Events
Family fun days, festivals, nature walks and so much more!
September 2
Hoosier Riverwatch Training
This basic training is an introduction to the Hoosier Riverwatch program and different hands-on water quality monitoring methods. Participants will learn about aquatic habitats and will be trained in chemical and biological assessment techniques. Session will be held in- and out-of-doors. All interested persons (age 18+) are welcome to attend free of charge. No previous experience necessary.
September 3
Bike Hike
Pump up your tires and put your helmets on for a bike hike along the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail. Join a naturalist for a 10-mile ride through the beautiful countryside enjoying the fresh air, birds, and blooms along the way. Bikers will start at Abshire Park (directions here), travel 5 miles to C.R. 33 intersection, and turn around for a 5-mile ride back to Abshire. Join us for fun, exercise, and sunshine!
September 6
September 7
Wednesday Bird Walk
As migration kicks into high gear, witness the spectacle at one of the best birding hotspots in the county. Tracing the Elkhart River corridor, the Preserve provides a crucial stopping point for south-bound birds to rest and refuel. The timing is perfect to look for seasonal specialties, like Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Yellow-throated Vireo, and on a good hike, over 20 warbler species. At peak migration, we may also encounter a number of rare birds for our region, so don’t miss out on this special extended walk. The group will head out at 8 a.m. – please plan travel time accordingly.
Meet at Benton Dam in River Preserve County Park (Directions here).
September 7
September 17
Volunteer Work Day
Learn new skills, care for the environment, meet new friends, and be a part of something big – sign up for a Volunteer Work Day! On 9/17, assist in the removal of invasive plants, such as bush honeysuckle, autumn olive, and tree of heaven. Meet at the Baintertown Dam parking lot in River Preserve County Park, located on C.R. 142 in Goshen. Directions here. Plan to bring water and work gloves. Insect repellent and long pants are recommended. Advanced registration required.
♥ LOVE THE PARKS? Find out more ways to lend a hand.
September 17
Animal Tracks
Every day, wildlife leave stories behind with each step they take. Learn the art of tracking, what field marks to look for, and other ways to identify the critters behind the clues. Participants will start by learning how to create their own molds, followed by a guided hike using handouts and tips to identify a few animals along the way.
September 19
Trail Trekkers: Prairies
Outdoor explorers (ages 6-9) are invited to explore the amazing prairie ecosystem. Learn to ID common prairie plants, study the amazing prairie food web, and discover the history of prairies in northern Indiana. The entire program will be outdoors, so please dress appropriately.
September 20
Hiking Club
Join our Hiking Club to explore a different park trail every month, make new friends, and glimpse the bounty of nature around every curve and corner. Hiking Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month (March – October). This month, we’ll take a 2-mile hike along the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail. Meet at the trailhead at Abshire Park (1302 E Lincoln Ave, Goshen – Directions Here).
September 21
Open House at the Schoolhouse
Grab your schoolbooks and step back a century as you explore the One-room Schoolhouse at Bonneyville Mill County Park. Imagine yourself a student sitting in one of the small wooden desks, practicing your handwriting on the heavy slate boards, while keeping warm next to the wood-burning stove. As you catch a glimpse of what life was like for the average run-of-the-mill student, staff will be on-site to answer any questions you may have during these open hours.
September 22
Yoga in the Park
Join Registered Yoga Teacher, Amanda, for an hour of empowering yoga in the parks. Enjoy guided practice welcoming of all skill levels in a relaxing park environment. Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather, bring water, and their own mats. Participants are required to register in advance.
September 23
Prairie Hike
Discover what a prairie would have looked like 200 years ago on a hike exploring the beautiful restored grasslands at Boot Lake Nature Preserve. There will be a short introduction on the history of the Boot Lake property, followed by a hike through the prairie to seek out some of the unique plant life and learn about their significance and history.
September 23
Friday Night at the Museum
In the past, Bristol would hold a watermelon festival when farmers in the area would bring watermelon and other produce into the town where market owners would buy them and ship them throughout the Midwest. To mark this celebration, this Friday Night at the Museum, you can learn about the festival, what harvest time would look like in the past, and of course, enjoy some watermelon!
September 23
Summer Upcycling Workshop
T-shirt season is almost over! Bring in those shirts you know won’t make it to next summer and learn how to make them into coasters and produce bags at this workshop. The class will also include how to make baskets from old paper bags and jewelry beads from old newspapers. Crafters are encouraged to bring in their own materials, but we will have plenty extra for those who need it.
