2021 National Park Teen Ambassador Program

Our application for the 2021 National Park Teen Ambassador Program is now open!

Check out the information below. Follow us on Instagram @VNPambassadors or email teenambassadors@voyageurs.org to learn more or ask questions.

Who should apply?

• High school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or seniors in Minnesota

• 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

2021 Program Dates

***Important Update for 2021***

We are taking strong precautions to be as COVID-aware as possible, including social distancing, wearing masks, limiting group size, and keeping programming outside. We are keeping up with best practices and will update procedures as needed. Please note, this means we may need to make last minute changes to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your flexibility!

To maintain small group sizes, we will offer two trips - one for students around the Metro Area, and another for students in northern Minnesota.
Northern MN students: July 20-22
Metro students: August 17-20

Cost

Full scholarship funding is granted to accepted applicants. The program is limited to 10 participants on each trip.

Apply Today

Inquiries about the program can be sent to Community Outreach Coordinator at teenambassadors@voyageurs.org or call 612-333-5424. Follow us on Instagram to learn more about the program and ask questions! @VNPambassadors

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to me?

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

How long does the program last?

You will spend 3 or 4 days camping in Voyageurs National Park (July 20 - 22 or August 17-20), and will also participate in a civic voice workshop (see below).

Is transportation provided?

Yes. We will provide transportation from your region to Voyageurs National Park.

What do I need to bring?

When you are accepted into the program a packing list will be sent to you. 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, participate in team-building exercises, do journaling activities, cook over the campfire, make new friends, 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.

Do we sleep outside?

You’ll sleep in a 4-person tent, separated by gender.

Are there mosquitoes?

Yep.

Will I get wet?

Probably. We suggest you bring clothing that can dry quickly (not cotton) for this reason.

What is a Civic Voice Workshop?

The Civic Voice Workshop will help Teen Ambassadors learn how to protect the environment through public advocacy. Led by staff from the National Parks Conservation Association, these interactive workshops will work with Ambassadors to develop strategies and skills that will help translate their personal connections with nature into a message that hits home with public officials and influential community members. It is a skill set that they can apply to any issue that they are passionate about.