Seasonal Programming

During the summer, the park hosts environmental education programming. Each summer is a little different, depending on our capacity and various opportunities. 

Bird Walks

From late March through mid-October, the High Country Audubon Society hosts weekly bird walks in the park. Walks are free, but donations to the park and the Audubon Society are encouraged. For more information, visit the High Country Audubon Society’s website.

Park Naturalist Paul Laurent will be leading a 3-day Intro to Birding Workshop at the beginning of October!

Self-Guided Tree Walk

Thirty of the trees in the park are accompanied by identifying signs. Information is provided about species that are common in our region, as well as rare plants found very few other places in the world. A tree scavenger hunt worksheet is available in the Welcome Center.

Explore on Your Own

While in the park, take some time to appreciate the significant natural areas. Our park is located in a floodplain: You may notice standing water, sand, and other debris. Flooding is part of our natural cycle, and we embrace it!

Three major restoration projects have been undertaken in the park to help manage stormwater and protect our precious water resources. The large wetland area was once a man-made pond. Depending on the amount of recent rain, this area could be full of water or very dry. Step out onto the two viewing platforms: You’re likely to spot turtles and lots of water-loving birds.
Extensive work also was completed to restore the banks of the Watauga River and Dutch Creek. Please feel free to explore these areas, but use the existing footpaths to help prevent erosion.