Just for Kids
The future needs adults who have an understanding of the natural world and know how to make wise environmental decisions. In order to become those adults, the kids of today have to spend time outdoors playing and learning. Parents, teachers and youth leaders fill a vital role in providing enjoyable and educational outdoor opportunities for children and youth.
National forests are the ultimate "outdoor classroom," with natural processes and human activities interacting in all sorts of interesting ways.
The Forest Service wants to encourage more kids to go outdoors by having fun, being healthy and learning more about nature. This can instill awareness in young people, who may then value public lands, seek careers in natural resources and land management, and enthusiastically participate in outdoor activities.
Kid-friendly Locations on National Forests in California
Attention 4th Graders!
Hey fourth graders! See America’s natural wonders and historic sites for free
Available for: US 4th graders, including home-schooled and free-choice learners 10 years of age, with a valid Every Kid Outdoors paper voucher
- Step 1: Get a paper voucher by visiting the Every Kid Outdoors website and following the instructions.
- Step 2: Exchange a printed voucher for the Annual 4th Grade Pass at federal recreation sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees (day use fee). Find a location to pick up this pass at a federal recreation site.
Quick Links
- Nature Watch
- Junior Forest Ranger Activity Book
- Career Opportunities
- Discover the Forest
- Forest Service Kids
- Junior Forest Ranger Program
- Woodsy's ABC's
Woodsy Owl - Lend a Hand, Care for the Land
Smokey Bear - Only You Can Prevent Wildfires