Spring is in the air, and the country’s 391 National Park Service sites are perfect places to get out and experience the beauty of the season. President Bush has proclaimed April 19 through April 27 as National Park Week and encourages everyone to enjoy the natural wonders and inspirational history in parks nationwide.

The theme of this year’s National Park Week is “Kids in Parks.” About 200 parks will commemorate the second annual Junior Ranger Day on April 26 with plenty of fun-filled activities and special events. A complete list of National Park Week and Junior Ranger Day activities is available at http://www.nps.gov/npweek.

“Our country’s national parks provide children with unparalleled
opportunities to have fun while learning something new,” said National Park Service Director Mary A. Bomar. “Free blacksmithing classes, fishing lessons, wildlife walks, night star parties, scavenger hunts, and reptile experiences are just a small sampling of Junior Ranger Day activities that will engage children physically, intellectually, and emotionally.”

The “Kids in Parks” theme will continue throughout the year as parks expand and improve youth-oriented ranger programs, educational exhibits and Junior Ranger activities. About 300 National Park Service sites have Junior Ranger programs which encourage children to “Explore-Learn-Protect” national parks. Parks award badges and certificates to those completing
the program and sometimes host swearing-in ceremonies.

In addition to seeing the wandering wildlife and spectacular scenery for which national parks are famous, visitors to many parks will also find something new. Many park now have new or
remodeled visitor centers, upgraded exhibits and new uses of technology such as podcasts and cellphone tours.

“I truly hope people will take part in National Park Week activities and continue to visit and enjoy these special places that connect us to our shared heritage and natural treasures,” Bomar said.

For additional information please contact Dave Barna, NPS, or Kathy Kupper, NPS, at (202) 208-6843.

Related Links:

President Bush's National Parks Week Proclamation: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2008/04/20080416-5.html

Secretary Kempthorne's Message on National Parks Week:
http://www.peoplelandandwater.gov/workingwithamerica/
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