2026 Junior Ranger Session #1

1. July 10th – INTRODUCTION TO JUNIOR RANGERS at Pittsfield State Forest Ski Lodge. Learn about the Junior Ranger program, participating parks, and how to complete activities to qualify for Junior Ranger patch and certificate. (mandatory session)
What is the Junior Ranger program?
Junior Rangers program is a fun way for children to get acquainted with the state parks and outdoor recreation skills, while discovering the natural and cultural resources of the region.
Over a seven-week period, a total of seven different program sessions will be led collaboratively by DCR Park Interpreters Bob Rando, Mike Whalen, Caroline Scully, Misa Chappell, Ruby Pullaro-Clark and Meshell Bordeleau. Children will participate in hikes, park projects, nature crafts, wildlife observation, navigational techniques and more!
The Junior Ranger program:
captures the imagination of young people through fun activities that grow future stewards of the environment. State park staff supervised. Junior Ranger activities promote outdoor recreation skills and an appreciation of the natural world with a different theme each week. Children must wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Sturdy walking shoes, water, a snack, sunscreen and bug spray are recommended. Parents and/or guardians are required to participate.
Each 2026 Junior Ranger program session visits either Pittsfield State Forest, Mount Greylock State Reservation, Natural Bridge State Park, or Savoy Mountain State Forest. For more information, please contact Mike Whalen at (413) 499-4262.
CONTACT INFORMATION for each participating park is listed below, along with the specific dates and locations for each of the seven Junior Ranger sessions. Junior Ranger sessions will run from 10am to 12 noon on consecutive Fridays.
Session #1 on July 10th and Session, Session #4 on July 31st and Session #7 on August 21st and will be held at: Pittsfield State Forest Ski Lodge, 1041 Cascade Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201 and Balance Rock State Park, Balance Rock Road, Lanesborough (July 31st).
Phone: (413) 442-8992 - Please call for directions.
Session #2 on July 17th and Session #5 on August 7th will be held at: Mount Greylock State Reservation Visitor Center, 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA 01237
Session #5 on August 7th will be held at: Mount Greylock State Reservation Sperry Road Campground. Please call for meeting location and directions.
Phone: (413) 499-4262 - Please call for directions. Michael.W.Whalen@mass.gov