Lakeshore Launches Free Junior Park Ranger Program this Summer

The Municipality of Lakeshore is launching a new Junior Park Ranger program, a free summer offering that gives kids and youth the chance to explore local parks through games, guided discovery, and outdoor learning ahead of the Lakeshore Parks Concert Series running throughout July and August. 

Drop-in sessions are open for kids ages 5 to 14 and will run from 6:00 to 7:00 PM on the following dates:

• July 17 at Leffler Park (405 Old Tecumseh Road, Lakeshore) 
• August 7 at Lakeview Park (535 Lakeview Dr, Belle River) 
• August 14 at Millen Park (1925 S Middle Rd, Woodslee) 
• August 21 at Lakeview Park (535 Lakeview Dr, Belle River) 
• August 28 at Stoney Point Community Park (800 Comber Sideroad, Stoney Point) 

Each session will include games, a guided park tour, and a Junior Park Ranger Challenge that helps participants learn about nature, park safety, and how to protect and respect our parks. 

"We are proud to introduce the free Junior Park Ranger program as a new way for local kids to connect with Lakeshore's incredible parks and public spaces. It is an opportunity for participants to explore, learn, and build confidence while developing a deeper appreciation for how important parks are to our residents and communities." 
- Mayor Tracey Bailey 

Through the program, Junior Park Rangers will put Lakeshore's Respect and Protect Parks message into action, learning firsthand how small habits like disposing of waste properly and following park rules help keep these shared spaces clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. 

"This program will help teach our youngest residents how important it is to respect and protect our parks," added Mayor Bailey. "When young people understand why these spaces matter, and the time and resources needed to keep them safe, we hope they will carry that awareness with them and help us build a community that looks after its parks for generations to come." 

While the free program is drop-in, space is limited. Participants are encouraged to pre-register through ActiveNet. Families can learn more and pre-register online at Lakeshore.ca/ParkRanger. 

Each Junior Park Ranger session is also followed by a free Lakeshore Parks Concert at the same location, so families can stay for live music after the program wraps up. Check out the full line-up at Lakeshore.ca/ParksConcerts.