Events

This adventurous wellness program is geared for those interested in learning how to kayak. Enjoy approximately six miles of easy paddling for approximately two hours on the normally gentle, tree lined Swatara Creek. This guided two-hour evening paddle will let you discover firsthand why many are getting involved in this healthy life-long hobby. Guides will provide kayak skill instruction before and during the trip. Participants should be in moderate physical condition and prepared to be physically active. Everything is provided including kayaks, equipment, shuttle, guides, and safety instruction. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Participants must be at least 6 years of age to participate. Participants between ages 6-9 years old must be in a 2-person kayak with a responsible adult. A parent or other responsible adult must participate in the program. No one under the age of 18 can participate without a participating parent, adult family member, or guardian. Adventure Awaits programs are supported by Visit Hershey & Harrisburg Adventure Trail.

Join Penn State Master Gardeners for a leisurely one-hour stroll to learn about plants in the park. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Gather inspiration for your garden, get your gardening questions answered, and gain unique experiences of your local gardens and county parks. Also learn to ID plants, pollinators, insects, and diseases. The Master Gardeners are trained and knowledgeable and eager to share their knowledge with you. A Park Rx wellness program sponsored by Highmark Blue Shield and presented by Penn State Extension Master Gardeners. Pre-registration required; space is limited. Meet up specifics will be provided via email to registered participants.

Sprouts ages 4 and 5 will discover nature through hands-on activities. Spend the day exploring the outdoors through discovery and sensory walks, stories, crafts and much more. Learn about the different plants and animals that call Wildwood Park home. Chaperones are not required to stay with their sprouts. Registration limited to 15 campers.   Registration will open Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 6:00 AM.

Junior Naturalists ages 9 to 11 interested in the flora and fauna of Wildwood Park will spend the week learning about species identification and natural history. Topics explored include life beneath the water, mammal skulls, amphibians, reptiles, trees and fungi. Discover new habitats while visiting Detweiler Park and enjoy a live animal presentation. Various activities such as hiking, journaling/sketching, and specimen collection will also be included. Please register for only one week; activities and topics will be repeated. Registrationis limited to 20 campers.

Sprouts ages 4 and 5 will discover nature through hands-on activities. Spend the day exploring the outdoors through discovery and sensory walks, stories, crafts and much more. Learn about the different plants and animals that call Wildwood Park home. Chaperones are not required to stay with their sprouts. Registration limited to 15 campers.   Registration will open Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 6:00 AM.

Junior Naturalists ages 9 to 11 interested in the flora and fauna of Wildwood Park will spend the week learning about species identification and natural history. Topics explored include life beneath the water, mammal skulls, amphibians, reptiles, trees and fungi. Discover new habitats while visiting Detweiler Park and enjoy a live animal presentation. Various activities such as hiking, journaling/sketching, and specimen collection will also be included. Please register for only one week; activities and topics will be repeated. Registrationis limited to 20 campers.

On this slow-paced walk, you will be invited to experience your breathing, senses, and the natural environment at various locations throughout Wildwood Park. Participants should be able to walk about 1- 1.5 miles on paved, gravel, and wood plank trails with some elevation gain. The program concludes with a lovely forest tea. What is Forest Bathing? Forest Bathing or shinrin yoku is a nature-based mindfulness practice and experience of interconnection with physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits. Re-engage the wonder and awe of play, create space for your Eco-grief, and connect with Earth. Preregistration is required. Space is limited. A Park Rx wellness program sponsored by Highmark Blue Shield.

Children ages 6 to 8 will learn about animal adaptations, explore aquatic life in Paxton Creek and enjoy a live animal presentation. Each day will focus on a new, fun topic about our local plants and animals and include nature themed activities and crafts. Please register for only one week. Registration limited to 20 campers. 

Children ages 6 to 8 will learn about animal adaptations, explore aquatic life in Paxton Creek and enjoy a live animal presentation. Each day will focus on a new, fun topic about our local plants and animals and include nature themed activities and crafts. Please register for only one week. Registration limited to 20 campers. 

Outdoor enthusiasts ages 12 to 14 will spend the week in nature exploring the natural world and learning basic wilderness survival skills. Each day will include a hike and digging deeper into a different aspect of survival. Activities may include fire building, wild edibles, water filtration, and navigation skills. Discover the importance of teamwork during daily “initiative” challenges and activities. The week will also include an off-site hiking trip and tandem kayaking experience. Registration is limited to 18 campers.