Last updated: July 7, 2021
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Virtual Junior Ranger Summer Camp: Day 4—Kick Start to Summer
NPS Photo / C&O Canal NHP
Let's Get Outside! Let's Go Garden!
Surrounding yourself with nature and beauty is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. In this activity you will be invited to explore some natural splendor and then participate in an activity to grow your own flowers.Using the various plant guides below, get inspired by the diversity of colors, shapes, and smells of the different flowers that cover the C&O Canal, Washington, DC, the National Capital Area, or even your local park.
In the Seed-to-Plant activity, you can document your flower's journey from seed to flowering plant. Follow the directions and see how many different plant boards you can create and showcase.
Connect with us on social media and share your summer camp adventure by using the hashtags #CanalKidsVJR or #CanalKidActivities.
NPS Photo
Plants in the Park
Check out the many plants that you'll find along the C&O Canal towpath. Inspired by the Canal Association's Wildflower Guide, view plant species by location and mile post with this updated plant guide. View blooming periods and find out what you can take home with you, according to the 2019 Superintendent's Compendium. What's a wild ginger? Dwarf larkspur? A star chickweed? Click the link and find out! Download and print your own copy of this guide or view on your smartphone.
NPS Photo
DC Area Plant Guide
In this plant guide, explore plants you'll find on the towpath, pollinator plants, including flowers, shrubs, and trees. What are native plants? How do they help our environment? View beautiful photos and challenge yourself to see how many you can find! Download and print your own copy of this guide or view on your smartphone.
NPS Photo / Kristen Maxfield
National Capital Area Natural History Collections
The National Capital Area (NCA) of the National Park Service includes a rich cultural and natural history. Many sites include a diverse array of forests, mountains, and estuaries which support high levels of biodiversity in a narrow geographic range. Parks are located in the Valley and Ridge region and extend east to the Fall Line, which demarcates the Atlantic Coastal Plain. Discover the rich and beautiful natural history the NCA from the comfort of your home!
NPS Photo / Yellowstone National Park
Seed to Plant Activity
Looking for a fun and creative activity at home? Why not create a seed board from your natural surroundings? Check out how you can create your own seed board, identify seeds from different plants and extension activities as well, through this fun seed to plant activity.