The Memorial Lake State Park Complex has announced its April schedule of outdoor events at the complex, comprising Memorial Lake State Park, Swatara State Park, Boyd Big Tree Conservation Area, and Joseph Ibberson Conservation Area.
On Tuesday, April 2, a “Waterfowl Walk” will be held at Memorial Lake State Park. The park naturalist, field guides, and binoculars will be available to help visitors observe migrating birds that make a pit stop at the park.
On Thursday, April 4, a “Vernal Pool Patrol” program at Swatara State Park will give participants a chance to learn about vernal pools and possibly see some amphibians in action. The park will repeat the program as a homeschool day on Wednesday, April 10.
On Saturday, April 6, Memorial Lake State Park will offer an “Exploring Eclipses” program to prepare guests for the upcoming solar eclipse, by providing them with information on eclipses and how to safely view them.
Also, on Saturday, April 6, Swatara State Park will offer “Fossil Frenzy: Dig into PA’s Past.” The program will feature fossils from the park and an opportunity to dig into the fossil hill for them, as well as information on how these fossils came to be and what they say about the park’s past.
On Monday, April 8, an “Eclipse Viewing” will be held at Memorial Lake State Park. The park will have about 90 percent coverage. Supplies for pinhole viewers will be available, as well as an educator for questions.
On Friday, April 12, and Saturday, April 13, a self-guided “Bear-Hole Trail Drive-Thru” at Swatara State Park will allow enthusiasts to explore the trail by car and, with the use of one of four designated parking areas, by foot. The self-guided tour will repeat on Friday, April 26, and Saturday, April 27.
Read More: Swatara State Park sets self-guided Bear Hole Trail driving tours on April 12 & 13
On Saturday, April 13, a “Hook, Line, and Simple: Intro to Fishing” program at Memorial Lake State Park will teach participants the basics of fishing. Fishing rods, tackle, and bait will be provided. Those ages 16 and older must have a Pennsylvania fishing license.
Also, on Saturday, April 13, Swatara State Park will host a “PA Mammals Fur and Skull Table” at Bordner’s Cabin. Visitors can test their knowledge of the furs and skulls of common mammals in the state.
Read More: How to visit Bordner’s Cabin at Swatara State Park [Photo Story]
On Wednesday, April 17, an “Intro to Kayaking” program will be held at Memorial Lake State Park. Guests will have the opportunity to learn the basics of kayaking. Kayaks, paddles, and lifejackets will be provided.
On Friday, April 19, an “Intro to Archery” program at Memorial Lake State Park will teach participants the basics of archery. All necessary equipment will be provided.
On Monday, April 22, Memorial Lake State Park will hold an “Earth Day Trash Pick-Up” in an effort to clean the park for people and wildlife to enjoy. Trash bags and gloves will be provided.
All programs may change due to weather or staffing shortages. Visitors are advised to check the DCNR calendar of events or Facebook page for cancellations or changes to programs. Special accommodations will be made for those who require them if contacted 72 hours prior to the event.
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