NPS photo by Cynthia Ocel

On your next visit to the park, ask about how you can earn an official junior ranger patch!

Are you planning a visit to Acadia National Park? Do you want to have fun while learning about the plants, animals, rocks, and history of the park? If so, Acadia National Park's Junior Ranger Program is for you! It is an exciting way for kids of all ages to explore the park's natural and historical wonders. 

What is a junior ranger?
A junior ranger attends ranger programs, completes activities in a workbook, and promises to take care of Acadia National Park. It is a great way to learn and have fun in the park! When you are a junior ranger, you can teach others how to care for nature.

How do you become a junior ranger?
When you arrive in Acadia National Park, stop by the visitor center, nature center, or one of the park campgrounds to purchase your junior ranger booklet. There is a booklet for ages 8 and older and another for ages 7 and younger. You will then be ready to begin your junior ranger training!

Complete activities in the booklet and attend ranger programs, then take the completed booklet back to the visitor center, nature center, or park campgrounds. A park employee will check your answers, sign your booklet and give you an official Acadia National Park junior ranger patch. You can take it home and show all your friends!! (Be sure to tell your mom and dad that we have a Senior Ranger Program, too, for anyone over 18.)

More Junior Ranger Activities
If you want to learn more about national parks and how you can help protect them, check out these other fun offerings from the National Park Service:

WebRangers - Become a WebRanger online. Solve mysteries, play games, and receive rewards!

Junior Ranger Gazette - This journal includes fun facts, activities, and stories about the national parks.