Junior Rangers

A child is smiling and holding Junior Ranger materials as a State Park Interpreter stands behind them.

Over 100 California State Parks offer youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

At a Jr Ranger Program, State Parks staff and volunteers will introduce you to California’s diverse natural and cultural resources up-close. Many parks also have self-guided Junior Ranger Adventure Guides for you to complete when a staffed program is not available.

When you finish a Junior Ranger Program or Adventure Guide, you will earn a wooden Badge with the name of the park you visited, a Logbook to record your experience, and a unique Stamp to go in your Logbook. Take your Logbook to the next California State Park you visit to continue earning awards and gaining firsthand knowledge of our state.

Use this map to find a California State Park where you can become a Junior Ranger. Program offerings change regularly. Call ahead to the park to confirm the availability of Junior Rangers before your visit.