Redwood National and State Parks - A Park Ranger Finds His Park When Young People Find Their Park

Liam, an interpretive park ranger at Redwood National and State Parks, shares insights from interviews with young visitors about their feelings and experiences in national parks. The visitors express a deep connection to nature, a sense of adventure, and the peace they find in these natural spaces. They highlight the life-changing impact of stepping away from urban life and embracing the beauty and mystery of national parks.

What role does Liam have at Redwood National and State Parks?

• Park Manager

• Interpretive Park Ranger

• Tour Guide

• Wildlife Biologist

What feeling do young visitors often experience when they first enter a national park?

• Boredom

• Nostalgia

• Confusion

• Fear

According to the young visitors, what is a benefit of being in a national park?

• Shopping opportunities

• Watching TV

• Being surrounded by nature

• Access to Wi-Fi

What do visitors feel when they step away from cities and into nature?

• A sense of mystery and adventure

• A sense of boredom

• A sense of danger

• A sense of loneliness

What emotion is commonly felt by visitors when they see the brown sign of a national park?

• Anxiety

• Disappointment

• Indifference

• Excitement