Junior Ranger Academy

Explore the trails at Government Canyon with a ranger and earn your Junior Ranger badge.

Take a hike, make wildlife observations, use magnifiers to search for decomposers, and learn to Leave No Trace as we complete activities that will result in young rangers being sworn in as TPWD Junior Rangers. We’ll walk less than one mile and work together on activities in our journals. Parts of the program will be in the Pavilion, and part will occur on the trail.

Who Is Invited: 

All ages welcome, but this activity is best for 6-12 year-olds. Minors must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. No pets please.

This activity is limited to the first 20 children whose families check in with the Ranger. Additional children will have an opportunity to work on their own with their families and meet the Ranger after the program to be sworn in. 

This is a public program intended for families. If you would like to bring a group for a program at Government Canyon, please contact the Park Interpreter at Lisa.Cole@tpwd.texas.gov to schedule at a different time. 

Where to Meet:

This activity meets in the Picnic Pavilion, near the Visitor Center. Lot A will be the closest parking. There is a paved path leading from the parking lot to the Pavilion, a distance of about 120'. The Pavilion is near an accessible restroom. We will take a short hike (less than 0.5 mile) on the Discovery Trail, which has a crushed granite surface.

How to Prepare:

Registration is NOT required for this activity, but please arrive a little early. Saturdays can be very busy and there is often a long line at the Fee Booth.

Though the event is free, entrance fees to the Natural Area do apply. We often fill to capacity. To ensure entrance and save time at the Fee Booth, please pre-purchase and print out a day pass. Day passes can be reserved beginning one month before the date of your visit.

Dress for hiking outdoors, in layers that can be added or removed as the weather changes. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. Bring at least 1 liter of water per person and a snack.

If ADA assistance is required, please request modifications using this form, or email accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov at least 2 weeks in advance.

Cancellation:

This program is weather-dependent and subject to cancellation. Check trail conditions by calling GCSNA's main office at 210-688-9055, or go to the GCSNA webpage, Instagram, or Facebook.