2026 National Park Teen Ambassador Program

Experience Voyageurs National Park on a four night camping and padding trip this summer! Learn about wildlife, Indigenous astronomy, history and culture, conservation and outdoor career paths, and more. You will also enjoy camping under the stars, swimming with new friends, setting up camp and eating by the campfire, hiking, fishing, spotting wildlife and more. 

Who is the Teen Ambassador Program for?

• Indigenous youth ages 13-18

• Students who are excited about the outdoors, even if you have never camped before

• Students who are looking to explore outdoors careers and learn more about national parks and environmental stewardship

2026 Program Dates

Teen Ambassadors attend one of two trip options to Voyageurs National Park:

• July 8 - 12, 2026

• July 15 - 19, 2026

Cost

Full scholarship funding is granted to accepted applicants. We cannot accept all applicants.

Community Educators

Adult Community Educators share their unique knowledge  and skills with the group of youth who attend the wilderness trip. They assist with planning and recruitment and facilitate at least one formal lesson with the group during the trip. Community educators receive a fully supported trip, including meals, gear, and a stipend. If you know of someone interested in this role, please reach out to Moss Kupper, VC Education Coordinator, at mkupper@voyageurs.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to me?

If you are accepted into the program, you are given a full scholarship for the trip.

How long does the program last?

You will spend 5 days, 4 nights camping in Voyageurs National Park.

Is transportation provided?

We will provide transportation to Voyageurs National Park from selected pick up locations.

Do we sleep outside?

Yes! You’ll sleep in a 4-person tent.

What do I need to bring?

A full packing list will be provided. Don’t worry if you feel like you don’t have outdoor gear! There will be an opportunity to borrow necessary gear if you need it.

What do we do on the trips?

Lots of things! You will hike, camp, paddle, do service projects, talk to national park rangers, scientists, and Indigenous knowledge holders, participate in team-building exercises, do journaling activities, cook over the campfire, make new friends, swim, fish, and learn a lot about national parks and the environment!

Is any experience required?

We accept participants of all skill levels! We’ll teach you everything you need to know to have a great time.

PROGRAM PARTNERS

Funding for this project was provided in part by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources  Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources  (LCCMR).

The Trust Fund is a permanent fund constitutionally established by the citizens of Minnesota to assist in the protection, conservation, preservation, and enhancement of the state’s air, water, land, fish, wildlife, and other natural resources.

This program was made possible by a grant from the National Park Foundation through generous support of partners including Union Pacific Railroad and donors across the country.