What Ranger Rick is and how the subscription works

Ranger Rick is a monthly nature and wildlife magazine published by the National Wildlife Federation for children ages 7 to 12. When you subscribe, you receive a printed magazine delivered to your home each month, typically arriving around the middle of the month. The magazine contains stories about animals, outdoor activities, photography, puzzles, and educational content about conservation and nature.

A subscription lasts for one year and renews automatically unless you cancel before the renewal date. You pay upfront for the year, and the publisher sends your magazines on a regular schedule. If you want to stop receiving issues, you need to contact the publisher directly to cancel — the subscription will not end on its own.

Key Takeaways

  • Ranger Rick is a monthly magazine for children ages 7 to 12 that focuses on wildlife, nature, and outdoor learning.
  • A one-year subscription costs less per issue than buying individual copies at a newsstand, though the exact price varies by promotion.
  • Magazines arrive by mail each month, and your subscription renews automatically each year unless you cancel in advance.
  • You can cancel your subscription at any time by contacting the National Wildlife Federation's customer service.
  • The magazine includes interactive content like puzzles, games, and photography alongside educational articles about animals and conservation.

What comes in each issue

Each month's Ranger Rick contains feature articles about specific animals or ecosystems, written and illustrated for a young audience. Recent issues have covered topics like wolves, coral reefs, endangered species, and seasonal wildlife. The magazine also includes a section called "Ranger Rick Cub," which is designed for younger readers within the age range.

Beyond articles, each issue has puzzles, games, a comic strip, photography galleries, and a section where young readers can submit their own nature photos or drawings. The back pages often feature outdoor activities or projects kids can do at home or in their community. Some issues include a poster or other insert.

How to start a subscription

You can start a Ranger Rick subscription through the National Wildlife Federation's website or by calling their customer service line. When you order, you will need to provide a mailing address where the magazines should be sent. The subscription does not have to be for yourself — you can order it as a gift for a child.

Subscriptions typically begin with the next available issue after your order is processed. If you order mid-month, your first magazine may arrive in the following month. The publisher will send you a confirmation with your subscription details and the expected start date.

Subscription cost and payment

The price of a one-year Ranger Rick subscription varies depending on current promotions and whether you are a new or returning subscriber. The National Wildlife Federation regularly offers discounted rates for first-time subscribers. You pay the full subscription price upfront when you order, not monthly.

The cost per issue is lower when you subscribe than when you buy individual copies at a store. If you have a membership with the National Wildlife Federation, you may receive a discount on the subscription price. Check the website or call customer service to see what rates are currently available.

How renewal and cancellation work

Your subscription automatically renews for another year when your current subscription ends, unless you cancel before the renewal date. The publisher will charge your payment method on file for the renewal. You will receive a notice before the renewal date, which gives you time to cancel if you do not want to continue.

To cancel, contact the National Wildlife Federation's customer service by phone or through their website. You can cancel at any time, even if your subscription has just started. If you cancel after the renewal has already been charged, you may be able to request a refund depending on how recently the charge was made — ask customer service about their refund policy.

Digital and gift options

The National Wildlife Federation offers Ranger Rick primarily as a printed magazine subscription. Some back issues or selected content may be available online, but the main subscription is a physical magazine delivered by mail. If you are looking for digital-only options, check the publisher's website to see what online content is currently available.

Ranger Rick subscriptions make common gifts for children interested in nature and wildlife. You can purchase a subscription as a gift and have it sent to someone else's address. Some gift subscriptions come with a special gift announcement card. When ordering a gift subscription, provide the recipient's mailing address and any message you want included.

What to do if magazines do not arrive

If you do not receive a magazine when you expect it, contact the National Wildlife Federation's customer service. They can check whether the issue has been mailed and provide tracking information. If a magazine is lost in the mail, the publisher can often send a replacement copy.

Make sure your mailing address is correct in your subscription account. If you have moved, update your address with customer service before your next issue ships. Address changes usually take effect within one or two billing cycles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I give a Ranger Rick subscription as a gift?

Yes. You can order a subscription to be sent to someone else's address and include a gift message. The subscription will start with the next available issue after your order is processed. Gift subscriptions work the same way as regular subscriptions and renew automatically unless canceled.

What age is Ranger Rick for?

Ranger Rick is designed for children ages 7 to 12. The magazine includes a section called Ranger Rick Cub for younger readers on the lower end of that range. The content, vocabulary, and activities are written with this age group in mind.

Can I cancel my subscription anytime?

Yes, you can cancel at any time by contacting the National Wildlife Federation's customer service. If you cancel after your renewal has been charged, ask about their refund policy — you may be able to get money back depending on how recently the charge was made.

How long does it take to receive my first magazine?

Your first magazine typically arrives within one to two months after you order, depending on when in the month you subscribe. The publisher will send you a confirmation with an expected start date. Magazines arrive around the middle of each month once your subscription is active.

Is there a digital version of Ranger Rick?

The main Ranger Rick subscription is a printed magazine. Some content and back issues may be available online through the National Wildlife Federation's website, but the primary subscription is physical magazines delivered by mail. Check their website for details on what digital content is currently available.