City Of Rocks National Reserve

Young explorers ages 5-12 are invited to drop by our Junior Ranger Station for hands-on activities, games, and challenges that help them discover the park's natural and crultural wonders.  Kids can arrive anytime within the scheduled hour and a half to complete a Junior Ranger activity at their own pace.

Rangers are on hand to guide, encourage, and answer questions as children learn, create, and work toward earning their Junior Ranger recognition.  A fun, flexible program perfect for curious kids and families.

Step back in time and explore the stories that shaped our nation during this special series of ranger- led history hikes.  In honor of America's 250th birthday, park rangers will guide visitors along scenic trails whilse sharing tales of the people, events, and landscapes that influenced the region's role in our country's past.

Each hike blends natural beauty with engaging storytelling, offering a deeper look at the park's historic significance-from early settlement and exploration to local milestones that tie into the broader American Story.

These programs are designed for all ages and are a meaningful way to reflect, learn, and celebrate this milestone anniversary together.

Young explorers ages 5-12 are invited to drop by our Junior Ranger Station for hands-on activities, games, and challenges that help them discover the park's natural and crultural wonders.  Kids can arrive anytime within the scheduled hour and a half to complete a Junior Ranger activity at their own pace.

Rangers are on hand to guide, encourage, and answer questions as children learn, create, and work toward earning their Junior Ranger recognition.  A fun, flexible program perfect for curious kids and families.

Join a park ranger for a short, engaging look into the stories that make City of Rocks National Reserve & Castle Rocks State Park special.  During  Ranger Reveals, rangers share insights about the area's natural and cultural treasures-ranging from history and geology to wildlife, plants, and the landscape around us.  Each session is unique, and topics vary based on the ranger and what's happening in the park that day.  Perfect for curious visitors of all ages.

Kick off your summer weekends with Fishing Friday- our weekly, family-friendly fishing program held every Friday in June.  Kids and families are invited to join park rangers at the pond in Castle Rocks State Park to learn the basics of fishing, practice their skills, and enjoy time outdoors together.

Rangers provide guidance, answer questions, and help young anglers get set up.  A limited supply of fishing poles and bait is available to borrow at no cost, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm.

Great for beginners and fun for all ages.

Take aim and discover the fun of archery in this hands-on program led by park rangers in Castle Rocks State Park 3-D archery range.  During Archery with a Ranger, participants learn basic archery safety, equipment use, and proper shooting techniques in a supportive, family-friendly setting.

Rangers have limited gear-including bows and arrow.  You may also bring your own gear.  No prior experience is needed; just bring your curiosity and willingness to try something new.