Become a Junior Ranger at Pinnacles National Park

A young visitor looking at a Junior Ranger booklet

NPS Photo/Kurt Moses

Explore. Learn. Protect.

Junior Ranger Program

The Junior Ranger Program at Pinnacles National Park is a fun and educational way for kids to explore and learn about the park’s unique ecosystems, wildlife, and geological features. Designed for children of all ages, this program encourages young visitors to engage with the natural world while fostering a sense of stewardship for our national parks.

How It Works

To become a Junior Ranger, pick up a free Junior Ranger booklet at either the Bear Gulch Nature Center or the West Visitor Contact Station. The booklet contains a variety of activities that guide children through different areas of the park, helping them discover the fascinating plants, animals, and geological formations that make Pinnacles special. Activities may include wildlife observation, drawing, matching games, and learning about the park’s history.

Earn Your Badge

After completing the activities in the booklet, participants can bring their finished booklets to a ranger at one of the visitor centers to receive a special Pinnacles Junior Ranger Badge as a reward for their hard work and dedication.

More to Explore

Check out the National Park Service's Kids in Parks page to explore more Junior Ranger programs. You can download Junior Ranger books from other parks, observe wildlife through web cams, and complete fun activities all from the comfort of your home.

Details

Duration

10-30 Minutes

Activity

Junior Ranger Program

Age(s)

All ages, but minors must be with an adult parent or guardian.
Recommended for ages 3 and older

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

All structures and areas of the Park are closed to the possession of pets except developed picnic areas, within 10 feet of paved roads and parking areas, within the boundaries of the campground, within 10 ft. of the dirt road from the campground through the Bacon Ranch historic area to the gate ½ mile to the south, and within 25 ft. of the structures at the Bacon Ranch historic area.
Pets must not be left unattended and tied to an object in the park.
 

Activity Fee

No

No additional fee to be a Junior Ranger but there is a park entrance fee. Learn more about Fees and Passes.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Any Time

Completed activities may be turned in at:
West Visitor Contact Station, open daily from 9 AM to 3PM.
Bear Gulch Nature Center, open Friday - Tuesday from 9 AM to 3PM.

Accessibility Information

*service animals permitted