From fishing lessons to astronomy programs, from tree identification hikes to kite workshops, our parks offer a variety of learning opportunities for all ages. Most of the events are free, though some require pre-registration.
Browse through the event listing below.
Spiders are very interesting and beneficial to our environment. They are also North Carolina's featured animal in 2017. So how much do you really know about the 8-legged arachnids living around you? This program is designed to teach the basics of what makes the spider unique, and introduce some of the common species that call NC home. Seating is limited, so please call the park office at... more
Meet in the Fort entrance for a guided tour of Fort Macon. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and are held daily at 11:00, 12:00, 2:00, & 3:00.
Learn about the similarities and differences between the Grizzly Bear and the Black Bear. Learn their behaviors, food sources and what they look like.
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Are you a first-time paddler interested in going on one of our river paddle programs? Start out small and join a ranger for a beginner’s course at our swim lake.
Registration required! The park has 5 canoes to loan out for this program. Call the Visitor’s Center @ (919) 778-6234 to reserve a park vessel.
A program to discover the tracks and signs of native wildlife species. Participants make a plaster cast of their favorite track to take home. Call ahead to register.
Take a stroll with a ranger to learn about the beautiful wildflowers that are blooming here at Mt. Mitchell and few species blooming on the Parkway. Be prepared for a short hike on the Balsam Nature Trail.
Join a ranger to learn about the diversity of life found here at Mount Mitchell State Park and what they eat and where you might be able to see these mysterious creatures.
Enjoy the grandeur of the evening sky from atop the largest active dune on the Atlantic Coast. The program covers dune formation and evolution as well as local legends. Meet at the dunes, at the park utility vehicle.
Wednesday Hummingbird banding season begins! Join Ornitholigist, Susan Campbell, for a remarkable look at how Hummingbirds are banded and data recorded. *Weather Permitting. Please feel free to call the day before to be sure banding is taking place.
Meet in the Fort entrance for a guided tour of Fort Macon. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and are held daily at 11:00, 12:00, 2:00, & 3:00.
