage of these great resources at our State Parks.”

The mantra for the program is “Learning happens on the trail!” The program encourages the youngsters and families to swim, bike, paddle, fish or hike the more than 500 miles of trails in our State Parks, exposing the families to Alabama’s great diversity of landscapes and animals like white-tailed deer, rabbits and squirrels. The program’s Passport Challenge encourages participants to visit all 21 parks.

Once a Junior Park Ranger, the youngsters are charged with a list of responsibilities that include showing respect for wildlife by observing from a distance and never feeding wild animals; leaving no trace by disposing of waste and not disturbing the natural features in the park; and staying safe by using established trails and durable surfaces for camping sites.

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