PENFIELD – Programs have been announced for July 6-16 at the Parker Dam State Park.
Thursday, July 6
Kayak Basics:
10 a.m. – behind Beach House
$3 fee per participant; pre-registration required.
You can learn the basics and enjoyment of kayaking during this intro level program. There are a limited number of kayaks available, including tandems. Register at the park office or by calling 814-765-0630.
Friday, July 7
Raptor Force:
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
With powerful beaks and razor-sharp talons, raptors are some of the most well-adapted predators around. To go with their graceful beauty, they have speed, acrobatics and precision on their side. You can come and learn more about why owls, hawks, falcons and eagles are masters of the sky.
Saturday, July 8
Owl Adaptations:
3 p.m. – Environ. Educ. Classroom
You can come inside and cool off as everyone discusses these nocturnal birds of prey and all of the interesting adaptations that they use to survive. Participants will also talk about the various owls found throughout Pennsylvania.
Golden Eagles – Parker Dam’s Secretive Winter Visitors, Guest: Keely Roen, PSU-DuBois
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
Penn State DuBois, through the regional Appalachian Eagle Project, has partnered with Parker Dam State Park to bring a camera “trap” to some likely golden eagle habitat. Using road-killed deer as bait, researchers discovered multiple golden eagles as well as many other beautiful and sometimes surprising winter visitors. You can come and learn why documenting the very secretive golden eagle is important and see some of our favorite pictures from the project.
Sunday, July 9
High Country Arts and Crafts Fair, at SB Elliott State Park
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Annual event sponsored by the Clearfield Elks featuring: arts and crafts vendors, demonstrations, entertainment, food, shuttles to and from the parking area and much more.
Friday, July 14
New Ski Trail Loop Hike:
7 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
You can join the park naturalist on this 1.5-mile trail on the newest cross-country ski trail. Varied habitats will be explored along the way.
Saturday, July 15
Bicycle Tour:
10 a.m. – outside Park Office
You can bring along your bike (and helmet if under 12) to travel Mud Run Road with stops to discuss the interesting areas and facilities.
Beach Games:
3 p.m. – Beach
You can learn to play games that don’t involve hand-held devices. Tag games and other exercise diversions will be taught. It is for ages 8 years and up.
Things Naturalists Do:
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
So, what are some of the quirky things that some outdoor enthusiasts do? Call crayfish and fireflies; coax butterflies; mess with moths? Yep. All that, and then some.
Sunday, July 16
Tea and Talk:
7 p.m. – Beach House steps
You can bring a mug to try some sweet fern/mountain mint tea grown right here in the park. Talk subjects are always open for discussion.