The Great Sand Dunes are made for kids!

You can play in the sand, roll or slide down a dune, splash in Medano Creek in spring and early summer, hike in the mountains, see cool interactive exhibits at the Visitor Center, and earn a Junior Ranger badge. There are no poisonous animals or insects in the dunes - they are safe for all ages. Many ranger programs are kid-friendly; ask at the Visitor Center for the best programs for kids during your stay in the park.

The Junior Ranger Program at Great Sand Dunes is designed for kids ages 3-12, with activities for each age group. Complete the sections in the booklet for your age group, and earn a badge or a patch! Booklets require a minimum stay in the park of two hours for completion.

Interactive Exhibits in the Visitor Center help kids of all ages learn about the park. A geology rock and mineral table, small lightning tube, and other exhibits make learning fun for pre-schoolers to adults. 

Junior Ranger Day Each summer the park hosts a special day with numerous activities for kids, including learning about nature, primitive skills, sand sculpturing, crafts and more. June 9 is the date for 2012! Plan to come early as parking, camping and lodging will fill quickly.

Attention San Luis Valley middle schoolers and high schoolers! Check out the Ambassadors for Wilderness summer program. Learn skills, go backpacking, make new friends, have a blast!