October program schedule set for Memorial Lake and Swatara state parks

Memorial Lake State Park Complex, comprising parks in Lebanon, Dauphin, and a small part of Schuylkill counties, has a full October schedule for nature lovers, adventurers, and families.

Swatara State Park sprawls across 3,520 acres of picturesque fields and woodlands. Established in 1987, the park boasts an array of trails suitable for walking, cycling, and horseback riding, interspersed with historical waterway features. Memorial Lake State Park, sitting near Blue Mountain in East Hanover Township, is known for its boating and fishing activities. The lake itself, at Fort Indiantown Gap, was fashioned by a man-made dam.

Here is a list of events. Program changes due to weather or staffing can occur, so it’s recommended to check for updates. For special accommodations, contact 717-865-6470 or email qheist@pa.gov at least 72 hours prior to the event. Activities are free unless otherwise noted.

Friday and Saturday, Oct. 10-11, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. – Bear-Hole Trail Drive-Thru at Swatara State Park. Self-guided drive begins at Swopes Valley Trailhead and lets out at Waterville Bridge near Lickdale, about 5 miles. There are designated parking areas at the fossil pit, Daubert School, charcoal pit, and near Bordner Cabin. Speed limit is 10 mph and all traffic is one way. Last entrance at 2:30 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-noon – Falconry Day at Memorial Lake State Park. Learn the history of falconry, meet a local falconer, and meet some live birds. Meet near Middle Lot pavilion.

Saturday, Oct. 11, 2-3:30 p.m. – Hike MELA Complex at Memorial Lake State Park. Meet near Lower Lot pavilion for a challenging hike with a park naturalist and other hikers. Wear appropriate footwear, bring water and snacks.

Sunday, Oct. 12, 10-11:30 a.m. – Birding Walk at Memorial Lake State Park. Meet the park naturalist near Middle Lot pavilion for a morning bird walk around Memorial Lake. The park has binoculars and field guides to lend or bring your own.

Tuesday, Oct. 14, 5-6:30 p.m. – Intro to Kayaking at Memorial Lake State Park. Meet at the Lower Road Boat Launch to learn the basics of kayak safety and technique. Kayak, paddle, and lifejacket are provided. Limited spots are available, so prior registration is required online on the calendar of events page. Cost is $5 cash or check made out to the Friends of Memorial Lake and Swatara State Parks. Participants must be 12 years or older and able to handle an adult kayak. If interested in bringing a child under 12, email amcgonnell@pa.gov to check for tandem kayak availability. Anyone under 18 must be with a parent.

Sunday, Oct. 19, 5-6:30 p.m. – Hike MELA Complex at Boyd Big Tree Preserve. Meet at the education pavilion for a challenging hike with a park naturalist and other hikers. Wear appropriate footwear, bring water and snacks.

Saturday, Oct. 25, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. – Nature Journaling Table at Swatara State Park. Connect with the natural world through observation and creativity. Participants will explore their surroundings and record what they see, hear, and feel using drawing, writing, and curiosity. No artistic experience needed. Table will be located at Bordner Cabin.

Friday and Saturday, Oct. 24-25, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. – Bear-Hole Trail Drive-Thru at Swatara State Park. Self-guided drive begins at Swopes Valley Trailhead and lets out at Waterville Bridge near Lickdale, about 5 miles. There are designated parking areas at the fossil pit, Daubert School, charcoal pit, and near Bordner Cabin. Speed limit is 10 mph and all traffic is one way. Last entrance at 2:30 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 26, 12:30-2:30 p.m. – Art in the Park Hike at Boyd Big Tree Preserve. Meet at the education pavilion, then go on a short walk to collect natural items or a particular view to use as a model to paint. The park will provide basic watercolors, brushes, paper, and other supplementary art materials.

Sunday, Oct. 26, 3:30-5 p.m. – Fall Foliage Hike at Boyd Big Tree Preserve. Join the park naturalist at the education pavilion for a 2-mile hike to see and discuss the autumn colors. Be sure to bring water and good hiking shoes.

Saturday, Nov. 1, 3-4:30 p.m. – Hike MELA Complex at Joseph E. Ibberson. Meet at the education pavilion for a challenging hike with a park naturalist and other hikers. Wear appropriate footwear, bring water and snacks.