HARRISBURG – Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) State Parks Director John Hallas has announced more than 35 programs highlighting the partnership between Girl Scouts USA and state park systems this month.
DCNR will host programs at 25 state parks Friday, Sept. 13 through Sunday, Sept.15 as a part of the 6th Annual Girl Scouts Love State Park weekend.
The weekend of events is a national initiative to connect Girl Scouts with unique outdoor experiences at their local state parks.
“We are excited to partner with Girl Scouts USA to engage Girl Scouts across Pennsylvania and help connect them to our wonderful state parks,” Hallas said.
“Girl Scouts help prepare young people for the future in so many ways, including creating their own outdoor adventures and developing a life-long appreciation for nature and the outdoors.
“I am hopeful that these programs help build stronger connections for young people interested in nature, as well as building new connections for scouts.”
This year’s program offers outdoor recreation programs such as archery, stand up paddle boarding, geocaching, and hikes; natural resource learning such as stream studies, wildflower walks, and animal investigations; active tours, including mill and museum tours. State parks are also looking to connect scout troops with volunteer opportunities.
Girl Scouts USA teaches scouts to discover, connect, and take action by participating in fun activities through the Girl Scout Leadership Experience:
- Discover that they can better solve problems and overcome challenges
- Develop leadership skills, build social bonds and are happier overall
- Become team players and care more about protecting our environment
Pennsylvania state parks have participated in Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend since the inception of the program in 2019.
Visit DCNR’s Web site for more information about Pennsylvania’s 124 state parks, and check out DCNR’s Calendar of Events for events on public lands.