Find your adventure in Geauga Park District this spring – featuring an Earth Day drive-through event at The West Woods, opportunities to help scouts achieve their goals, and a variety of virtual naturalist-led programs that you can attend from home!
Here are our offerings coming up for April, May and June 2021. You may also view these programs and events published on www.geaugaparkdistrict.org, and in our quarterly Park Explorer Activity Guide, mailed to every Geauga County household and available in all county libraries.
Please note that due to COVID-19 and social distancing guidelines, all public programs and special events are subject to change or be cancelled. Be sure to always check www.geaugaparkdistrict.org for updates before heading out. Face coverings are required for all indoor programs and events as well as all outdoor programs and events when social distancing is not possible. Thanks in advance for helping keep the parks safe and open for everyone!
April
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, April 20, 1-2:30 PM
Big Creek Park, Deep Woods
Hikes for active seniors 1 to 1 ½ miles long. Naturalist led. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule: 440-279-2126. Registration required.
Blackbrook Audubon: The Wildlife of Bass Lake
Tuesday, April 20, 7-9 PM
Virtual program
With a quiet canoe, camera, coffee and patient observation, Nature enthusiast Chris Parker has documented the wonderful wildlife that occurs at Bass Lake Preserve. Join him to share close encounters with Bald Eagles, river otters and other amazing wildlife. A collaboration with Blackbrook Audubon Society. This presentation is online via the free software Zoom. All you need to do to attend is register for the program and we will send you the link to join the program. Registration required.
Earth Day Drive-Through
Thursday, April 22, Noon-2 PM (15-minute slots)
The West Woods
Come celebrate Earth Day safely and locally through this outdoor drive-through even where natural resource management staff and special guest wildlife conservation experts will hand out free native trees, wildflowers, children’s activities and information to engage and educate the general public on caring for the Earth. Registration required.
Maple Town Tune Traders Virtual Jam Session
Thursday, April 22, 7-9 PM
Virtual program
Register to play, sing or simply enjoy as audience. Musicians of all levels, genres and instruments are welcome. This program is online via the free software Zoom. All you need to do to attend is register for the program and we will send you the link to join the program. Registration required.
Earthquakes in Ohio
Friday, April 23, 7-8 PM
Virtual program
See description for April 9 program. Registration required.
Birding for Early Birds
Thursday, April 29, 7:30-9:30 AM
The Rookery
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
See a variety of birds as they return to prime breeding habitat during spring migration. Experienced leaders will assist participants with observation and identification. Dress for the weather; bring binoculars. Registration required.
Birding for Beginners
Thursday, April 29, 10 AM-Noon
The Rookery
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Curious or new to birding? Learn the basics of bird identification on this slow paced bird walk. Experienced leader will assist participants with observation and identification. Binoculars available to borrow. Registration required.
May
Bilingual Chinese/English Wildflower Walk ( 双语野花远足 )
Saturday, May 1, 2-3 PM
The West Woods
双语野花远足Get to know the surprising variety of Ohio’s native spring wildflowers while also learning some Mandarin Chinese as we translate from English to Mandarin. Our walk will be less than two miles over uneven terrain. Dress for the weather. Registration required.
Birding at Headland Dunes State Nature Preserve
Monday, May 3, 8-10 AM
Headland Dunes State Nature Preserve, Mentor
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Experience one of the best bird-watching spots in Northeast Ohio to witness the spring spectacle of bird migration along the shores of Lake Erie. We will split into small groups to follow state safety guidelines. Held rain or shine, so dress for the weather and wear appropriate footgear for sandy trails and beach; bring binoculars. Registration required.
Geauga Skywatchers Club: Ancient Astronomy
Monday, May 3, 6:30-7:30 PM
Virtual program
Imagine a world where a shooting star is an omen for things to come, where the stars and planets are your calendar, where predictable astronomical happenings rule your everyday life. Welcome to the world of ancient astronomy! Join in as we explore ancient astronomical ruins, lifestyles, mythology and more. Learn how the night sky was of extreme importance to the ancient peoples and civilizations all over the world. Registration required at https://geaugalibrary.libcal.com.
Birding at Headland Dunes State Nature Preserve
Tuesday, May 4, 8-10 AM
Headland Dunes State Nature Preserve, Mentor
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
See description for May 3 program. Registration required.
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, May 4, 1-2:30 PM
Swine Creek Reservation, Woods Edge
Hikes for active seniors 1 to 1 ½ miles long. Naturalist led. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule: 440-279-2126. Registration required.
Birding at Headland Dunes State Nature Preserve
Wednesday, May 5, 8-10 AM
Headland Dunes State Nature Preserve, Mentor
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
See description for May 3 program. Registration required.
Birding for Early Birds
Thursday, May 6, 7:30-9:30 AM
Beartown Lakes Reservation, North Point
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
See a variety of birds as they return to prime breeding habitat during spring migration. Experienced leaders will assist participants with observation and identification. Dress for the weather; bring binoculars. Registration required.
Birding for Beginners
Thursday, May 6, 10 AM-12 PM
Beartown Lakes Reservation, North Point
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Curious or new to birding? Learn the basics of bird identification on this slow paced bird walk. Experienced leader will assist participants with observation and identification. Binoculars available to borrow. Registration required.
Exoplanets & How to Find Them
Friday, May 7, 7-8 PM
Virtual program
Every day, humans discover planets in other solar systems called “exoplanets.” Learn how you can join in the search! This presentation is online via the free software Zoom. All you need to do to attend is register for the program and we will send you the link to join in. Registration required.
Meet the Artists: The Artwork of Michele Longstreet, Lydia Curtis & Linda Easton
Friday, May 7, 7-9 PM
The West Woods Nature Center
Meet artist Michele Longstreet and view her collection of artwork inspired by Nature. Also on display is The Lydia Curtis Wildflower Collection and wildlife art by Linda Easton. Show runs through July 27. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Kayak Float
Saturday, May 8, 9 AM-Noon & 1-4 PM
Headwaters Park, Boathouse
Enjoy a beautiful paddle around East Branch Reservoir as we search for wildlife! Previous kayaking experience required. Dress for the weather. Program canceled the day prior if bad weather is forecast. Registration required beginning May 1.
Night Sky Viewing
Saturday, May 8, 8-8:50 PM, 9-9:50 PM & 10-10:50 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Join us for socially-distant night-sky viewing! If the skies are clear, we’ll have several telescopes spaced around the Observatory Park plaza. If cloudy, registered participants can join in an indoor planetarium presentation instead. Please register for only one session per night. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Homeschool Days: At-Home & Outdoor Pollinators (Ages 5-7)
Friday, May 14, 10-11 AM
Virtual program
Join a naturalist for a virtual lesson all about pollinators! Then you’ll be sent a pollinator-themed outdoor scavenger hunt that, once completed and turned in to one of our drop-off locations, will earn you a flower- and insect-themed activity pack (complete with honey samples)! Login information will be sent prior to the program date. Registration required.
Weave a Tote Basket
Friday, May 14, 12:30-5:30 PM
The West Woods Nature Center
Fee: $45 Geauga County residents, $49 out-of-county residents
Learn the art of basket weaving while making your own leather handled tote basket. Finished basket will be approximately 16 1/2″ L x 7 1/2″ W x 12 1/2″ D. Some experience recommended. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Homeschool Days: At-Home & Outdoors Pollinators (Ages 8-12)
Friday, May 14, 2-3 PM
Virtual program
See description for morning program. Registration required.
Scout Day: Daisy Girl Scouts “Trail Adventure”
Saturday, May 15, 10-11:15 AM
Big Creek Park, Cherry Room
Join us to work on your Trail Adventure badge and learn to plan and prepare for a Nature hike! Dress for the weather. Parent is required to register and attend with scout. Registration required by phone only.
Scout Day: Wolf Cub Scouts “Finding Your Way”
Saturday, May 15, 1-3 PM
Big Creek Park, Cherry Room
Chip Henry Institute for Kids
Children-specific, Nature outings, Scouting
Join us to discover how to use a map and compass to locate objects and go on a hike as part of this elective adventure! Parent is required to register and attend with scout. Registration required by phone only.
Nassau Astronomy Night with CVAS
Saturday, May 15, 7-11 PM
Observatory Park, Nassau Astronomical Station
Join members of the Chagrin Valley Astronomical Society to take in the wonders of the night sky using our newly restored telescope and discover all this amazing facility has to offer. Participants may have to wait for admittance as a limited number will be permitted in the building at a time. Cancelled if cloudy.
Hound Hike/Pack Walk with the Chagrin Valley Beagles
Sunday, May 16, 10-11 AM & 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Sunnybrook Preserve, Lodge
Bring your dog for a spring walk on woodland trails and some dog training fun led by professional dog trainer Stacy Totten and assisted by Chagrin Valley Beagles’ Huntsman Karen Dickson. This pack walk will be filled with fun, easy challenges to help train your dog to focus on you regardless of distractions. Arrive a few minutes early to check-in. Bring a water bowl, treats and waste bags. One dog per handler, who must be able to fully control dog, kept on leash at all times (8 ft. max). Registration required.
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, May 18, 1-2:30 PM
Headwaters Park, Route 322 Parking Lot
Hikes for active seniors 1 to 1 ½ miles long. Naturalist led. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule: 440-279-2126. Registration required.
Elderberries: The Buzz About Native Pollinators
Thursday, May 20, 9-10 AM & 10:30-11:30 AM
Claridon Woodlands, Judge Lester Taylor Lodge
Have you heard the recent buzz about our native pollinators? Hear a naturalist discuss our important and remarkable native pollinators and their importance in our lives. A collaboration with Geauga Department on Aging and University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Exoplanets & How to Find Them
Friday, May 21, 7-8 PM
Virtual program
Every day, humans discover planets in other solar systems called “exoplanets.” Learn how you can join in the search! This presentation is online via the free software Zoom. All you need to do to attend is register for the program and we will send you the link to join in. Registration required.
Night Sky Viewing
Saturday, May 22, 9-9:50 PM & 10-10:50 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Join us for socially distant night-sky viewing! If the skies are clear, we’ll have several telescopes spaced around the Observatory Park plaza. If cloudy, registered participants can join in an indoor planetarium presentation instead. Please register for only one session per night. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
The Sky Tonight Planetarium Show
Sunday, May 23, 1-1:45 PM, 2-2:45 PM, 3-3:45 PM & 4-4:45 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Join us for a socially distant planetarium presentation about what to watch for in the night sky this week. Please only register for one presentation. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Nature Journaling: Spring Wildflowers & Pollinators
Monday, May 24, 9:30 AM-12 PM
Big Creek Park, Deep Woods
Fee: $20 Geauga County residents, $24 out-of-county residents
Learn basic journaling techniques to record your Nature observations. This month will be learning about the relationship between spring wildflowers and their pollinators. Partially outdoors. Taking photos is optional. A one-time registration fee for this monthly series includes a journal, pen and pencil. Registration required by phone only.
Partial Lunar Eclipse
Wednesday, May 26, 5-6 AM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Ohio just barely catches a glimpse of today’s lunar eclipse before the full moon sets. Join us for an early-morning moon-viewing session and learn about some other upcoming eclipses (which should offer a better show)! Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Timbertots: Flower Fun (Ages 3-5 w/adult)
Thursday, May 27, 10-11 AM & 1-2 PM
Big Creek Park, Deep Woods
Find out how flowers can be fun with colors, counting and exploration! Mostly outdoors, weather permitting, so dress accordingly. This program is designed for a specified age group. All people in attendance, adults and children, must register by phone only. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Maple Town Tune Traders Virtual Jam Session
Thursday, May 27, 7-9 PM
Virtual program
Register to play, sing or simply enjoy as audience. Musicians of all levels, genres and instruments are welcome. This program is online via the free software Zoom. All you need to do to attend is register for the program and we will send you the link to join the program. Registration required.
June
Geauga Walkers Picnic
Tuesday, June 1, Noon-2:30 PM
Frohring Meadows, Katydid Lodge
Join other active seniors on weekly hikes of 1 to 1½ miles in Geauga County and the surrounding area. This is the annual picnic. Please bring your lunch which will follow the naturalist lead hike. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule, 440-279-2126. Registration required.
Geauga Skywatchers Club: Geocentrism – Springboard to Copernicus, Part 2
Monday, June 7, 6:30-7:30 PM
Virtual program
The second part of a fascinating program on geocentrism. Skywatchers is designed for grades 6-12, but anyone can join. Registration required at https://geaugalibrary.libcal.com.
Partial Solar Eclipse
Thursday, June 10, 5:30-6:45 AM
Location TBD
Nature’s Not to Be Missed
Ohioans can just barely catch a glimpse of this partial solar eclipse at sunrise, but we’re ready to embrace a challenge! The eclipse will already be half over by the time the sun rises, and will already be finished by 6:45 AM. We’ll meet at an off-site location, to be communicated after registration, with sun-viewing safety gear to welcome the rising sun. Registration required.
Benjamin Banneker: Astronomy Pioneer
Friday, June 11, 7-8 PM
Virtual program
Explore the work of Benjamin Banneker, the self-taught math whiz who calculated the mysteries of the universe from a Maryland farmhouse in the 1790s. Plus, learn how to create an almanac! This presentation is online via the free software Zoom. All you need to do to attend is register for the program and we will send you the link to join in. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Basic Learn to Kayak (Ages 10+ w/adult)
Saturday, June 12, 9 AM-Noon
Bass Lake Preserve
Learn basic kayak-handling techniques for safe kayaking on flat water. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Wear shoes to get wet or muddy, and bring water and a change of clothes just in case the kayak overturns. Please no private kayaks or unregistered people, and let us know if you intend to cancel in consideration for the waiting list. Face coverings required when social distancing is not possible (getting in and out of kayak). Registration required beginning June 5.
Nature Explorers: Friends of Flowers (Ages 6-11 w/adult)
Saturday, June 12, 10:30 AM-Noon, 1-2:30 PM & 3-4:30 PM
Orchard Hills Park, Lodge
Learn about those friends of flowers we call pollinators and why they’re important. Dress for the weather. Adult must register and attend with child. Registration required.
Basic Learn to Canoe (Ages 10+ with adult)
Saturday, June 12, 1:30-4:30 PM
Bass Lake Preserve
Learn basic canoe-handling techniques for safe canoeing on flat water. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. If possible, please register with another paddler to share your canoe. Wear shoes to get wet or muddy, and bring water and a change of clothes just in case the canoe overturns. Please no private canoes or unregistered people, and let us know if you intend to cancel in consideration for the waiting list. Face coverings required when social distancing is not possible (getting in and out of canoe). Registration required beginning June 5.
Night Sky Viewing
Saturday, June 12, 9-9:50 PM & 10-10:50 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Join us for socially distant night-sky viewing! If the skies are clear, we’ll have several telescopes spaced around the Observatory Park plaza. If cloudy, registered participants can join in an indoor planetarium presentation instead. Please register for only one session per night. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Adventure Day Camp at Affelder House (Youth entering grades 8-10)
Monday-Friday, June 14-18, 9 AM-4 PM
The West Woods, Affelder House
Fee: $150 Geauga County residents, $175 out-of-county residents
Are you ready for an adventure!? If so, join Geauga Park District’s Adventure Day Camp for an exciting week that includes exploring, hiking, fishing, stream exploration, geocaching and more! Campers will spend their day both on-trail and off-trail near the Affelder House at 15139 Chillicothe Road, which will be the drop-off and pick-up location for this week. Schedules, required waivers and other details will be sent at a later date. Bring lunch, water and a raincoat in a backpack each day; other equipment is included in the registration fee. Financial assistance available; call 440-286-9516 for details. Registration required.
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, June 15, 1-2:30 PM
Swine Creek Reservation, Woods Edge
Hikes for active seniors 1 to 1 ½ miles long. Naturalist led. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule 440-279-2126. Registration required.
Elderberries: Dragon Hunting
Thursday, June 17, 11 AM-Noon & 12:30-1:30 PM
Orchard Hills Park, Lodge
You won’t need a suit of armor for these dragons! Dragonflies and damselflies call the parks home. Join us for an up-close chance to discover the wonders and variety of these winged residents. A collaboration with Geauga Department on Aging and University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center. Registration required.
Nature Trek Fitness Hike
Friday, June 18, 5-6:30 PM & 7-8:30 PM
Orchard Hills Park
Let’s move it, people! Burn off those calories on this fitness hike, learning some cool Nature facts along the way. Participants should have the ability to hike at least three miles. Held rain or shine, so dress accordingly and bring water. Registration required.
Nature Exploration Kayak (Ages 12+ w/adult)
Saturday, June 19, 1-3 PM
Bass Lake Preserve
Discover an amazing diversity of plants and animals during a leisurely afternoon kayak. Bring your own kayak or borrow one of ours! Previous kayaking experience required. Bring a water and sunscreen. Masks will be required when social distancing not possible (being helped in and out of kayak). Registration required beginning June 12.
Nassau Astronomy Night with CVAS
Saturday, June 19, 7-11 PM
Observatory Park, Nassau Astronomical Station
Join members of the Chagrin Valley Astronomical Society to take in the wonders of the night sky using our newly restored telescope and discover all this amazing facility has to offer. Participants may have to wait for admittance as a limited number will be permitted in the building at a time. Cancelled if cloudy.
Movie Night: “Jumanji: The Next Level”
Saturday, June 19, 8:30-11:30 PM
Observatory Park
Register to watch “Jumanji: The Next Level” (PG-13) outdoors at this International Dark Sky Park! Movie shown at dusk. Bring your own blankets, lawn chairs and refreshments. Cancelled in case of inclement weather. Sorry, due to safety protocols, we will not be providing lemonade or popcorn this season. We will observe social distancing and use of face masks. Registration required beginning March 20 for Geauga County residents and June 1 for out-of-county residents. Up to six people may be registered at once; must show registration receipt for entry.
Maple Town Tune Traders Virtual Jam Session
Thursday, June 24, 7-9 PM
Virtual program
Register to play, sing or simply enjoy as audience. Musicians of all levels, genres and instruments are welcome. Program will be virtual via free Zoom software; a link will be sent via email to attend. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Benjamin Banneker: Astronomy Pioneer
Friday, June 25, 7-8 PM
Virtual program
Explore the work of Benjamin Banneker, the self-taught math whiz who calculated the mysteries of the universe from a Maryland farmhouse in the 1790s. Plus, learn how to create an almanac! This presentation is online via the free software Zoom. All you need to do to attend is register for the program and we will send you the link to join in. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Night Sky Viewing
Saturday, June 26, 9-9:50 PM & 10-10:50 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Join us for socially distant night-sky viewing! If the skies are clear, we’ll have several telescopes spaced around the Observatory Park plaza. If cloudy, registered participants can join in an indoor planetarium presentation instead. Please register for only one session per night. Registration required. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
The Sky Tonight Planetarium Show
Sunday, June 27, 1-1:45 PM, 2-2:45 PM, 3-3:45 PM & 4-4:45 PM
Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center
Join us for a planetarium presentation about what to watch for in the night sky this week. Please only register for one session. Registration required.
Nature Journaling: Kayak Experience
Monday, June 28, 9 AM-Noon & 1-4 PM
Bass Lake Preserve, Lodge
Fee: $20 Geauga County residents, $24 out-of-county residents
Learn basic journaling techniques to record your Nature observations. This month we’ll kayak on Bass Lake, then journal about the experience. Partially outdoors. Taking photos is optional. A one-time registration fee for the monthly series includes a journal, pen and pencil. Registration required by phone only.
Geauga Walkers
Tuesday, June 29, 1-2:30 PM
Observatory Park, Cygnus Shelter
Hikes for active seniors 1 to 1 ½ miles long. Naturalist led. Call Geauga Senior Center for full schedule, 440-279-2126. Registration required.
