Just For Kids

Discover Hidden Wonders

The Explorer Backpack contains almost everything you need to unearth the park's treasures, including binoculars, field guides, magnifying glass, paper and pencils. Backpacks can be rented for $5 per day at visitor centers and come with a free copy of the Junior Ranger Explorer Notebook.

Become a Junior Ranger

Purchase the Junior Ranger Explorer Notebook at any visitor center or gift shop, complete the activities inside, and earn a Junior Ranger sticker, patch or badge. Check the park visitor guide, Shenandoah Overlook, for Junior Ranger Program schedules and locations.

Become a WebRanger

In WebRangers, you can bring national park fun to your computer. Learn more about your national parks before you visit them, or even if you can't visit them. WebRangers also helps you to learn how to care for your parks and the world around you. Visit www.nps.gov/webrangers/home.htm, take the WebRanger pledge and print out and sign your WebRanger membership card. Complete all the activities in one "ranger station" for an award.

A Family Affair

Many of the ranger-led programs offered are ideal for families to learn about the park together. "Birds of Prey" introduces visitors to the world of hawks, owls and other raptors. Live birds that have been permanently injured help to teach about the importance of wildlife protection. "Featuring Big Meadows" showcases the park's only large open area, revealing its past, present and future. Kids and parents can enjoy hands-on activities in Junior Ranger programs, while "Campfire Traditions" is a delightful way to experience Shenandoah at night.