Junior Ranger: Rock Scavenger Hunt

Geologists are a type of scientist that wants to know more about the world around them, specifically the rocks beneath our feet. (or over your head if you’re in a cave!)

How do they find out about rocks? The very first thing they do is observe. So, let’s explore the world around us and find some rocks!

You can try and find these rocks anywhere—you can spend an afternoon in a local park or you can look for them in many locations over multiple days. It’s up to you!

NOTE: Before you collect a rock, think about where you are. Collecting rocks is fun and many geologists have their own rock collections, but you shouldn’t collect rocks everywhere. Sometimes, the best thing to do is to leave a rock where it is so others can enjoy it!

If you can’t collect a rock for this activity, you can take a picture of it or even draw it. Can you think of other ways to remember what a rock is like? Try creating a rhyme or song: Rough and oval and cracked and pointy!

Get ready! Can you find these?

• A rock that’s smooth
• A rock that’s light in color
• A rock that’s made out of other rocks
• Something that looks or feels like a rock but isn’t
• Two rocks that are different weights
• A rock that can’t be moved from where it is
• A rock that’s shiny or reflects light
• A rock that is easy to break
• A rock bigger than a car
• A with a hole in it
• A rock with lichen or moss on it

Now that you’ve found some rocks, go ahead and make a video, audio clip, or write down a little bit about your rocks. Here are some things you could tell us:

• Out of all the rocks you found, which is your favorite?
• Which was the hardest to find? Which rock was in the strangest location?
• Do any of your rocks look similar?
• Did you find a rock that fit in multiple categories?
• If you had to sort your rocks into different groups, how would you do it?
• What was the coolest rock that you found? Why?

Nicely done, Junior Geologist! Remember to search for cool rocks where you go!

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Want to learn more about the geology of caves? In the Junior Cave Scientist activity book, you will explore the fascinating and fragile underground world of caves, learn about the National Park System, and complete fun educational activities. Participants who complete the booklet will earn a badge, a certificate, and the title of Junior Cave Scientist. Follow this link to download the book.

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