Junior Ranger Programs

 

A ranger leads a Junior Ranger program about fishing.

NPS / DJR

Children and their adults can participate in free Junior Ranger and Junior Ranger, Jr. programs!

For summer 2024, programs happen every Wednesday, Friday and some Saturdays, June 12 through August 14, weather permitting. Junior Ranger programs are for kids ages 7–12 and Junior Ranger, Jr. programs are for kids ages 4–6. Complete two of these programs and earn a special Junior Ranger badge.

Registration is required and locations are given upon registration. For more information and to register, visit our events calendar and search keywords "Junior Ranger" or follow one of the links below. If you have questions about Junior Ranger programs, call and leave a message on the Junior Ranger Hotline: [phone].

Summer 2024 Programs

Junior Ranger (ages 7–12)

Pond Fishing

Look from the edge of the pond into the water. What do you see? What swims beneath the murky waters? Find out! Learn the fundamentals of using a rod and reel to earn your Junior Ranger Angler Badge!
June 29, July 13, and August 3, 9:30–11:30 am

River Fishing, ages 9–12 only

Join the many anglers who have fished the mighty Cuyahoga River! Learn what lives in the river that gives our park its name and practice the fundamentals of using a rod and reel. All while earning your Junior Ranger Angler Badge!
June 26, July 17, and August 14, 9:30–11:30 am

Orienteering

Come learn the lost art of orienteering using only a map and compass! Be prepared to hike off-trail while learning to navigate over unfamiliar terrain. Compass and map will be provided.
June 21, August 9, 9:30–11:30 am

Falling Waters

Experience the cool mist and power of rushing water on a hot summer day. Visit the national park’s biggest waterfall, look for wildlife, and follow the downward journey water makes through the valley.
June 19, July 12, and August 2, 6–8 pm

Dragon Hunt

Have you ever wondered about those flying pond creatures that zip past your head? Come on out to discover the magical world of dragonflies.
July 5 and July 20, 9:30–11:30 am

Watershed Wonders

Discover what makes a healthy watershed. Make your own journal, play a water game, and discover which animals call this place home.
June 12 and July 24, 9:30–11:30 am

Junior Ranger, Jr. (ages 4–6)

Nature's Music

Listen—the forest has its own musical rhythms: a chorus of chirps, a drumming of feet, a whistle through the trees. Tune into the sounds of nature, wiggle, dance, and make your own music!
June 14 and July 31, 9:30–11:30 am

A Very Busy Forest

Explore the wonders of the woods through art, story, hiking, and nature play. We’ll search for clues to uncover which animals live among the trees.
June 21, July 3, and August 7, 9:30–11:30 am

Creatures of the Night

Have you ever wondered which animals are out and about while you sleep? Investigate nocturnal mammals through hands-on activities, crafts, story, and a hike to explore the park at night.
June 28 and July 19, 6–8 pm

Life Along the River

The Cuyahoga River has many stories to share. Come explore the creatures that call the river home and take a walk along the Towpath Trail.
July 10 and July 26, 9:30–11:30 am

Feathered Friends

Let’s talk about birds! Discover what makes birds unique and different from other animals through activities and stories. We will also hike the area and look (and listen) for birds!
July 6 and August 10, 9:30–11:30 am

Junior Ranger Day Camp

Junior Rangers interested in a multi-day exploration of their national park can sign up for one or more weeks of Junior Ranger Day Camp during the summer.

Summer 2024

Junior Rangers spend a week alongside rangers exploring the plants and animals of Cuyahoga Valley National Park through hikes, games, hands-on science, and nature art. There are two weeks of camp with two different themes. Camp runs from 9 am to 3 pm daily. Campers will need a packed lunch.

• Week 1: July 22–26
• Week 2: July 29–August 2

Visit the Conservancy's website for more information or head straight to their CampBrain page to register.