9:00 pm – 9:30 pm Meet at the Cowan Lake 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
10:00 am – 11:00 am Join us for a fun and unique paddling program as we explore the basics of sailing kayaks. Participants will learn how wind, water, and balance work together to help move a kayak across the lake. We’ll cover basic safety, paddling skills, steering and how to use a small sail to …
11:00 am – 12:00 pm Join us for a fun and unique paddling program as we explore the basics of sailing kayaks. Participants will learn how wind, water, and balance work together to help move a kayak across the lake. We’ll cover basic safety, paddling skills, steering and how to use a small sail to …
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Join us on a short, guided hike to learn how to identify trees, while uncovering how different species support wildlife and shape the landscape around you. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater near the boat ramp. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
Join us for a kayak and canoe program designed to teach basic paddling skills, water safety, and confidence on the water while exploring the natural beauty of the lake. Participants will learn how to safely enter and exit a boat, hold and use a paddle, steer, stop, and move efficiently though the water. As we …
2:30 pm – 3:30pm Join us on the water for an introduction to stand up paddle boarding. Participants will learn basic paddling skills, balance techniques, water safety, and how to safely get on and off the board. This program is a great way to build confidence on the water while enjoying the lake from a new …
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Join us for a guided exploration of the lake’s shoreline as we discover the plants, wildlife, and other natural features that make this unique habitat so dynamic. Meet at the Campground Amphitheater near the boat ramp. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
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
7:30 pm – 8:30 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 Campground Amphitheater near the boat ramp. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
9:00 am – 10:30 am Join us for a ~1-mile guided hike on Lakeview and Beechnut trails. Learn about wildlife and park history on the way. Meet at the Commissary. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp