Rangers from Big Bend Ranch State Park, the Barton Warnock Visitor Center and Fort Leaton State Historic Site partnered with the Alpine and Presidio public libraries this summer to introduce children to the region’s natural and cultural history through a week of interactive educational programs.
The “Unearth a Story – Exploration Week” program featured lessons on paleontology, archaeology, geology, fossils, artifacts and Indigenous cultures, giving children opportunities to explore the landscapes and history that define the Big Bend region.
Activities included simulated fossil digs, dinosaur-themed crafts, painted rocks and traditional pinch pot making. Park rangers also emphasized Leave No Trace principles and taught participants why preserving archaeological sites and artifacts is important in Texas state parks.
The week concluded with a pizza party at Fort Leaton State Historic Site, where Ranger Arian led additional activities and reinforced the importance of protecting the region’s historical and natural resources.
The collaborative program was organized by Big Bend Ranch State Park, Barton Warnock Visitor Center, Fort Leaton State Historic Site, the Alpine Public Library and the Presidio Public Library as part of their summer youth programming.
