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
10:30 am – 12:00 pm Participants must be onsite by 10:30 am to participate Early arrival is recommended All equipment and instruction provided Equipment is limited. First come, first serve Learn the basics of canoeing and kayaking Wear water shoes (not flip-flops) and clothes that can get wet Length of excursions will vary Weather dependent …
11:00 am – 11: 30 am Join us for this Naturalist-led program exploring the American lotus, a native aquatic plant that thrives in our lake. Learn how this unique species supports wildlife, shapes wetland habitats, and cycles through seasonal changes. Meet at the Cowan Lake Nature Center. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp
1:00 pm – 1:30 pm Stop by the Cowan Lake 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
1:00 pm All participants go through instructions near the SUP HUT together starting at 1pm. We will continue additional water sessions throughout the afternoon to get everyone through. Arrive early to sign waivers and get fitted for lifejackets Learn the basics of stand-up paddle boarding Wear water shoes (not flip-flops) and clothes that can get …