Just in time for Great Outdoors Month (June), Girl Scouts of the USA has announced a Girl Scout Ranger Program in partnership with the National Park Service! “The National Park Service and Girl Scouts of the USA have the same goal in mind: providing meaningful and memorable experiences for girls through unique outdoor experiences,” said Peggy O’Dell, National Park Service deputy director. “Through this partnership, girls will be introduced to the many ways they can play, learn, serve, and work in our national parks. We are committed to connecting our nation’s cultural and national treasures with today’s youth—so go ‘Find Your Park’!” 

According to the Girl Scout Blog “through the program, girls can participate in a variety of organized educational or outdoor service projects. Additionally, Girl Scouts may design their own project that aligns with their Girl Scout Journey experience, various badge activities, or a Take Action (“highest award”) project. Girls who successfully complete projects will be awarded certificates from the National Park Service and Girl Scout patches.”

Girls and troops who wish to participate in the Girl Scout Ranger Program can visit the National Park Service website to locate a park (“Find Your Park”) near their home and complete the 5 steps to the Girl Scout Ranger Program. There, they can also explore the history of the park and learn about its natural and cultural resources. Troop leaders and parents can arrange for activities like hiking, biking, wildlife watching, and guided interpretive tours, and the Girl Scout Ranger Program will also allow girls to build their own unique park experience, earning badges and patches along the way. Need more information? Check out these frequently asked questions about the program.

As June 13th is national “Get Outdoors Day” and June 27th celebrates all camping has to offer with the “National Wildlife Federation’s Great American Campout, the summer months are the perfect time to start! So what are you waiting for? Find your favorite park, explore a national monument, and become a Girl Scout Ranger!