About
,Ranger Roy is the evolution of over 30 years as a park ranger, teacher, environmental educator, and interpretation specialist.
Roy Simpson was first nicknamed “Ranger Roy” while coordinating an anti-litter campaign at Pinecrest Lake, California, where he was often found leading an entourage of young campers throughout the campground. Later, when working his first National Park Service job at Mount Rainier National Park, the name stuck when he started taking a lead role in children’s programs. Roy has always been young at heart and is gifted in working with kids of all ages.
Blessed with a successful career, Roy’s journey began with two terms abroad with the Peace Corps. His first assignment was working with Tuareg nomads in the Sahara Desert—he even owned his own camel named Lightning! He later served with his wife, Cristina, in Honduras where he helped develop Pico Pijol National Park and created his first teacher guide, going on to publish 7 more guides throughout his career.
He worked three seasons with the US Forest Service before progressing to the National Park Service at Mount Rainier NP, Chiricahua NP, Sequoia/Kings Canyon NP, and Tumacacori National Historical Park. Perhaps his most unique position was at the latter, where he took on the role of Padre Rojelio, a Fransiscan priest, to give living history presentations. He loved working with and is proud to have served with the NPS.
Roy and Cristina finally returned to the Pacific Northwest with their daughter, Cat, in 2008. Finding a home along the Oregon Coast, he took the position of Education Coordinator at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area in Newport, developing and implementing a comprehensive tide pool education program, as well as becoming a historical lighthouse keeper and guide.
Since retiring from federal service in 2014, Roy experienced medical circumstances that resulted in some vision loss and he is no longer able to drive. As a result, he needs your driving expertise during tours and experiences.
Roy currently volunteers with Oral Hull Park and Retreat Center for the Blind, Peace Village Summer Camp, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, the local Food Share, and serves on the Board of the Environmental Education Association of Oregon (EEAO). He also plays music (folk rock guitar, Irish bodhran drum, and sings barber shop) and explores the outdoors whenever possible. Once a ranger, always a ranger! He is always seeking to share his personal connection and love of nature with others. He looks forward to the opportunity to work with you and/or your group to help you explore and experience the beautiful Pacific Northwest!
Ranger Roy Simpson serving in our National Parks
Ranger Roy as Padre Rogelio to show you the way!
Tide Pool Education at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area