5:00 pm – 6:00 pm Team up in small groups, families, or pairs for a hands-on biodiversity challenge! Using identification apps like Seek or iNaturalist, participants will explore the area and record as many different species as they can find. Meet at the Cowan Lake Nature Center. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
7:30 pm – 9:00 pm Join us for an evening to explore the magical world of fireflies. Learn about their life cycle, glowing signals, and the role they play in local ecosystems. Meet at the Cowan Lake Nature Center. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
8:30 am – 9:30 am Join us lakeside for a relaxed birdwatching program where you can enjoy your own coffee while observing and learning about local bird species in their natural habitat. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater near the boat ramp. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
9:30 am – 10:30 am Join us for a canoe and kayak excursion as we observe birds along the shoreline from our boats. Learn why birding is important. Learn how to collect information for citizen science research. Fun for the whole family! Wear sturdy shoes (not flip flops). Boats (limited), gear and instruction are provided …
10:00 am – 11:30 am Join us for a ~2-mile guided hike on Lakeview trail. Learn about wildlife and park history on the way. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater near the boat ramp. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Join us for this Naturalist-led program to dive into the world of bugs. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater near the boat ramp. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
2:00 pm – 2:30 pm Think you can find the fastest isopod? Learn about Rolly-Pollys and search for your winning champion! Meet at the Campground Amphitheater near the boat ramp. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
9:30 am – 10:30 am Join us to learn about composting basics, local native and invasive species, and how to become a better land steward. The pace and activities adapt to the group and conditions making each experience unique. Optional: Stay afterward to join our volunteer crew for hands-on land management projects such as native …
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm Join us to discover how to identify different animal scats and tracks, followed by a short, guided hike to practice your skills in the field. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater near the boat ramp. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm Join us for a ~1-mile guided hike as we explore the woods through the five senses. Along this walk, we’ll pause for simple activities that help us experience nature in new and meaningful ways. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater near the boat ramp. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp