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Just for Kids

The future needs adults who understand the natural world and know how to make wise environmental decisions. To become those adults, the kids of today must 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.

Attention 4th Graders!

Hey fourth graders! See America’s natural wonders and historic sites for free. 

Every Kid Outdoors Pass

It only takes one match...

Smokey Bear has been a member of our families since 1944. The purpose of the Smokey Program is to create and maintain public awareness, through the image of Smokey Bear, about the need to prevent unplanned, human-caused wildland fires.

Smokey Bear

Forests are our friends!

Woodsy has been America's environmental champion since 1970 and is most recognized for his wise request, "Give a hoot. Don't pollute." Caring, friendly, and wise, Woodsy Owl has his heart set on motivating kids to form healthy, lasting relationships with nature.

Give A Hoot

Natural Inquirer

The Natural Inquirer program provides free science education materials for PreK-12. Natural Inquirer resources are downloadable as PDF files! Many great resources, lesson plans, and activities for kids to do while they are at home. YAY!

Bee Inspired

Go outside, discover

Your Forest is Ready Make the forest part of your family's story.

Discover

Every Kid Outdoors

Start your adventure now! There is so much nature out there to be explored.

Play Now

Agents of Discovery

An educational tech platform & app that gets youth active, engaged and learning about the world around them.

Discover More

Junior Snow Ranger

The Junior Snow Ranger program is designed for children in the 4th and 5th grade.

Junior Snow Ranger

Junior Forest Ranger

The Junior Forest Ranger program is an exciting way for young people to explore their national forests and grasslands.

Junior Forest Ranger

Last updated March 26th, 2025