NATURE CENTER Friday through Monday 2-4 p.m. Come take a look at some live animals that call Lake Charles State Park home. A park interpreter will be on hand to answer questions. Located near the swim beach in the day use area.
Friday, June 1
AMAZING AMPHIBIANS 1:30 p.m. Nature Center Will toads give you warts? Why are frogs slimy? What on earth is a salamander? Learn about amazing amphibians, and discover why these fragile creatures are such an important part of our ecosystem.
INCREDIBLE REPTILES 3:00 p.m. Nature Center Reptiles share many characteristics, but there are also incredible differences among them. Discover what makes an animal a reptile, and see examples such as snakes, turtles, and lizards.
CAMPFIRE BASICS 6:00 p.m. Across from Area C A toasty fire is the heart of every camping trip, but many a camper has eaten a cold supper when they couldn’t get the fire going. Learn some sure-fire methods to start a toasty blaze, and pick up some important safety tips to keep your camping trip fun. Participants are invited to bring their own marshmallows to roast over the fire.
Saturday, June 2
FEED THE CRITTERS 2:00 p.m. Nature Center Have you ever watched a snake have a snack or a newt have a nibble? It’s dinner time in the nature center at Lake Charles State Park! We will be feeding snakes, fish, turtles, and more, so come to watch the animals eat and learn about how they feed themselves in the wild. CURIOUS RACCOONS 3:30 p.m. Nature Center
Raccoons are highly adaptable little mammals. Join a park interpreter at the nature center to discover the habits, habitat, and hangouts of these interesting nocturnal critters. Participants will be able to see and touch a raccoon skin and skull.
MOONLIGHT KAYAK TOUR 8:30 p.m. Swim Beach A trail can be more than just a path through the woods. Celebrate National Trails Day by joining a park interpreter for a guided kayak tour of Lake Charles. You will enjoy exploring this aquatic trail underneath the full moon while discovering different types of nocturnal animals that can be found on the lake. Kayak experience is not necessary, but reservations are. Call our office at 870-878-6595 to reserve your spot. Cost: $10 adults, $5 kids ages 6-12, under 6 Free when riding tandem with adult
Sunday, June 3
WHITE OAK TRAIL HIKE 10:00 a.m. White Oak Trailhead Could there ever be too many trees? Surprisingly, the answer is yes, but nature has a special way to prevent tree over-population. Join a park interpreter to learn how fires can be an important part of forest ecology as you hike this moderately difficult 1.5 mile trail. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
THE INDUSTRIOUS BEAVER 1:30 p.m. Nature Center American Indians called beavers the sacred center of the land because this animal creates a rich, watery habitat for other mammals, fish, turtles, frogs, and birds. Learn more about this industrious species, and see and touch beaver fur and skulls.
VENOMOUS SNAKES OF ARKANSAS 3:00 p.m. Nature Center Learn to identify the types of venomous snakes that can be found in Arkansas and discover how these snakes can be helpful to the environment. See these snakes up close in our nature center, and find out what to do if you ever cross one in the wild.