Weekend Events at Lake Charles State Park are as follows….
NATURE CENTER Friday through Sunday 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 29
TURTLE TALK 1:30 p.m. Nature Center Discover some of the many types of turtles found in and around Lake Charles. Meet a park interpreter at the nature center to see both land and water turtles, and learn about these creatures’ special adaptations.
CURIOUS RACCOONS 3:00 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.
Saturday, June 30
SCENIC LAKE CRUISE 9:00 a.m. Snapp Pier Bring the family and your sense of adventure, and come enjoy a cruise on Lake Charles. Discover the history of the lake, watch for wildlife, take photographs, or just relax. Seating is limited, so make your reservation at the visitor center. Cost: $7 adults, $3.50 kids ages 6-12, under 6 free
ALLIGATOR INVESTIGATIONS 1:30 p.m. Nature Center Come to the nature center, where a park interpreter will introduce you to an American Alligator. Discover how this reptile is uniquely suited to its habitat, and do a fun alligator activity.
THE INDUSTRIOUS BEAVER
3:00 p.m.
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.
Sunday, July 1
ARTILLERY DEMONSTRATION 1:00 p.m. Snapp Pier Feel the thunder of the “King of Battle†in honor of the birthday of our country. Park staff will be firing an authentic Civil War cannon in this demonstration. Volunteers from the audience will participate in laying the gun while park staff tells the story of Civil War Artillery. Free to the public.
NIGHT FLIGHT 2:00 p.m. Nature Center Owls are one of very few birds who are active at night. Discover the special features of this amazing nighttime raptor and learn about Arkansas’ four native species.
VENOMOUS SNAKES OF ARKANSAS 3:30 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 come across one in the wild.