Ranger Explorer Program

The Stark Parks Ranger Explorer program is an opportunity for young adults to experience real-life situations related to wildlife laws, natural resource enforcement, and the safety of the public. Ranger Explorers also learn a variety of career leadership and fitness skills.
The program offers men and women ages 15 to 20 the possibility to explore Stark Parks, trails, and lakes from the perspective of a Stark Parks Ranger. Learn about enforcing natural resource laws by patrolling parks with ride-alongs, bike patrol, and watercraft. Participants will get the chance to be a part of Stark Parks' programs and events by ensuring the safety of park patrons and promoting Stark Parks.
Meetings are held at least twice per month in addition to participating in events during the year.
Please contact the Public Safety Department office at 330.353.2377 for more information or fill out the interest form below.
Recent Posts
Happy Earth Day 2023! Officially recognized on April 22, Stark Parks will be hosting Earth Day events in April and throughout 2023. There are not too many things that every… More
Celebrate the fall season with this free, non-scary family event at two entrances of Sippo Lake Park on Oct. 21 from 2 to 6 p.m. Crafts, games, pumpkin party with… More
https://youtu.be/6Zl-aol9yLk Many of the plants and trees within Stark Parks are in their seed stage, which means it’s time to collect and clean these seeds. All are welcome to join… More
A new Stark Parks logo is being debuted to better reflect the park mission and create more consistency throughout the organization. The last true redesign occurred over 25 years ago when… More
The Stark County Park District Board of Park Commissioners is considering revisions to the Park District's Rules and Regulations. The Board is seeking public comments on the proposed revisions. Provided… More
Hike your way through the changing colors of Stark Parks as you check off your 2023 Stark Exploring passport. The annual Stark Exploring challenge runs from September 1st to December… More
Beginning in March 2023, Stark Parks crews will begin preparing areas at Tam O'Shanter Park for parking lot and driveway updates including removing and relocating trees and vegetation. Construction will… More
Think there's not much to see on the trail? Think again and look around! Enhance your park experience by learning how to identify trees no matter the season. The IdentiTree… More
Make the most of the shortest day of the year and ring in the winter season with a Winter Hike-a-Thon! On December 21, 2023, choose Stark Parks for your… More
Geocaching is a great way to explore Stark Parks year-round! Find the hidden caches at different park locations and collect 12 out of 15 code words to win a unique… More
Humble Beginnings (1960s and 1970s) The year was 1967. Although Ohio’s Department of Natural Resources had been established 18 years before in 1949, it was three years before the establishment… More