Reno’s parks are set to become a hub of activity for nature enthusiasts and budding rangers in 2026. The City of Reno has unveiled an exciting lineup for the Junior Ranger Program, designed to engage participants of all ages and abilities in educational and outdoor experiences.
From January to December 2026, the Junior Ranger Program will host two activities each month across six different parks in Reno. This initiative aims to foster a connection with nature and promote environmental stewardship through hands-on learning and skill development.
Participants can obtain a free Junior Ranger Guide from any City of Reno recreation facility or download it online. This guide serves as a passport for collecting stickers by completing activities led by park rangers. After collecting six stickers, participants will be honored in a swearing-in ceremony in January 2027, where they’ll receive their official Junior Ranger Badge.
The first event is scheduled for January 9, 2026, at Idlewild Park, where participants will learn birding techniques and observe various bird species alongside a City of Reno Park Ranger. All activities are free, though children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. While no RSVP is required, arriving on time is recommended since participation is first-come, first-served.
2026 Junior Park Ranger Program Schedule:
- Jan. 9, 8–10 a.m., Idlewild Park
- Jan. 24, 1–3 p.m., Mira Loma Park
- Feb. 4, 3–5 p.m., Mayors Park
- Feb. 21, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Huffaker Park
- March 4, 3–5 p.m., Paradise Park
- March 21, 1–3 p.m., Valley Wood Park
- April 18, 10 a.m.–noon, Mayors Park
- April 29, 3–5 p.m., Mira Loma Park
- May 16, 8 a.m.–noon, Paradise Park
- May 27, 3–5 p.m., Valley Wood Park
- June 13, 10 a.m.–noon, Idlewild Park
- June 24, 5–7 p.m., Huffaker Park
- July 18, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Valley Wood Park
- July 31, 10 a.m.–noon, Idlewild Park
- Aug. 22, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Mira Loma Park
- Sept. 12, 10 a.m.–noon, Huffaker Park
- Sept. 23, 3–5 p.m., Paradise Park
- Oct. 2, 4–6 p.m., Valley Wood Park
- Oct. 24, 6–8 p.m., Mayors Park
- Nov. 7, 8 a.m.–noon, Idlewild Park
- Nov. 18, 3–5 p.m., Mira Loma Park
- Dec. 12, 1–3 p.m., Paradise Park
To learn more about each event and the overall Junior Ranger Program, visit the City of Reno’s Parks Activities page.
Read More Here
