PENFIELD – Upcoming programs have been announced by the staff at Parker Dam State Park.
Tuesday, July 19
Full Moon Paddle
8:30 p.m. – behind Beach House
NOTE: There is a $3 fee for all participants of this program.
What better way to view the full moon than to do so in a kayak on a quiet evening lake. A limited number of kayaks are available. Reserve a kayak by stopping in or contacting the Park Office 814-765-0630.
Wednesday, July 20
Archery Basics
6 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
Come and learn the basics of archery, along with range rules and safety procedures. Practice the techniques that will make you a more consistent archer. Bows have a 15- to 25-pound pull; very small archers may have difficulty.
Friday, July 22
Nature Nut – Moths
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
It’s not uncommon to find someone who’s afraid of moths, but did you know that many moths are considered to be every bit as spectacular or more than the most beautiful butterfly? Enjoy this Nature Nut video and learn all about these interesting nighttime insects.
Saturday, July 23
A World of Animals
11 a.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
There are animals everywhere, but we must understand how they survive to appreciate each of them fully. Bring the kids for some activities that will help them recognize the value of every species they might encounter.
National Hot Dog Day Cookout
7 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
Bring your own hotdogs, buns, and condiments to celebrate National Hot Dog Day. Hot Dog lore will be shared, along with campfire comradery.
Things Naturalists Do
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
We know that State Park naturalists are a bit unusual, but what do they do for entertainment? Learn some of the activities that some of them do to get closer to nature.
Talking with Fireflies
9:30 p.m. – Pavilion 4
Catching fireflies may be one of your favorite pastimes and tonight we can all share in it together. Learn of the struggles this species faces today and how we can help; followed by calling to them.
Sunday, July 24
Story Time – Fireflies!
1 p.m. – Beach House
Meet for story time as we head to the small picnic area near the Beach House. This week’s story expresses the need to set something free in order to keep it. This story is best suited for children ages 4 to 10.
Natural Symbols Hike
3 p.m. – Ball Field
Are you familiar with Pennsylvania’s state symbols? State animal, state tree, state bird? Hike the Souders Trail as we seek out many of these species while enjoying the beauty of the trail. Please wear appropriate footwear.
Tea and Talk
7 p.m. – Beach House steps
Bring your own cup or mug (for hot beverages) and try some sweet fern/mountain mint tea grown right here in the park. Talk subjects are always open for discussion…come with some idea of what you’d like to know more about, learn, or share. Sunday evening Tea and Talk has been going on for many years; come be a part of the tradition.