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National Park Week is April 20-28 this year. For Spring Break, my family took a trip out west and we visited about eight National Parks. Pictured above is a snapshot of the Grand Canyon from Grand Canyon National Park. If you've ever been to the Grand Canyon, then you know pictures can't quite capture the awesomeness of this place.
As we traveled from one National Park to another, we learned so much more about these wonderful places - and we already knew a lot! I wanted to write this article to share some of what we learned.
- Junior Ranger Day is April 27 and you can check the link for activities happening in National Parks, but also online!
- This is a FREE program where children complete activities at each National Park and can earn a Jr. Ranger badge and say a pledge to protect the parks.
- There are online games and printable activities.
- We bought Junior Ranger vests for our girls to wear and collect their badges.
- There is a Passport Cancellation station at each National Park as well. Here, families can stamp in their passports to track the National Parks they have been to and the date is on the stamp.
- We also starting stamping the Junior Ranger Activity Books to record that visit too!
- Do you have a fourth grader? Your child can get your family a free year long pass! Read more here.
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- This is a FREE app that gives information about each National Park.
- Under the list area, I started adding in the National Parks I've visited. It's a fun way to track and learn more about them!
- Within each park on the app, you can find out the daily programs taking place, such as Ranger Talks, get up to date information as well as park news, visitor center locations, park calendars, alerts, picnic areas and amenities.
- Some National Parks have a webcam!
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- Certain National Parks have a conservancy program, which fund things like the Junior Ranger Program, search and rescue efforts and other things.
- We joined the Grand Canyon Conservancy program and their site has even more in-depth information. Check out trail routes, places to eat and stay, and live web cams.
- Use your member card to save on merchandise at other Conservancy Program stores in National Parks and Monuments.
- Our family bought a year pass for $80.
- There are discounts/free passes available to seniors, military and residents with permanent disabilities.
- The first day of National Park Week is April 20 and fees are waived at all National Parks!
- Do you have a fourth grader? Your child can get your family a free year long pass!
- Teachers, check this link for classroom activities, field trip ideas, and Teacher Ranger programs.
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