BGS-Space Science Adventurer

Satisfies most of the requirements to earn the badge. See site’s website for details.


Birds of Prey

(5-Adult) Join a naturalist to learn about what makes birds of prey, also known as raptors, different from other birds. Participate in activities and discussions about how these fierce hunters have adapted to their environment and why they are essential creatures in our ecosystem. The class will end with a walk to search for signs of raptors all around us.


Campfire Night Hike - Predators at Night

(4-Adult) Enjoy a night hike to learn about nocturnal hunters. Listen to taped calls of owls and coyotes and possibly catch a glimpse of them in the forest. End the evening with s'mores round the campfire. Children must be accompanied by an adult registered in the program.


Campfire Saturdays - Stargazing (3-Adult)

(3-Adult) Enjoy a stroll along the lake shores and learn about the constellations, their stories and other night-sky features. Our astronomical naturalist will identify the stars and will have some telescopes to use. The program concludes with a campfire. S'mores ingredients provided. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.


First Sunrise Hike of the Year

(4-adult) Take a hike with a naturalist in the early morning to view the stunning first sunrise of the year as it crests over the lake. Rejuvenate as you walk along the park trails and signal in the new year. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.


First Sunset Hike of the Year

(4-Adult) Take a hike with a naturalist in the evening to view the stunning first sunset of the year as it sets over the lake. Rejuvenate as you walk along the park trails and signal in the new year. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.


Foraging for Wild Edibles

(9-Adult) With every season there are different blooms, leaves, roots, seeds and mushrooms that you can identify and eat. Learn how to eat from the forest safely and ethically as you join a Naturalist on a walk by the Lake. Please beware that foraging is prohibited in Fairfax County parks. This class will focus on how to safely identify various edible plants, as well as their uses. No plants will be picked during the course of the class.


Geocaching Adventures (8-Adult)

(8-Adult) Join us for a tour of caches throughout Fairfax County. Hunt for hidden treasures throughout our park system using a GPS. Join one class or sign up for them all. Equipment provided.


Home Made Bird Feeders

(2-Adult) Bring a clean, empty, plastic bottle to make a bird feeder. We discuss tips for feeding birds and learn to identify common birds that visit home bird feeders. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.


How to Say “Be Mine” in the Animal World

(3-Adult) Animals communicate in many ways. Learn how to express your affection in chimpanzee, toad, and wolf on this outdoors Valentine’s Day walk and talk. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.


Invasive Plant Identification Walk

(8-Adult) Identify some of Fairfax County's common invasive plant species. Explore ways to lessen these plants around your home.


JGS-Animal Habitats

Satisfies most of the requirements to earn the badge. See site’s website for details. This title allows online group registration.


Scavenger Hunt Adventure at the Lake

(4-Adult) Join a naturalist to learn about various nature topics that relate to the lake depending on the season. Then go on a scavenger hunt adventure to find different related objects around the lake and collect a small themed prize.


Sketching along the Lakeside

(13-Adult) Walk with a naturalist by the lakeside and learn techniques and tips for drawing the natural world. Gain a better understanding of how to utilize different sketching and observational skills. Bring the medium of your choice to the class.


Winter Bird Walk

(4-Adult) Take a hike through the woods with a naturalist to listen and look for the park’s winter avian residents and migrants. Find out what birds do to survive the winter weather. Register now.


Winter Wonderland Event at Burke Lake

(2-Adult) All aboard for a train ride on the Holiday Express. Take a spin on the Carolers Carousel, play Gingerbread Man Golf or warm yourself by the fire and cook s'mores as you usher in your holidays. Families will enjoy a visit with Santa, hot chocolate and candy canes. There are two options to purchase passes for the event; $15 pass on sale through the Thursday before the event or passes can be purchased day of event for $20. Passes can be picked up at ice cream parlor the day of the event. No refunds unless the event is cancelled. Children younger than 2 ride the carousel and the train for free but must pay for other activities including drinks, s'mores and the craft. Limited activity tickets available day of event at the park. Online registration ends the Thursday before the day of the event at 5 p.m. Register now.


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