Events

Speed, strength, agility and personality, all in one tiny package. Hummingbirds, though they weigh less than an ounce, are incredibly impressive creatures. From their beautiful metallic feathers to their rapid wingbeats to their specialized beak, these little birds have tons of interesting and unique qualities. Registrants must be accompanied by a chaperone for the duration of the program; a maximum of one chaperone per child. Space is limited. Pre-registration required.

Outdoor enthusiasts ages 12 to 14 will spend the week in nature exploring the natural world and learning basic wilderness survival skills. Each day will include a hike and digging deeper into a different aspect of survival. Activities may include fire building, wild edibles, water filtration, and navigation skills. Discover the importance of teamwork during daily “initiative” challenges and activities. The week will also include an off-site hiking trip and tandem kayaking experience. Registration is limited to 18 campers.

Children ages 6 to 8 will learn about animal adaptations, explore aquatic life in Paxton Creek and enjoy a live animal presentation. Each day will focus on a new, fun topic about our local plants and animals and include nature themed activities and crafts. Please register for only one week. Registration limited to 20 campers. 

This adventurous wellness program is geared for those interested in learning how to kayak. Enjoy approximately six miles of easy paddling for approximately two hours on the normally gentle, tree lined Swatara Creek. This guided two-hour evening paddle will let you discover firsthand why many are getting involved in this healthy life-long hobby. Guides will provide kayak skill instruction before and during the trip. Participants should be in moderate physical condition and prepared to be physically active. Everything is provided including kayaks, equipment, shuttle, guides, and safety instruction. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Participants must be at least 6 years of age to participate. Participants between ages 6-9 years old must be in a 2-person kayak with a responsible adult. A parent or other responsible adult must participate in the program. No one under the age of 18 can participate without a participating parent, adult family member, or guardian. Adventure Awaits programs are supported by Visit Hershey & Harrisburg Adventure Trail.

Develop your inner artist by creating a uniquely painted glass jar or pair of wine glasses! In this creative painting workshop, participants will choose from a selection of glass jars (with lids) or wine glasses to paint. Local artist Chris Pettman will have lots of painting design ideas, so everyone will have their own unique jar when finished. Chris even has templates available for those who are just beginning painters. For ages 6 -adult. Pre-registration is required, and class size is limited. This is a Park Rx program sponsored by Highmark Blue Shield.

African dance and drum reduce stress and anxiety, build self-esteem, and assist with weight loss. This energy-filled class provides an opportunity to experience West African culture through learning traditional dance movements accompanied by live music, using traditional drums. Advance registration is required. Space is limited.

Join us for a FREE concert at Fort Hunter Park - Central PA Friends of Jazz Present Third Stream! Dauphin County Parks & Recreation is excited to offer a summer of fun events for the whole family with our Sunset Music & Movie Series! These events are free thanks to our Presenting Sponsors, Veolia and Dauphin County Drug & Alcohol Services along with our Event Sponsor, Ollies. Sarah's Creamery Ice Cream Truck will be on-site with sweet treats, including Penn State Creamery Ice Cream.

All first-time hunters and trappers must complete Basic Hunter-Trapper Education before they can purchase a PA hunting or trapping license. This is a six-hour training class required by law for all first-time hunters and trappers before they can buy a license. You must pass a certification exam at the end of the class to complete this training. The Basic Hunter-Trapper Education In-Person Course is offered free of charge to anyone age 11 and older

Often thought of as the uninvited guests at summer functions, ants actually play a vital role in their ecosystems. Join a Naturalist to read about ants, make a craft and conduct an ant field study while learning about the scientific method. Registrants must be accompanied by a chaperone for the duration of the program; a maximum of one chaperone per child. Space is limited. Pre-registration required.

Songbirds have fascinated people for thousands of years, inspiring art, music, science, and even engineering! Join Naturalists at Wildwood Park for a Pennsylvania Songbird Workshop featuring the newly revised Pennsylvania Songbirds K-8 Guide. During this hands-on workshop, we will explore bird biology, adaptations, and migration; discover how birds influence design and engineering; and examine issues that affect both birds and people, such as land use and climate change. The workshop will also include bird identification and a short hike to discover the many species of birds that can be seen at Wildwood Park. PA Songbirds is coordinated by DCNR - Bureau of State Parks. This guide was developed in partnership between PA DCNR - Bureau of State Parks and Audubon Mid-Atlantic. This workshop is for any educator interested in birds and teaching through place-based education such as classroom teachers, non-formal educators, college students studying to be teachers (pre-service), school administrators, homeschool teachers, and youth leaders.