July 2, 2014 Florida State Parks Newsletter

Junior Rangers standing with a Park Ranger at Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park.

The Florida State Parks Junior Ranger Program has officially launched and provides the opportunity for young people to learn, serve and share our parks’ natural and cultural resources. Currently 88 state parks and trails are participating in the program and you can visit any of the participating Florida State Parks or Trails and ask for a Junior Ranger Kit to get started. The activities inside the kit are based on four categories, including cultural resources, natural resources, recreation and service.

After completing the core activities, Junior Rangers are asked to recite the Junior Ranger Pledge to obtain a certificate, member ID card and the official Junior Ranger passport. Once Junior Rangers collect their passport, they can complete more activities to earn stamps. Junior Rangers can receive official Junior Ranger badges, patches or pins by filling their passports.

By the time a Junior Ranger accomplishes all the activities in the Junior Ranger Kit, he or she will have learned important aspects about protecting Florida State Parks and Trails. Junior Rangers are eligible for rewards as more activities are accomplished. Join us at a Florida state park or trail to become a Junior Ranger.

Two boaters at Lake Manatee State Park.

The Department of Environmental Protection joins with Governor Rick Scott to celebrate July as Recreation and Parks Month. The Florida Park Service invites residents and visitors to enjoy all of Florida State Parks’ recreational opportunities. Florida State Parks contribute to a healthy lifestyle, boost the economy and promote cultural diversity. Recreation and Parks Month recognizes the importance of recreational and educational opportunities.

Many Florida state parks are holding events throughout July to celebrate Recreation and Parks Month. At Ravine Gardens State Park, visitors are invited to find the hidden American flag to win two one-day Florida State Park passes. The flag will be hidden three times between July 1 and 8. O’Leno State Park is offering a photo scavenger hunt at 1 p.m. on July 4 and participants can win prizes if they capture photos of everything on the list in the allotted time.

Visitors may hike, bike, canoe, kayak and attend special events, allowing families and friends to get outside and enjoy Florida’s famous sunshine and cool waters during Recreation and Parks Month. Visit our events page for more chances to get outdoors.