Yosemite’s Junior Ranger programming inspires kids to learn about and protect natural resources in our national parks and in their own backyards. Each year, tens of thousands of children earn their one-of-a-kind wooden Yosemite Junior Ranger badges through nature-focused walks and talks, educational worksheets and stewardship activities.

With support from Conservancy donors during the past decade, Yosemite’s Junior Ranger programming has been able to expand throughout the park, leverage new technology, and provide engaging ways for kids and families to learn about safety and preservation. In 2017, Yosemite rangers offered year-round programs for kids of all ages, and swore in more than 12,400 new junior rangers at the park’s visitor centers. They also introduced new weekly summer programs at Glacier Point; expanded activities in the Wawona area; created a “Discovery Table” at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center; and held special events celebrating Junior Ranger Day and the summer solar eclipse.

Your support helped inspire new Yosemite protectors by connecting children with enriching Junior Ranger activities.

Completed in partnership with Yosemite National Park.

Andy Fristesnky

Branch Chief of Field Interpretation

Project Notes

Each year, we have had dramatic increases in the number of children that have left Yosemite National Park as Junior Rangers, proudly wearing their new badge. We are constantly evaluating and improving our junior ranger programs to provide the most effective opportunities for young visitors to learn about and experience Yosemite’s incredible resources.