PENFIELD – The following program schedule has been released for the month of February for Parker Dam State Park.
Saturday, Feb. 9
Ice Fishing Basics:
10 a.m. – Beach House
Learn the basics to get started fishing the “hard water.” You will also learn how to be comfortable and safe while ice fishing on a frozen lake or pond. We have a variety of equipment examples for you to look at and some rods for you to practice your technique. If you are 16 years of age or older, bring your 2013 PA fishing license. Also, dress appropriately for the weather, including boots to keep dry.
Learn to Cross-country Ski:
1 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
(Note: There is a $3 fee for all participants of this program.)
You will have the opportunity to learn how to get strapped onto the proper sized equipment, why the skis work the way that they do, and then practice. We can also provide you with the equipment (limited number and sizes). We can provide equipment for children and youth as well.
Saturday, Feb. 16
Learn to Cross-country Ski:
10 a.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
(Note: There is a $3 fee for all participants of this program.)
Same beginner’s program as described for Feb. 9. This is another opportunity for you to get out in the snow and practice those cross-country ski skills.
Basics of Ice Hockey:
1 p.m. – Beach House
Because it is Hockey Weekend Across America, we will provide you with the skating basics and the rules of the game. We also have skates and a limited amount of equipment available to borrow. You will then have an opportunity to play this winter sport on Parker Lake.
Sunday, Feb. 17
Learn to Cross-country Ski:
11 a.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
(Note: There is a $3 fee for all participants of this program.)
Same beginner’s program as described for Feb. 9. It will be another opportunity to get out in the snow and practice.
Snowshoe Basics:
2 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
We’ll begin inside with a quick discussion on the history, types, parts of various snowshoes, appropriate clothing, and other preparations. Then we’ll head outside to try snowshoeing (if there’s snow). You’ll learn techniques for traversing up and down hills, along with other helpful hints to get you started. After a little practice, we’ll head out for a short hike through the park.
March is Maple Sugar season.
March is Maple Sugar Season at Parker Dam State Park and you can come learn how real maple syrup is made. These outdoor programs will be held each Saturday and Sunday throughout March (except March 30-31) at 2 p.m. Meet at the Sugar Shack, near Pavilion 7, just past the Cabin Road.
Note- Sledding, ice skating, and other winter activities at Parker Dam State Park:
When conditions allow, a sled riding area and an ice skating rink are maintained at the park.
Also, you can cross-country ski on three groomed trails (two loops) that total more than 5 miles, hike or snowshoe on nearly 17 miles of wintry trails, snowmobile out into the state forest, or participate in many other great winter activities.
Check the “Parker Dam State Park” Facebook page, the “Winter Report” at www.visitPAparks.com, or with the Park Office 814-765-0630 to learn of snow and ice conditions and the availability of facilities.
Access for People with Disabilities
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks:
888-PA-PARKS (voice)
717-558-2710 (local or international voice)
888-537-7294 (TTY)
717-558-2711 (local or international TTY)
711 (AT&T Relay Services)