Junior ACORNS

What do Junior ACORNS do?

Junior ACORNS attend programs led by our experienced volunteers and parks staff and earn points by completing volunteer projects, exploring our parks, and having fun! At the end of the year, Junior ACORNS are invited to join a celebration at the Interpretive Nature Center.

How do I become a Junior ACORN?

You can become a Junior ACORN by registering on the Genesee County Parks webpage. Complete the registration form by answering a few questions about yourself and why you want to be a Junior ACORN! Parents and guardians are welcome to help their child complete the form.

Registration will open in January 2026!

When are the Junior ACORNS Programs?

• Junior ACORNS Orientation and Trail Ranger Training is Saturday, March 14th 2026
• Check back soon to see the full 2026 schedule!

Do I need to attend all four of the Junior ACORNS programs?

No! You may not be able to attend every program throughout the year and that is okay! Your goal as a Junior ACORN is to earn 50 points in 2025. You earn points by attending programs, volunteering at the parks, or ACORNS events! There are lots of different types of activities—we hope that each Junior ACORN can find something that they are excited about.

What is the program fee?

The cost for participating in the Junior ACORNS program is $25 per child. This fee covers the cost of all programs! Junior ACORNS will receive a free hat, snacks during programs, and a coupon to attend a free Parks program.

There will be several Junior ACORNS programs scheduled in 2026. Save the date for Orientation and check back soon for the full schedule!

• Saturday, March 14th - Junior ACORNS Orientation and Trail Ranger Training

Junior ACORNS programs are held from 10AM – 1PM and meet at the Genesee County Park & Forest Interpretive Nature Center unless otherwise noted. Snacks will be provided! A parent or guardian, at least one adult per 5 youth, must accompany Junior ACORNS for the duration of each program.  

You may not be able to attend every program throughout the year and that is okay! Your goal as a Jr. ACORN is to earn 50 points throughout the year. You earn points by attending Junior ACORN’s programs, volunteering at the parks, ACORNS events, or attending parks programs! There are lots of different types of activities—we hope that each Junior ACORN can find something that they are excited about.

Since 2006 the Association for the Conservation of Recreational and Natural Spaces, Inc. (ACORNS), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization has been providing financial and volunteer support to the Genesee County Parks by connecting people with nature through outdoor learning, exploration, and fun! 

Your goal as a Junior ACORN is to earn 50 points in 2026. You earn points by attending Junior ACORNS programs, volunteering at the parks, ACORNS events, or attending parks programs! There are lots of different types of activities—we hope that each Junior ACORN can find something that they are excited about.