Program basics
Make tracks to the nearest state park, forest, trail, or recreation area and ask for a free Wisconsin Explorer booklet. Inside you'll find nature activities, scavenger hunts, games, hikes, and crafts to help you explore Wisconsin's great outdoors together.
Kids who complete the requirements will earn collectable state symbol patches. Don't just sit there - get out and start Solving Mysteries together!
Wisconsin Explorer program grows with kids
There are three age levels in the Wisconsin Explorer program (3-5 years, 6-8 years, and 9 years and up). Three themes help kids explore different parts of the great outdoors. With nine booklets, a three-year-old can begin the program this year and participate until age eleven without repeating a booklet.
Pick up a booklet and start exploring!
Wisconsin Explorer books are available at most state parks, forests and recreation areas. The program is designed and funded for each child to complete one booklet and earn one patch each year. To preview or download a booklet, visit the WI DNR website and select the cover that matches the age of your child.
For more information on the Wisconsin Explorer Program and the collectible patches, visit the WI DNR website.
Note from Laura: We completed our books for four years now and continue to enjoy learning about the outdoors and collecting the patches. Honey has even gone back through some of the books just for fun!
