Junior Ranger

A ranger and child both with right hands raised for a Junior Ranger swearing in.
 

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a national park ranger? Find out for yourself by becoming a Junior Ranger! At Shenandoah, you can join a ranger to learn about the resources they are responsible for protecting: plants, lichens, deer, historic home sites, peregrine falcons, habitats, trees, streams, rocks, bugs, and more.

During spring, summer and fall, park rangers conduct regularly scheduled Junior Ranger programs. You can explore an amazing area with a ranger and take part in fun hands-on activities. These programs are designed for children ages 7-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult. See the ranger program page for specific days, times, and meeting places.

Can't make it to Shenandoah National Park? Not a problem. Find out how you can become a Virtual Junior Ranger!

 
Shenandoah National Park Junior Range Book

Junior Ranger Activity Book

Going on a hike or walk with a Ranger is just the beginning! Our Junior Ranger Activity Booklet (geared toward ages 7-12) is loaded with fun activities that help you really get to know the Park. Besides having lots of fun, you can earn a Junior Ranger badge. You can pick up your free Junior Ranger booklet at Byrd Visitor Center (mile 51), Dickey Ridge Visitor Center (mile 4.6), or download the Junior Ranger booklet (pdf 2.9 mb). Have fun completing the activities during your adventure in Shenandoah National Park! Here's what to do:

1. Complete Arrowhead Adventures.

Start your Junior Ranger journey by completing Arrowhead Adventures on page one.

2. Complete at least five pages in the Junior Ranger Book.

Choose and complete any five activity pages. Arrowhead Adventures does not count towards this!

A TRACK Trail activity guide can count as a page. TRACK Trail activity guides can be found at Fox Hollow Trail (mile 4.6), Limberlost Trail (mile 43), and Blackrock Summit Trail (mile 84.8).

3. Attend a Ranger program.

Fill out the name of the program and what you learned in your Junior Ranger book. Then ask the Ranger to sign off on your accomplishment.

Check the Ranger Programs page for a schedule of programs. If there are not any programs during your visit, watch a Virtual Junior Ranger program. Still complete your assignment.

4. Get your book signed.

Take your finished book to the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, Byrd Visitor Center, or the Park's Mobile Visitor Center. Ask a Ranger to review your book.

You can also send your finished book along with your mailing address to:

Shenandoah National Park
ATTN: Junior Ranger Program
3655 US Highway 211 East
Luray, VA 22835

5. Recite the Junior Ranger pledge and get your official badge.

Congratulations, you are a Junior Ranger!

Last updated: March 26, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Shenandoah National Park
3655 U.S. Highway 211 East

Luray, VA 22835

Phone:

540 999-3500
Emergency Phone: 1-800-732-0911

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