The following interpretive programs have been announced forParkerDamState Parkfor Aug. 10–12.
Friday, Aug. 10
Intro to Backpacking
1 p.m. – Beach House steps
It can be a daunting thought. Hiking with everything you will need to spend days, weeks or even longer out on the trail. But backpacking, especially with today’s equipment, can be a much more comfortable and very rewarding experience.
You can get a hands-on look at some of the modern backpacking equipment that is available and learn more about planning an outing, as well as your chance to give backpacking a try with minimal investment.
Roosevelt’s Tree Army
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
In 2013, it will be 80 years since the beginning of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Their legacy lives on in the many parks and recreation areas that we use today. Learn more about the CCC, their American Experience and what the program accomplished across theU.S.
Saturday, Aug. 11
Gold Medal Olympics
Sponsored by the Friends of Parker Dam
1 p.m. – Beach; $1 Fee to Participate
Children of all ages can come and join some friendly competition and celebrate that Pennsylvania State Parks are a gold medal winning park system. Various age groups will compete in games, such as beanbag toss, crab race, spoon relay race, fun-noodle toss and scavenger hunt. Prizes will be awarded.
Camp Cooking
6 p.m. – Beach House steps
Hot dogs and mountain pies are good but will only get you so far along the scale of culinary delight. Learn about more creative and delicious ways to impress your taste buds while cooking at your campsite. There will be some samples for you to try, and recipes to take back and try for yourself.
Explore the Night Sky
8:30 p.m. – Beach House
You may wonder where and when to be looking to the night sky for things like meteor showers, planets, constellations or other objects. We can show you how to start. You’ll learn tips for night sky viewing when to plan outings, places to go that provide great views of the sky and what to take with you to enhance your experiences.
Sunday, Aug. 12
Habitat Games
2 p.m. – Beach House steps
Wildlife needs a habitat. Some use a forest, others a field, still others, a lake. Learn about what makes a good habitat and about some of the animals that we might find in the varied habitats throughout the park. Be ready for running, tag and other games as we learn about wildlife and their habitats.
Perseid Meteor Shower
9 p.m. – Beach House steps
It happens each year at this time and you can watch and learn about why. Also learn the best times and locations to view this shower and other night sky events during the year.