Events
Family fun days, festivals, nature walks and so much more!
December 4
Wed. Bird Walk: 12 Birds of Xmas
In the spirit of the season, we’re giving the classic “12 Days of Christmas” an all-avian spin! Join in the festive fun as we set off on a group challenge to find the “12 Birds of Christmas”, all found right here in Ox Bow County Park! Come hear the stories and lore of the original birds behind the carol, and feel free to sing along as we spot the 12 (new) birds on this fun scavenger hunt. Just don’t blame us if the song gets stuck in your head.
• What to Expect: Come prepared for a 2-mile hike.
• Suggested Gear: Hiking boots & weather-ready layers.
December 4
December 6
Books & Boots
The Elkhart Public Library has teamed up with the Elkhart County Parks to offer a book club for kids! Each meeting will include a book discussion followed by a park-led activity exploring one of the book’s environmental themes. Activities could include hikes, live animals, and more. Visit the Elkhart Public Library’s website to check out a copy of this month’s book.
December 6
Winter Mutt Strut
Enjoy a casual morning walk with your dog exploring the winter beauty of Ox Bow County Park. You and your dog will experience the many sounds, sights, and smells the park has to offer and get to know other dog walkers, too. Water and doggy bags will be available for participants. All dogs must be on a leash and controlled at all times.
December 7
Sourdough Workshop
Introducing the Subsistence Series – a collection of programs that traces the historical roots of traditional skills. The pilot program of this series is a Sourdough Workshop, led by Shari Graber of Graber Family Farm. Participants will learn about the historical context of sourdough baking, take part in a hands-on demonstration, and go home with their own starter kit.
December 7
Forest Bathing
Experience a two-hour guided forest bathing walk with certified guide, Juli. A series of guided, meditative invitations to find your own authentic way of interacting with the land will be offered. There is no right or wrong way to do it…just be yourself. All are welcome in the forest.
December 9
December 14
Corson Riverwoods Walk
Explore many of the 82 acres of our newest park property on a guided hike. Enjoy the hard surface trail, pollinator play path stations, modern restroom, and other coming amenities. The hike will last approximately 1 hour as we explore this lovely property together.
• Getting There: Corson Riverwoods is located north of Middlebury at the corner of C.R. 12 & 37 (12773 C.R. 12) – [ View Map Directions ]
December 17
Illuminated Trail Hike
Not a fan of hiking in the dark? No worries — the Elkhart County Parks is keeping the lights on just for you! Hike a trail with illuminated markers guiding the way and enjoy the sights and sounds of Bonneyville Mill County Park on a winter’s night. Hikers can start any time between 5:30 and 7:30 from the Feedlot Shelter trailhead. The hike will end at the One-Room Schoolhouse with hot chocolate and cookies made with Bonneyville flour to make the evening complete.
December 21
Animal Tracking
Learn the ins and outs of tracking animals using prints, scat and other signs. All participants will receive a small animal tracking guidebook to use during the program and take home. Entire program is outdoors, so please dress appropriately.
Meet at: Benton Spillway in River Preserve County Park, located 1 mile south of U.S. 33 on C.R. 31. in Goshen (Directions here).
