Join the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association (SAAA) for an astronomy presentation in the Nature Center, followed by observatory and telescope viewing of the night sky (weather/cloud cover permitting).

FALL & WINTER SKY - This presentation will cover the major constellations available for viewing in the nighttime sky during the Autumn and Winter months, along with additional objects such as the visible planets, the Moon and other deep space objects. Possible targets of the Hemlock Astronomical Observatory will also be shared.

Registration is encouraged but not required.

Seeing seeds? Us too! Join us for a seedy hike with a naturalist, then learn how to write and illustrate what you observed and learned. We’ll wrap up by helping the Stewardship Crew collect seeds for the Ottawa County Parks seed bank. The Awareness, Art & Action program series provides participants an opportunity to grow in their awareness of the natural world as a catalyst for both artistic creativity and active stewardship.

Registration is required.

Witness the spectacle of fall waterfowl migration! Part 1 - Lakeshore Waterfowl will start at lakeshore in Grand Haven and explore areas Ottawa Sands and Harbor Island. Be prepared for cool & wet weather. Bring your own food and water. Details and meeting location will be emailed in advance to those registered.

Join us at the peak of Mt. Pisgah to watch for migrating birds of prey. Feel free to come and go as you like. Program length will depend upon the weather and the number of birds seen. Bring drinking water, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and binoculars (some loaners will be available).
Hike to summit is strenuous.

Registration is encouraged but not required.

Celebrate the start of the Coffee with the Birds Season by gathering with other bird lovers to witness the reveal of the Photo Contest winner and new Mug Club mug! Afterward, stay for an entertaining birding presentation.
Mug Reveal Event Schedule:
7:00pm – SOCIAL TIME! Enjoy some hot coco and cider while socializing with other bird lovers!
7:30pm – MUG REVEAL! Then be the first to know the winners of the Mug Club Photo Contest and which photo will be on the new mug!
8:00pm – PRESENTATION - Curtis will give a fun presentation about a birding adventure.
*This event will be live, in-person and also Livestreamed on the Ottawa County Parks YouTube Channel.

Registration is encouraged but not required.

The story of the ravines along the Grand River has many chapters. We’ll explore the setting, the soils and the impacts of humans on this landscape as we hike the trails at Grand Ravines North Park. This outdoor hike will meet at the trailhead north of the lodge.
The Earth Encounters series aims to introduce people to the amazing geologic features of, and stories behind, the landscapes of our region. Whether you’re learning about a specific mineral or the formation of an entire landscape, this program is bound to be engaging for all! This program can take the form of either an indoor presentation, outdoor hike, or combination of both.

Registration is encouraged but not required.

Celebrate the fall season by spending an evening around the campfire. This special event will include fun games, activities, a campfire, and more. There will be hotdogs available and S'more’s for dessert. If you'd like, you can dress up in your Halloween costume!

MEET OUTSIDE THE LODGE. If the weather is poor, we will move inside.

Registration is required.

Bring the whole family and explore nature with activities, crafts and more! There’s a different theme and location for each date so attend them all!
HELPING NATURE - Find out more about how people help nature and explore the projects that were completed at Ottawa Sands Park.

Registration is encouraged but not required.

Join us on a leisurely guided kayak trip down the Pigeon River, enjoying the sights and sounds as you paddle through the Hemlock Crossing and Pine Bend Parks. Kayak included in fee.

Registration is required.

Naturally Speaking is a speaker series designed to address a variety of topics related to natural, cultural and historical features of Ottawa County Parks, as well as updates on current & future parks projects.
The Shifting Landscape of Ottawa Sands - The Ottawa Sands landscape is defined by centuries of shifting. From the shifting sands of dune formation to shifting human influences on this unique landscape, the history of this property is as deep as the lake that currently stands as its centerpiece. Using images from past and present, this presentation will explore the complexities of the park’s geologic and human history as well as where it’s heading into the future.
*This presentation pairs perfectly with the six “Ottawa Sands: A Shifting Landscape” hikes scheduled for Sunday afternoons, 2-4pm from 10/20 – 11/24 at Ottawa Sands County Park.

Registration is encouraged but not required.

The Ottawa Sands landscape is defined by centuries of shifting. From the shifting sands of dune formation to shifting human influences on this unique landscape, the history of this property is as deep as the lake that currently stands as its centerpiece. This hike is a first-hand examination of the complexities of the park’s geologic and human history as well as where it’s heading into the future.
*This hike pairs perfectly with the two “Naturally Speaking: The Shifting Landscape of Ottawa Sands” presentations scheduled for Thursday evenings, 7-8:30 on 10/3 (Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing) and 11/7 (Grand Ravines Lodge).

REGISTRATION IS ENCOURAGED but not required.

Calling all nature lovers! Gather each month to learn new drawing and writing techniques specific to the theme and enjoy community connection with fellow journalers. The Nature Journal Club compliments an Introduction to Nature Journaling, however taking the class prior is not required. *Journals are not provided.

Registration is required.

Experience your favorite parks in a whole new way and see what nocturnal creatures lurk there as you explore by moonlight!

Registration is required.

Get out for a walk to revel in the seasonal changes of fall. You’ll venture all the way THRU these amazing parks along various greenways. Your guided experience allows you to both soak in the beauty and uniqueness of each park and socialize with fellow walkers.
MEET AT THE GRANDVILLE CLEAN WATER PLANT PARKING AREA: 15 Baldwin St, Jenison, MI 49428
Thru Hikes are free or reduced cost thanks to the support of the Ottawa County Parks Foundation through a health & wellness initiative!

Registration is encouraged but not required.

Kids ages 2-4 can bring their favorite grown up to sing songs, dance, and learn about nature together. We'll spend time making and moving to music based on a nature theme and go outside for a walk to explore it outdoors.

Registration is required. A caregiver must accompany any participating child and is included in the registration and fee.

Volunteer with us every 3rd Saturday!

Native plants are the foundation of a healthy ecosystem! Join us for an afternoon of native plant seed collection. Seed collected will be redistributed in our other parks to help improve biodiversity and restore habitats. All equipment and training will be provided.

What to wear: Closed toe shoes and long pants are recommended to protect against poison ivy and ticks.
What to bring: Water bottle and sunscreen or bug spray (if desired)
Where to meet: Riley Trails, main parking lot off of Riley St.
Directions: https://bit.ly/3SSKWFx
Weather policy: If constant rain or storms are forecast, this event will be canceled. In case of cancellation, all registrants will receive notice via email.

Registration is required.