Events

Did you know we have over 25 species of lightning bugs in Ohio? Join us to learn more about what kind of species we have and where to find them. Meet at the Nature Center. Park Naturalist: Erin Shaw

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 Campground Amphitheater near the boat ramp. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp

Meet at the Nature Center. Fireflies light up summer nights in Ohio, but many species are starting to decline or still undocumented. Learn how you can help scientists track fireflies from your own backyard through the Firefly Atlas citizen science project. We’ll discuss what to look for, how to observe responsibly, and how your observations …

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Meet at the Nature Center for a hands-on firefly observation activity. We’ll carefully catch, observe, and release lightning bugs while learning basic identification tips, safe handling practices, and why these glowing insects are important to healthy nighttime habitats. Park Naturalist: Erin Shaw

Registration for the Youth Fishing Derby starts at 8:00 am. Fishing starts at 9:00 am This special event is in partnership with Massie Township Bring your own pole or borrow one of ours Bring your own bait Bring lawn chairs and shade umbrellas The Youth Fishing Derby is for children under the age of fifteen. …

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Stop by the Nature Center to explore cool rocks and fossils at a touch table, learning how they formed and what they reveal about Earth’s history. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp

Join us for this Naturalist-led program to dive into the world of bugs. Meet at the Cowan Lake Nature Center. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp

Join us for a ~1-mile guided hike on Dogwood trail. Explore Cowan Lake’s woodlands and learn to identify wildflowers and other understory plants. Meet at the Nature Center. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp

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 Nature Center. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp

Join us for a canoe and kayak excursion as we observe birds along the shoreline from our boats. Learn why birding is important as we practice observation skills. Learn how to collect information for citizen science and wildlife research. This family friendly program is a fun way to explore the lake, practice basic paddling skills, …

Read more "Birding from Boats"