Things to Do

Kids Explore Texas State Parks: Junior Ranger Program

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Tony Maples Photography

 

In May 2013, Texas implemented the Junior Ranger Program in many Texas State Parks. What better way to explore such a beautiful and diversified geological area than by using hands-on activities and a little bit of imagination! When accompanied by an adult, kids can check out a Junior Ranger Explorer Pack at no cost.

These packs, designed for children ages 7-12, contain all the tools for an exciting and educational journey. Inside each explorer pack you will find: binoculars, a magnifying glass, an animal tracking key, a guide to flowers, birds, rocks, and plants, a pencil, crayons, water colors, and a journal sketch book, and a Junior Ranger Journal. The Junior Ranger Journal discusses topics on safety rules, the water cycle and conservation, observing wildlife, exploring the past, keeping our parks beautiful, and the functions of our park rangers. The journal is also loaded with fun activities to do. Upon completion of the journal, take it to the park ranger’s office and receive your Junior Ranger Badge and keep the journal as your souvenir!

Exploring Nature on your Junior Ranger Journey at the beautiful Guadalupe River State Park

guadalupe river

Photo: Texas Parks & Wildlife

Looking for a state park with the Junior Ranger Program? The Guadalupe River State Park is just one of the many Texas state parks that implemented the Junior Ranger Program.  Located in the beautiful Spring Branch of the Texas Hill Country, the river takes the spot light of this state park. Water is one of our most important natural resources is one of the lessons in the Junior Ranger Journal. The journal explores the water cycle process, reflects on ways we use water and how we can conserve this most vital resource that every living thing needs to survive.

Did you know that very drop of water we will ever have is here already? WOW! Guadalupe River State Park is a great place to explore the natural resources in the journal. After your mini-lesson, take a break and enjoy a dip in the river and enjoy this natural resource (of course, in designated and safe areas).

Discover the stunning formations and wildlife of Pedernales Falls State Park

pedernales falls 680

Photo: Texas Parks & Wildlife

Pedernales Falls State Park, located in the Texas Hill Country in Johnson City, Texas is an absolute must-see gem in your Junior Ranger exploration! This park has many hiking trails from the .5 mile Twin Falls Nature Trail to the six mile Wolf Mountain Trail to the 10 mile Juniper Ridge Trail. Make sure you have those binoculars out and ready!

Dated back from 300 million years ago the limestone formations are stunning sights of this park will make your heart “skip a beat” and you don’t want to miss one moment. Along your hiking trail(s) you may see many different species of birds such as doves, owls, and roadrunners.  You may also see animals such as white-tailed deer, armadillos, and rabbits. There are many beautiful pecan, elm, walnut, and hackberry trees to see as well. After all these sights your little ones may want to get out that box of crayons or those water paints and paint the beautiful sights of the falls, trails, animals, and vegetation. What a beautiful keepsake they would be!

Knowledge is Power!

award junior ranger

Photo: www.nps.gov

Work hard, play hard, and don’t forget to stop by the ranger station and receive your Junior Ranger badge. You have now become an expert Junior Ranger in the Texas Hill Country, GREAT JOB!  As always enjoy the time with your family, friends, and the beautiful Texas Hill Country. God Bless Texas!

References: 

www.tpwd.texas.gov/spdest/programs/jr_ranger

www.tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/pedernales-falls