Junior Ranger Club

The Junior Ranger Club is a fun way to learn more about the Portage Park system and earn an official Junior Ranger shield as a wildlife steward. The Junior Ranger Club is an activity-based program offering eight different badges that can be earned by completing specific activities.

1. Arts
2. Endurance
3. Health
4. History
5. Nature
6. Science
7. Service
8. Survival

After earning each of these badges, Junior Rangers will be sworn in and receive an official Junior Ranger Shield and achievement certificate. Junior Rangers will also be invited to the annual Ranger Training Camp to learn new skills with park rangers and other nature experts. Junior Rangers are typically between the ages of 5 to 13, although people of all ages can participate. The program gives kids and their families the opportunity to uniquely explore and learn about the park system, as well as how to protect the park system now and into the future. 

Let’s Get Started!

1. Check with your parents and register as a Junior Ranger “apprentice.”  Complete the registration form and download and complete the Release of Liability form.
2. Download and complete each of the required activities to earn the eight badges. When you have all the activities completed for a badge, email, deliver or mail the completed activities to:  
   Junior Ranger Club Email:  JrRangerClub@portagemi.gov
      Portage Parks & Recreation
      320 Library Lane
      Portage, MI 49002
3. After a Portage Park Ranger reviews your materials, your new badge will be mailed to you. Each badge has an easy iron-on backing to apply to a ball cap, backpack, or other items to display your achievements. 
4. After the final badge is earned, you will receive an invitation to attend a swearing-in ceremony to receive your Junior Ranger Shield and certificate of achievement.

Do you have what it takes to be a Junior Ranger? Show us your skills and become a wildlife steward for the Portage Parks! Questions? Call 329-4522.