Children and families explore a bat-themed activity table during Junior Caver Day at Jewel Cave.
Wonder & Exploration Quarterly  - Fall 2025

From Crafts to Cave Science: Kids Discover Jewel Cave

Published On: September 15, 2025By

“Most kids don’t get hands-on with geology. Today, they did.”

Park rangers lead a Junior Caver program outdoors, clapping and engaging a group of children.
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Rangers at Jewel Cave National Monument led interactive Junior Caver programs celebrating 125 years of discovery.

Celebrating 125 Years of Discovery, with the next generation of explorers leading the way.

Children and volunteers examine bird nests, feathers, and field guides at a Junior Caver Day activity table.
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Junior Caver Day included nature discovery tables where kids learned about birds, nests, and wildlife up close.

Crafts, games, and geology made Jewel Cave an above-ground classroom for a day.

Close-up of hands holding a small bird nest during Junior Caver Day at Jewel Cave.
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Kids and families examined real bird nests and wildlife artifacts at Jewel Cave’s Junior Caver Day.

Earning a Junior Caver Patch or Junior Cave Scientist Badge is more than a souvenir. It’s a core memory that sparks a lifetime of advocacy for the parks.

Children and families explore a bat-themed activity table during Junior Caver Day at Jewel Cave.
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Junior Caver Day at Jewel Cave featured hands-on activities, from bat education to geology games for kids and families.

Thanks to our partners, volunteers, and donors for making this free event unforgettable.

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