Welcome Back !
This reflects the system time which determines when inventory becomes available.
Our registration system was recently updated! Activities (classes, camps, events) – New look, same search!
Maximize Your Search Results Enter the activity title in the Search Text field for the quickest search. To conduct a broader search, we recommend applying multiple filters for the most precise and efficient search experience. This approach helps narrow down your options and minimizes the number of pages you need to browse. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find exactly what you're looking for.
(9-13 yrs.) Join us for the ultimate outdoor camp! Activities include fishing, hiking, off road biking, animal tracking, and animal identification. Bring lunch, snack and water bottle daily. Camps run rain or shine. Contact the park for details on extreme weather days. No camp July 3.
(5-Adult) Listen to the frogs singing at night and learn how to identify them based on their calls. Program includes a night hike to learn and identify different frog calls and see what other amphibians we can find hiding amongst the shadows.
(5-Adult) Challenge misconceptions about frequently misunderstood animals like snapping turtles, nonvenomous snakes, spiders and other fascinating creatures. Participants will learn to distinguish harmless Dekay's brown snake from copperheads, understand their ecological roles and develop appreciation for these important species.
(5-Adult) Young scientists will discover Nature’s Superhero Powers. This outdoor adventure transforms young explorers into biomimicry detectives studying amphibians amazing chemical defenses.
(5-Adult) Meet small creatures with giant engineering secrets, like live invertebrates including millipedes, beetles and other arthropods. The program uses microscopy and hands - on investigation to explore insect engineering. Participants discover how insects build structures, communicate chemically and solve engineering problems at microscopic scales. Perfect for introducing young children to entomology and structural engineering principles.
(2-7 yrs.) Join a naturalist to discover the various wildlife that can be found in the lake. Search for tadpoles, insects, and frogs to catch and release, while also learning about what makes each creature special. Bring old shoes that can get wet and muddy.
(7-Adult) Solve the Woodland Mysteries. Participants learn forensic science techniques applied to wildlife investigation. Using microscopy, evidence collection and data analysis, participants solve authentic woodland mysteries. This program bridges forensic science with wildlife biology.
(5-Adult) Join a naturalist to learn the basics of fishing while enjoying the beauty of the lakefront. Gain a better understanding of not only how to fish, but also how we can better connect with the natural world while participating in recreational activities, such as fishing. Rod and bait will be provided. Participants 16 and older must have a valid Virginia fishing license.
(5-Adult) Enjoy the beauty of the lakefront at sunset while learning the basics of fishing with a naturalist. Many fish like to come up to eat when the water cools after a hot day, making it a great time to fish with family members and enjoy each other’s company. Rod and bait will be provided. Participants 16 and older must have a valid Virginia fishing license.
(9-Adult) This program explores nature’s medicine cabinet, how animals self - medicate and introduces families to medicinal plants in the local ecosystem. Learn sustainable foraging practices and discover indigenous plant wisdom. The program emphasizes conservation ethics while connecting families to traditional ecological knowledge.
(8-Adult) Join our park naturalist on a hike and explore wild plants and animals throughout the trails. Learn how to use the iNaturalist app to take pictures of things you find along the way. Smart phones, cameras and binoculars welcome. Each hike will feature a different theme and may include: salamanders, birds and other wildlife, wildflowers, trees, nature photography, cultural history, or a scenic destination.
(12-Adult) This introductory-level class is perfect for beginners or for those who want to learn how to paddle more efficiently. Learn about different kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices and safety gear. On the water learn to move the boat in every direction using different strokes and maneuvers. All kayaks, paddles and necessary safety equipment is included.
(12-Adults) Learn the fundamentals of kayaking in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Discover proper strokes and paddling techniques. Understand the basics of water safety and how to plan a pleasant paddling experience. All kayaks, paddles and necessary safety equipment is included.
(6-10 yrs.) Campers enjoy guided nature hikes, crafts, fishing and boat rides (if available). Shaded trails and lakefronts are perfect settings for exploring creatures and plants that live in our streams, lakes and forests. Bring lunch, snack and water bottle. Lake Accotink meets at the large shelter by marina. Camps run rain or shine. Contact park for details on extreme weather days. No camp July 3.