Out of thousands of entries, 9-year-old Kamdon from Napavine is one of just 20 kids nationwide to advance in the 2025 National Jr. Ranger Competition.
In fact, at one point on Wednesday afternoon, he was in first place. Voting continues until 7 p.m. Thursday.
Hosted by Jeff Corwin, the National Jr. Ranger Competition is for kids ages 4 to 12. Prizes for the winner include a chance to earn $20,000, appear in a Ranger Rick magazine and support the National Wildlife Federation, according to the Junior Ranger website.
Now he needs votes to reach the top 15 before the second round of voting ends at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 5.
“Kamdon, a lifelong trail lover and aspiring park ranger, has advanced to the next round of the 2025 National Jr. Ranger Competition. This is a nationwide contest recognizing young environmental leaders and outdoor adventurers,” Heather Spears wrote to The Chronicle. “Kamdon’s story is truly one of early passion — he was on the trail at just a week old and summited his first peak on his own at age 4 … Kamdon embodies the spirit of Lewis County — adventurous, hardworking, and full of love for our forests and public lands.”
For more information, and to vote daily, visit https://jr-ranger.org/2025/kam-ee29.
This article will be updated.
