This monthly series invites active adults to join a Virginia Master Naturalist on a nature hike that blends outdoor exercise, social engagement, and outdoor learning.

Take part in a fun and exciting hands-on learning experience with your grown-up pal! Each class will focus on a different outdoor related topic while exploring the park. Classes are predominantly held outside, please remember to dress to be outside for the weather. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Activities are available for all scout levels and multiple scouting organizations such as Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, and American Heritage Girls. These programs can fulfil requirements for many adventures, journeys, badges, etc. Adult must accompany scouts. Leaders and chaperones are free. Minimum fees apply. Call 571-258-3700 for information and to make reservations.

Stop by the Visitor Center any day of the week between 9am and 5pm to visit with our live animals and explore a wealth of interesting items. Check out interesting displays, partake in activities, or join in on a Community Science Project. Themes vary so stop by often!

Enjoy a relaxing morning fishing at our stocked ponds. Don't worry if you don’t have equipment or experience. Staff will be available to provide assistance and bait. Poles are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Price is per child ages 4 and up and must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration required for all ages.

Take a walk to appreciate the world around you. Check out the serene ponds and majestic forests. Stop by the campfire after the walk for toasted marshmallows (provided, Halal available). Ages 3 and under free but must be accompanied by registered adult. Pre-registration required.

Experience wildlife after hours during this magical evening adventure! Join a Virginia Master Naturalist on a hike through moonlit woodlands while using bionic ears to amplify the sounds of night. Stay after for a campfire and s’mores, depending on weather. Rain date is the day after. Contact [email protected] for private group information.

There is nothing quite like a cold glass of fresh lemonade after a Spring stroll in the woods! We’ll walk an easy 1-2 miles to Goose Creek for wildlife and wildflower viewing, before returning to the Visitor’s Center for a treat. We welcome participants to sit and enjoy their fresh lemonade on the back porch. Appropriate for all ages. Meet at the Visitor Center.

1000 HOURS OUTSIDE GUIDED HIKE SERIES
1000 Hours Outside is a global movement designed for any child (or adult) and any environment. Banshee Reeks will host monthly themed hikes to help you join the 1000 Hours Outside challenge. Let’s go!

Learn to identify and appreciate local tree species from a Virginia Master Naturalist as you explore different habitats. Expect to hike 1-2 miles over varied terrain. Best for ages 8 and up. Meet at the Visitor Center.

Get down and dirty while growing your garden knowledge! This hands-on series offers participants the opportunity to learn-by-doing as you work alongside a veteran gardener in the Banshee Reeks garden. Topics will include preparing & planting beds, soil amendment, pruning & propagating, composting, weeding, organic pest control, and native plant selection. MAY focus is Sowing Seeds and Transplanting Seedlings. Meet at the Demonstration Garden. All ages, including adults with small children, are welcome!

Explore and observe the magic of local plants, then get your hands dirty planting your own native flower, tree, or shrub. Each interactive class includes gardening tips, pest management techniques, and best practices for attracting pollinators. Participants will take home their own pollinator seedling. Meet at the Education Complex and come prepared to get dirty. All ages welcome!

(All Ages) Enjoy a morning of fishing around Hanson Park’s largest pond, located behind the Lodge and Nature Center. Entries receive prizes and there will be optional lessons available to all. Those 16 and up must have a valid VA freshwater fishing license. The price is per person and every child must be accompanied by an adult.

(All Ages) Join a Master Naturalist for a free nature walk through our wooded trails. During the walk, you will learn about the plants and animals that make our park a thriving ecosystem. Please dress for the weather and mulched trails. This program begins at the Hanson Park Nature Center. No registration required.

(All Ages) Let the arrows fly with new friends and family. Learn range safety, the basic parts of a bow and arrow, and get to shoot compound bows while playing archery games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults must be registered to participate. Section 01 is for ages 8 – 10; section 02 is for ages 11-14; section 03 is for adults and families over 8 years old.

(All Ages) You can contribute to science! All it takes is a camera/phone/tablet. Come to the Hanson Park Nature Center and learn how to become a citizen scientist.

(All Ages) Enjoy a leisurely naturalist-led birding stroll through Hanson Park. Learn the basics of birding and the common Spring birds in Hanson Park in this program. Binoculars available. The price is per person and every child must be accompanied by an adult.

Join us for a Family Camp Out at DCC! Bring your tents for a night under the stars in our field. Enjoy late-night playground fun, indoor movies with movie boxes, and a delicious cookout at the pavilion. It's a perfect opportunity for family bonding and unforgettable memories! *per person payment*

There’s never been a story time like this! We explore nature stories and wildlife topics each month through interactive hands-on play and crafts. Storytime takes place outdoors in the children’s play area on the 4th Tuesday each month. After story time, we’ll embark on an easy walk in the woods connected to the seasonal stories we share – from frog finding to mushroom hunting, bird calls, and more! In the event of rain, meet in the Education Complex.