Hungry Caterpillars
Ages 3 – 6
Introducing young learners to the fascinating life cycle of moths! Through interactive storytelling, hands-on activities, and a creative craft, children will explore the journey of a caterpillar as it transforms into a beautiful moth. They’ll also learn about the importance of caterpillars and moths in our ecosystem. This is a Tools to Trek program.
Registration deadline: Tuesday, August 19
Glass Fusing: Summer Wildflower Suncatcher
Ages 16 and up
Create a 4.5″ x 9″ suncatcher to highlight a late-blooming summer wildflower. Kathy Woodruff from Busy Beaver will provide the supplies. Beginners and returners are welcome in this unique class!
Registration deadline: Sunday, August 17
Young Birders Club Meeting
Ages 12 – 18
Kettering PRCA and Centerville-Washington Park District are collaborating to bring the joy of bird watching to our youth. Bird watching and identification is a fun and rewarding hobby and also a great place to make friends. Light snacks are provided. Participants must become members of the Ohio Young Birders Club and be between the ages of 12 and 18.
Program Code: 03-30240-C (registration through Kettering)
Butterfly Survey: August
Recommended for ages 8 and up
Help contribute to research by joining the naturalist on butterfly surveys. Identify and count butterflies while observing other seasonal wildlife as we stroll. No experience is necessary. Trail is approximately one mile in length on uneven terrain. This is a Tools to Trek program.
Registration deadline: Thursday, August 21
Goat Yoga at the Park
Ages 18 and up
Goat Country, LLC. will bring their adorable goats for a special program. Practice some classic poses while interacting with the goats. Time for pictures and cuddles with the mini goats will be included at the end. While unlikely, it is possible that the goats could nibble on items like yoga mats, loose clothing, etc. We suggest bringing an old mat if you have one and wearing clothes that you would not mind getting dirty.
Registration deadline: Wednesday, August 20
Popsicle Party
All ages
Stop by the shelter for a free popsicle! Cool off in the sprayground as summer winds down! We will also have crafts and games for children to enjoy.
Registration is not required, but registered participants will receive reminder and/or cancellation emails.
Conservation Crew: Stream Survey
Ages 12 – 18
Assist with a water quality study! We will identify aquatic insects and test different aspects of the creek to get an idea of how the habitat is faring. This session will take place entirely outdoors. Close-toed shoes that can go in the creek are required.
Registration deadline: Tuesday, August 26
National Dog Day!
All ages (must be 8+ to go in the dog park)
This year’s National Dog Day celebration is doggy day camp-themed! Make crafts, play water games, socialize with other dogs (and owners) and enjoy a dog-friendly camp-themed treat spread. You might even walk away with a doggy day camp prize for your dog (available while supplies last).
Please review the dog park rules before attending. All dogs must be on a leash when entering and leaving the dog park. Children must be 8+ years old to enter the off-leash area.
Summer Adult Archery C
Ages 16 and up
This program is for beginners interested in learning archery! By the end of the night, you’ll be shooting on your own, playing games and increasing your confidence as an archer. Each group can have up to four people. This program is perfect for couples, friend groups, co-workers, siblings and more! One registration per group. Must be 16 or older to join.
Registration deadline: Monday, August 25
Ages 18 and up
Tuesdays & Fridays, September 2 – November 25
Meet up with other trail trekking enthusiasts to trek through the parks during this self-guided meet-up program! You must bring your own Nordic poles if you sign up for this option.
There is no registration deadline for this program. Join anytime!
Ages 18 and up
Tuesdays & Fridays, September 2 – November 25
Meet up with other trail trekking enthusiasts to trek through the parks through this self-guided meet-up program! Sign up to rent Nordic poles if you want to try trekking before you purchase your own set. You will be contacted to sign a borrower’s permit and pick up your set for the fall. A limited number of rental poles are available.
There is no registration deadline for this program. Join anytime!
A Walk in the Park
Ages 18 and up
Tuesdays & Thursdays, September 2 – November 25
Get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine and fresh air while meeting other walking enthusiasts. These are self-guided walks around your community parks! Walking helps maintain a healthy weight, increases energy, lifts your spirits, strengthens memory and protects from heart disease and high blood pressure.
There is no registration deadline for this program. Join anytime!
Beginner Pickleball Lessons
Ages 18 and up
Tuesdays, September 2 – September 30
(No class September 9)
Join Certified Pickleball Trainer James Lawson to develop the introductory skills to level up your pickleball game. James is a licensed and certified instructor with a DUPR rating of 5.23. This 4-week lesson is designed for the beginner player looking to develop basic skills to move up to a more competitive level of play.
Registration deadline: Friday, August 29
Early Adventures
Ages 0 – 5 years with adult companion
Hit the trail with us! These exploratory hikes foster curiosity and confidence in young children. Your leader will point out seasonal changes and other natural points of interest in the parks. Hike is on a natural path. This is a Tools to Trek program. Backpacks and front carriers are appropriate if your child is not walking.
Registration deadline: Sunday, August 31
Ages 18 and up
Wednesdays, September 3 – November 26
Let’s get you moving outdoors this fall! Staff and volunteers will lead groups at different paces. Hike for Your Health is a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and get to know some of your parks better. All hikes are on natural trails. Please wear appropriate shoes for trails that may be muddy or slick.
There is no registration deadline for this program. Join anytime!