City of Gainesville Parks and Recreation Junior Naturalist Program

Rising 7th-12th graders are eligible to apply for the Junior Naturalist Program. Junior Naturalists volunteer from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. for one-week camp sessions and assist with camp activities. Additional volunteer opportunities are available for special events and programs throughout the year.

• Fill out the 2026 Junior Naturalist Application. Applications close Friday, March 13!
• In order to participate, candidates must complete an application each year. Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance into the program. Applicants will be interviewed, and successful candidates must attend an orientation on Saturday, June 6 to participate in the program.
• Junior Naturalists who have volunteered previously may apply to volunteer for multiple sessions. First year JNs are eligible for just one session.

2026 Camp Schedule:
Session 1: Game ON! (June 8-12)
Session 2: Game ON! (June 15-18)
Session 3: Let’s Celebrate! (June 22-26)
Session 4: Creative Creatures Camp (July 13-17)
Session 5: Creative Creatures Camp (July 20-24)