Winter Jr. Ranger Camp at Shenandoah River State Park Offers Outdoor Fun for Kids This December

As the year winds down, Shenandoah River State Park is offering a unique way for kids to stay active, curious, and connected to nature with its Winter Jr. Ranger Camp. Scheduled for December 29 and 30, this special day camp is open to children ages 6 to 10 and runs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. each day.

Organized by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, the camp invites young nature lovers to explore the outdoors in winter, combining education with fun. For just $20 per camper, children will bundle up and dive into the wonders of the natural world during the colder months.

“Winter offers a whole different perspective on the environment,” said Megan Goin, Chief Ranger, Visitor Experience. “This camp helps kids see how animals adapt to the cold, how snow and ice form, and how weather shapes the world around them.”

The program is packed with hands-on activities, outdoor adventures, science investigations, and games. Campers will discover the secrets of winter survival in nature, investigate how snow and ice behave, and learn how to observe seasonal changes. Each child will come away with new knowledge—and the title of Winter Junior Ranger.

The camp is hosted at Shenandoah River State Park, located at 350 Daughter of Stars Drive, Bentonville, VA 22610. This scenic park, known for its sweeping views and riverfront trails, provides the perfect outdoor classroom for young explorers.

Pre-registration is required, and spots are expected to fill quickly. Families can find more information and register by scanning the QR code available on the official flyer below or by contacting the park directly at 540-622-6840.

This winter, give kids a chance to step away from screens and into the snowy forest for a few hours of discovery and adventure. For those ages 6–10, the Winter Jr. Ranger Camp offers the perfect blend of fun, learning, and fresh air.