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Visit the Ottawa County Parks - Program and Events Calendar for
event details and registration.
Call the Nature Education
Center for more information: 616-786-4847.
 Do you know a 10-13 year old who is
interested in birds?
Sign them up for our summer Birding Camp!
June 15 • 9 am-4:30 pm
Registration required: bit.ly/birdingcamp2018
This camp is designed to
encourage kids to develop their enjoyment of birds by building their birding
skills and knowledge. Topics include identification, adaptations, migration and
conservation. Participants will become familiar with the common local birds of
a variety of habitats.
Binoculars and bird books
provided.
Led by naturalist and
long-time birder, Curtis Dykstra.
Fee is $30 per child, we recently modified this camp into a one day birding adventure!
The new playground area at Paw Paw Park (West) in Holland is complete!
If you haven't visited Paw Paw, the west side of the park has a picnic shelter with a grill nearby, new playground, trails, and river access.
The east side of the park has trails, scenic overlooks and bridges, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Dogs are welcome, but need to be leashed. More info: http://miottawa.org/Parks/pawpaw.htm
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Whistle of the Whip-Poor-Will
Introduce yourselves to this summer whistler of the moonlit woods! A short presentation at the Nature Center will be followed by a field trip to a few of its local haunts to experience this bird first-hand! Adults and children 12+ years.
Registration required.
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Stargazing at Hemlock Crossing
Join the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical (SAAA) for an informal night with the stars. Telescopes will be available. If you have them, bring binoculars and a lawn chair.
No registration required.
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Upcoming Programs/Workshops
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North Ottawa Dunes Through Hike
Hike the length of this 500+ acre park as you climb up and down through the backdune forest. We will eat lunch at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park before making the return hike.
Additional details will be emailed prior to the hike. Registration required
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Open House at the Weaver House
June 17, 1:00 PM- 3:00 PM at Pine Bend
Join us for an open house event at the Weaver House, built in 1901. Volunteers will be available to share historical information.
This event is hosted by the Friends of Ottawa County Parks.
No registration required.
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Wildlife Encounters - Kids! Turtles in a Nutshell
Get shell-shocked as you engage these armored creatures of our wetlands and woodlands. Why do they have shells and how do they use them? What species can be found in our area? Come and find out!
The Wildlife Encounter-Kids! series introduces children to wildlife found in our own yards, parks and region; includes activities, walk and craft. Program is geared for children ages 5-12 years. Children must be accompanied with an adult.
Registration required.
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 Fishing for Drum
Learn to catch big fish from shore! The freshwater drum is a hard-fighting native fish that eats invasive species like zebra mussels and round gobies. Also known as "sheephead", the drum is related to prized saltwater species like redfish and seatrout.
Michigan Sea Grant Fisheries Biologist and Educator, Dan O'Keefe will lead participants in learning drum biology and how to catch them! Additionally, you'll learn how to clean and cook this tasty fish.
Bring your own fishing equipment and a valid Michigan fishing license (youth under 17 years of age do not need a license). A limited number of loaner rods will be available if you do not have your own.
You may also wish to bring sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and bottled water.
Adults and Children 13+ years
Registration required.
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Ecotherapy & Being Present
Have you ever carried work/home stresses with you into the woods? Join us as we explore mindfulness techniques and how intentional hiking can bring the calmness of the forest home.
Registration required.
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