Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rhode Island Great Outdoors Pursuit?

The Rhode Island Great Outdoors Pursuit is a summer-long program to help reconnect children and their families with the great outdoors and to encourage physical activity in Rhode Island’s state parks and natural areas

How does it work?

All that is needed to play is a team with a minimum of two people (with one adult 18 years or older and one child under 18) and a desire to have a great time!
To begin, sign up here to register so you can download and print your Rhode Island Great Outdoors Pursuit Passport for each child under 18. Collect stickers at participating events and locations - some are guided events led by DEM and partners, while others teams can do on their own at specific locations. Check out the Events page to view the list of challenges.

How do I win prizes?

Teams walk, hike, bike, paddle and explore some pretty cool places in Rhode Island’s state parks and natural areas as DEM staff and partners lead the way. Your child will earn a sticker for each event or challenge in which they participate. The number of passport stickers earned determines which prizes teams can qualify to win. We may also raffle other great prizes along the way. At the end of the season, simply upload your passport by August 25 to a link that we’ll email to participants in August. The number of stickers that you earned will determine which of our raffles you’ll be entered into. View the award levels.

How much does it cost?

Most activities are FREE thanks to the generous support of our sponsors! At some events, vendors may offer activities which may include a fee or charge admission.

Who can participate?

Anyone can participate but only children under 18 can collect stickers.

How many events do I have to attend?

As many as you want! You don’t need to attend all the events, but remember the number of stickers you earn determines the raffle level(s) you'll be entered into at the end of August. Also, DEM may provide other incentives for earning a certain number of stickers.

What should I take to the events?

Please bring your passport to all events. View the event calendar for details on what to bring for each event, but here are a few suggestions that you should always consider:

• Dress in layers for maximum comfort.
• Wear sturdy footgear.
• Pack a hat, sunscreen and bug repellant.
• Bring enough water for each member of your team to stay well hydrated.
• Pack a lunch and snack foods. Food facilities are not available at all DEM parks and food may not be offered at all events.
• Consider bringing a camera to capture your Teams adventures and share online on our Facebook page.
• DEM parks are carry-in-carry-out. Please bring a trash bag and help keep our State's parks the way you find them.

What if I lose my Great Outdoors Passport?

If you lose your passport, you may download another. However, we do not track attendance or stickers earned so you will not be able to receive stickers for past events.

What if it rains on a scheduled event day?

Events are held rain or shine. In case of severe weather, please contact the park directly on the day of the event, visit the Events page of the Great Outdoors Pursuit website, or follow facebook and twitter for updates.