Most programs are free. If a fee is charged, it will be indicated in the program description. Most outdoor activities are conducted rain or shine. Please come prepared for the weather and the activity. Unless otherwise stated, children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Limited space programs require pre-registration. Please register by calling the Nature Center at 937-548-0165 or email us.
Three months at a glance program calendar

Parent & Preschooler Adventures
Hour long, hands-on nature programs designed for parents and their 2-5 year olds. Wed. classes are for 2-3 year olds, and Thurs. classes are for 4-5 year olds. $2 fee for craft materials. Pre-registration is required.
This season's programs

Park P.A.L.S
Morning hands-on nature programs designed for 6-9 year olds. Programs are held the second Saturday of each month, and are supervised by adult volunteers. $3 fee for snack and craft. Pre-registration is required.
This season's programs

Junior Naturalists
Afternoon hands-on nature programs designed for 10-12 year olds. Programs are held the third or fourth Saturday of each month. Independent projects are also planned. $4 fee for materials. Pre-registration is required.
This season's programs

Day Camps
A winter day camp is offered every February. Also, week long day camps are offered in June and July. Age groups are 6-7 year olds, 8-9 year olds, and 10-12 year olds. Fee is dependant on camp level. Themes change every year.
Winter camp info

Nature's Classroom
School field trip programs designed to supplement Ohio's K-6 science curriculum. $2 fee/student includes a pre-visit classroom activity packet. Teachers and chaperones are free. Speak with a Naturalist to schedule.
Program themes by grade level

Naturalist In The Classroom
Classroom visits by a DCP naturalist for teachers who participate in Nature's Classroom. Natural history themes focus on native wildlife and cultures. Available to all teachers during the months of November to March.
Program themes by grade level

Outdoor Skills
Learn a new outdoor hobby, without having to buy all the equipment! These programs put you under the guidance of local experts, and put the right equipment in your hands. Some programs have materials fees.
This season's programs

Canoeing Adventures
Weather dependent canoe outings for beginning and experienced paddlers. All equipment and transportation are provided with a fee of $5 per person.
This season's floats

Geocaching In The Parks
We'll provide the info and equipment you need to get started on a high-tech treasure hunt. Rent a GPS for $2 to find five "caches" at Shawnee. Go to the geocaching website, enter zipcode 45331, and discover our other caches.
Geocaching.com website

Naturalists can adapt any program to your group's needs, whether it's a scout badge, homeschool group, meeting entertainment, day-camp field trip, or recruitment event. Programs are usually held at the Nature Center and are 1-2 hours in length. Speak with a Naturalist to schedule.
Group program themes

Naturalist led hikes, expert guest speakers, and fun family activities are all program offerings with a focus on the natural wonders of Darke County. Enjoy natural history topics from birds and bats to wildflowers and wetlands.
This season's programs

Parks programs highlighting Darke County's important arts, history and culture include outdoor concerts, art exhibits, talks by expert historians and archaeologists, and first-person historical interpreters.
This season's programs

Throughout the year, Darke County Parks hosts a number of seasonal special events that celebrate our natural and cultural heritage. Everyone is sure to enjoy a festive day in the Parks.
Special events calendar