Events

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 …

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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 …

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2:00 pm All participants go through instructions near the SUP HUT together starting at 2pm. We will continue additional on water sessions to get everyone through. Must be onsite at the beginning of instruction to participate. Arrive early to sign waivers and get fitted for lifejackets Learn the basics of stand-up paddle boarding Wear water …

Read more "Stand-Up Paddle Board"

3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Join us to learn about local amphibians and reptiles on a short, guided hike, where we’ll search for them and explore their habitats, with a chance to meet some of our wildlife ambassadors up close. Meet at the Cowan Lake Nature Center. Park Naturalist: Kaia Heitkamp

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm 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 …

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1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Go behind the scenes and discover what it takes to care for birds of prey. Participants will learn about daily raptor care, safe handling routings, feeding, enclosure upkeep, and the specialized equipment used in falconry and educational bird programs. We’ll also explore how falconry equipment is made from leather crafting, …

Read more "Raptors – Behind the Scenes"

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Meet us at the Nature Center as we step into the legendary world of Robin Hood, the skilled archer of Sherwood Forest known for courage, adventure, and helping others. Participants will learn basic archery safety, proper shooting form, and target practice skills while connecting this timeless outdoor activity to one …

Read more "Archery – Robin Hood Style"