Kids all over are rejoicing that the school year is ending and the thrill of having days off will soon set in. But what happens when the excitement wears off in a few weeks and the boredom sets in? I know first-hand what it is like to have a kid itching to get outside and do something different this summer. An eight-year old brother keeps me busy on my days off with persistent pleas to do something active and fun, especially any kind of activity outdoors that can get him (and me) dirty. Not all children are like my brother though; many are the opposite and need a little push outdoors. Either way, a Virginia State Park is the place to be this summer whether your child is an avid-nature-warrior or is curious yet inexperienced.

What better way to spend a week this summer than by becoming a Junior Ranger at Caledon State Park? Nothing compares to the wonder young people experience when allowed to explore the natural world around them. Not only will a Junior Ranger gain a familiarity the outdoors, they will also have a ton of fun and have the ability to spend time with other children during the lull of the summer months. The memories made by having an experience like this are long-lasting and can foster interest in the outdoors for a lifetime.

This year, Caledon State Park is bringing back its Junior Ranger Program and will be offering two different week-long sessions for ages 6-11, July 16-20 and August 20-24. Kids will have the opportunity to go hiking, look for our national bird, study beavers, find sharks teeth, and plenty more. Come hang out with me and our other amazing rangers as we get our hands dirty and discover more and more about the world around us.

More information on the program and how to register can be found here or by calling the Visitor Center at (540) 663-3861. Caledon State Park is home to an Old Growth Forest, many hiking trails, miles of Potomac River shoreline, and a population of year-round bald eagles. We are located in King George County on the Northern Neck of Virginia.