The Darke County Parks invites you to their 11th annual Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland at Shawnee Prairie Preserve! On Saturday, December 1st from 6pm – 9pm, join us for one of our favorite events of the year, including many of your favorite festive actives, including over 500 luminaries, log house visitations and refreshments, marshmallow roasting, campfires, children’s crafts, gingerbread cookie decorating, nature gift shop sales, a visit from Santa and more! 

After last year’s record number of attendees a few changes were required to ensure this popular event continues to run smoothly.  A new parking destination will be located at the 130 Winchester entrance (look for the signs), just east of the main entrance to Shawnee Prairie on OH-502.  From the new parking area, illuminated wagons pulled by tractors will be available to provide transportation to and from the main trail or if you choose, you can extend your walk in the woods by just a short distance all while enjoying even more luminaries!  The main park entrance will be blocked and only those with handicap parking placards or plates will be able to enter. 

On top of the hill, between the Log House and the Nature Center, the Stillwater Stargazers will have telescopes set up and allowing for stunning views into the heavens above. The winter night sky always is spectacular!

Also new for 2018, the Park District is also asking that you call to register for this FREE event.  Registrations only require a moment of time and will allow for more accurate planning regarding the amount of supplies needed for activities and how many vehicles can be expected.  To register, simply call the Nature Center at 937-548-0165 or email at info@darkecountyparks.org.

With the addition of tractor wagon rides, new and easier parking location and all of your other favorites, the Park District is looking forward to a fun-filled evening welcoming in a peaceful holiday season!

Please call 937-548-0165 if you have questions, need directions or would like to register.   

Calling all birder-watchers! Join the Darke County Park District, and participate in Project FeederWatch, every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9-11am. FeederWatch is a unique citizen science program organized by Cornell University which studies winter bird populations. Observations from here in Darke County may be used in scientific journals and shared with ornithologists and bird lovers nationwide. No matter your birding level, beginner or expert, we need YOUR help! Bird watchers will gather inside the nature center at Shawnee Prairie Preserve (4267 St. Rt. 502 West) and count the birds that visit the bird-feeding station. Drop in anytime on Tuesday or Wednesday during the above times to help with the project. There will be warm drinks available for those enjoying nature from the comfort of an armchair on a cold winter’s day. For more information on Project FeederWatch or if you have questions about any of the many other programs offered by the Darke County Park District, call the Nature Center at (937) 548-0165.