While Virginia State Parks offer many year-round opportunities to become a Junior Ranger, the summer months are especially full of fun ways to earn that title. From camps to ranger-led programs to self-guided activities, parks across the state are seeking the next generation of park rangers! Discover the possibilities available and find the right fit for your child to engage in outdoor education and kid-friendly activities all summer long. 

Junior Ranger camps and summer programs 

Junior Ranger camp at Powhatan State Park

Several parks offer camps and programs throughout the summer. Pre-registration and payment are required in advance for most of these events, so please check the event page for all the registration information, age requirements, appropriate clothing guidelines, items to bring, etc. 

2025 Junior Rangers (Ages 6-10) at Widewater State Park – various dates 

Junior Ranger Summer Camp 2025 at First Landing State Park – various dates (All the 6-8 programs are sold out, some slots still left for 9-12). 

Junior Ranger Adventure: Survival Skills (5-7 yrs) at Twin Lakes State Park – June 28 and July 26 

Junior Ranger Adventure: Survival Skills (8-12 yrs) at Twin Lakes State Park – June 28 and July 26 

Junior Rangers at Grayson Highlands State Park – July 5, July 12 and July 26 

Junior Ranger Jump Start at Westmoreland State Park – July 6 and July 12 

Junior Ranger Summer Camp at New River Trail State Park - July 7-11 

Junior Ranger Camp at Southwest Virginia Museum – July 7-11 

Junior Ranger Camp at Leesylvania State Park – July 14-17 

Caledon Junior Rangers 2025 at Caledon State Park – July 14-18 

Caledon Teen Rangers 2025 at Caledon State Park – July 28-31 

St. Paul Jr. Ranger Camp at Clinch River State Park – July 14-17 

Junior Ranger Camp (Ages 6-9) at Shenandoah River State Park – July 14-17 

Cleveland Jr. Ranger Camp at Clinch River State Park – July 23-25 

Kid’s Camps (Junior Rangers session) at York River State Park – Aug. 11-14 

Junior Ranger Camp at Shenandoah River State Park

Become a Junior Ranger any time of year 

Turning in the completed Junior Ranger booklet at Machicomoco State Park

Nothing beats a ranger-led program; however, schedules may not meet your needs. Self-guided programs are available at many parks to assist you in self-exploration. Check with the park office or visitor center of the park you are visiting for pre-printed materials, or visit the Junior Ranger webpage for activity booklets, guides, handbooks and more information.  

For many kids, completing a Junior Ranger program, being sworn in by taking the Virginia State Parks Junior Ranger Oath and receiving the official Junior Ranger badge is a highlight of their state park visit.  

Junior Ranger programs and prizes vary by park, so be sure to check the website or call the park for the most up-to-date information. 

Earning Junior Ranger badges at Machicomoco State Park

Rangers are an essential part of Virginia’s state park system, and that includes Junior Rangers as well! These fun programs help kids learn how to preserve and protect our parks, care for their natural and historical resources and explore them safely. The rewards may include badges or other cool prizes, but the benefits of outdoor education last a lifetime.