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 …
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. …
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, …
Learn about different kinds of kayaks and paddles and why they matter. Learn how to load and launch your boat properly. Practice paddling strokes and turning techniques. Learn different rescue maneuvers with our Watercraft Safety Crew. This program is geared for adults. Wear sturdy shoes (not flip flops) and clothes that can get wet. Boats …
Meet the Naturalist for a guided tour of the Nature Center, and a chance to meet some of our wildlife ambassadors up close. Learn about plants and wildlife you may see in the park. Meet at the Cowan Lake Nature Center. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp