July

Friday, July 1; Stream Study
Nixon Park, 6–7:30pm
Join park volunteer Jodi Sulpizio to take an in-depth look at the life in a stream habitat. Participants will search for aquatic macroinvertebrates such as mayfly, stonefly, dragonfly, and damselfly nymphs, as well as caddisfly larva, cranefly larva, water pennies and more. Using the biotic index, we will assess the health of the stream and discuss influences affecting the water quality. NF, register at 428-1961.

Saturday, July 2–Sunday, July 10; Reptile Week
Nixon Park, regular hours
This annual week of herpetology returns with live specimens, special programs and information. Staff will be available to answer questions, explain the unique nature of reptiles, and give you a hands-on introduction. Reptile Week is designed to give a gentle and informative introduction to lizards, snakes, turtles and crocodilians. VISITORS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO BRING PETS TO NIXON PARK. NF, NR.

Saturday, July 2; Critter Caravans Show
Nixon Park, 11am–12 noon & 1–2pm
Come laugh and learn with Tom Moore of Critter Caravans. Tom will bring learning to life with live reptiles from around the world. Participants will learn about reptiles’ native habitats, their eating habits, and about conservation of the animals during this hands-on show. NF, NR.

Sunday, July 3; Wallace-Cross Mill Open House
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30pm
Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. Tour guides will guide you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities.  NF, NR. 

Sunday, July 3; PA Reptiles and Amphibians
Nixon Park, 2:30–4pm
Join Park Naturalist Kelsey Frey for a hands-on presentation focusing on PA’s native reptiles and amphibians. Participants will learn the natural history of these local critters as well as their role in the environment. NF, NR.

Monday, July 4; Independence Day
Parks office and Nature Center closed. Park grounds, boat concession and Hanover Junction and New Freedom Stations open.

Monday, July 4; New Freedom and Hanover Junction Train Stations Open
Rail Trail, 1–5pm

Monday, July 4; Multi-Borough Fireworks
Highpoint Scenic Vista, dusk
On a clear night, you can see fireworks from maybe a dozen different shows from atop York County’s river hills park.

Tuesday, July 5; Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Glen Rock Parking Area, 6:30–9pm
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NR.

Tuesday, July 5; Fox Story Time: “Scales and Tails”
Nixon Park, 9:30–11:30am
Enjoy exciting stories, crafts and activities about our reptilian friends—snakes, turtles, lizards, and crocs—with park volunteer Linette Mansberger. Participants will also take a short stroll to the pond to look for some basking reptiles. This program is for a parent to spend with a child ages 4–7. $5, register at 428-1961.

Tuesday, July 5 & Thursday, July 7; Feeding Time
Nixon Park, 1–2pm
Ever wondered how to care for a reptile? Then come and learn from park volunteer Anne Rutledge and Park Naturalist Amber Carothers as they feed Nixon’s reptiles. Visitors will discover the ins and outs of caring for these scaly critters. NF, register at 428-1961.

Wednesday, July 6; Critter Caravans Show
Nixon Park, 6:30–7:30pm (building open 6–8pm)
Come laugh and learn with Tom Moore of Critter Caravans. Tom will bring learning to life with live reptiles from around the world. Participants will learn about reptiles’ native habitats, their eating habits, and about conservation of the animals during this hands-on show. NF, NR.

Wednesday, July 6; Family Rambles
Rocky Ridge Park, Oak Timbers Parking Area, 6:30–7:30pm
Led by Parks Board Member Anne Walko and her 8-year-old daughter, families are invited to four fun-filled wanders. This program’s aim is to leave no child inside as recent research finds that children who get outdoors are happier, healthier and smarter. One hour for children who can walk; adults must be accompanied by a child. NF, NR.

Wednesday, July 6; Porch Talks at the Stations
New Freedom Train Station, 7–8pm
Station greeters Chuck Neal and David Smith will present “Working on the Railroad.” The museum will be open at 6pm for guests. NF, NR.

Friday, July 8; Moonlight Boat Ride
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 8:30pm
Take a quiet ride on Lake Redman after dark to explore the world of nocturnal life. Explore the many inlets of the lake, but keep your eyes open for the bats! A 30-minute astronomical tour around the sky is included. After boating, participants will be treated to ice cream sundaes and other refreshments. You may use a County-owned rowboat, pedal boat, canoe or kayak or your private boat. Participants need to bring their own flashlight for each boat. Floatation devices and rowing implements are furnished. $30/couple if using a County-owned boat or $20/couple for a private boat. Add $5 for each individual. Please register at 840-7440. 

Saturday, July 9; Family Fishing Program
Kain Park, Spartan Rd. Parking Lot, 9am–12 noon
No skill or equipment necessary. Adam Spangler from the PA Fish and Boat Commission will be on hand to help you start learning to fish or to sharpen your skills. NF, register with Adam at 705-7850 or adspangler@state.pa.us.

Saturday, July 9; Critter Caravans Show
Nixon Park, 11am–12 noon & 1–2pm
Come laugh and learn with Tom Moore of Critter Caravans. Tom will bring learning to life with live reptiles from around the world. Participants will learn about reptiles’ native habitats, their eating habits, and about conservation of the animals during this hands-on show. NF, NR.

Sunday, July 10; Wallace-Cross Mill Open House
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30pm
Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. Tour guides will guide you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities.  NF, NR.

Sunday, July 10; Eastern Box Turtles
Nixon Park, 2:30–4pm
Join park staff for an in-depth look at Eastern Box Turtles (research and natural history). Participants will learn what challenges these turtles are facing now and into the future. NF, NR.

Monday, July 11–Friday, July 15; Archaeology Week I
Nixon Park, 9am–3pm
For ages 9–12. Co-sponsored with the York County Heritage Trust, this working week will be rewarding as students do “real archaeology” at the site of the 18th century Mary Ann Furnace. Students will learn proper techniques of doing archaeology and its interpretation and preservation. Each day, the students will be treated to a special themed program. On Wednesday, the group will travel to Pine Grove State Park to examine a furnace and its village. Transportation will be provided by Red Lion Bus Company. Students must supply their own lunch and beverage. $150, register at 840-7440.

Tuesday, July 12; Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Railroad Parking Area, 6:30–9pm
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NR.

Thursday, July 14; Family Morning Discovery Walk
Spring Valley, Sunlight Road Parking Lot, 10–11:30am
Children and their companions together with park staff will explore and discover the many different habitats, plants, and animals in the park. NF, register at 428-1961. 

Thursday, July 14; Archaeology Walk
Codorus State Park, Rummel Farm parking area, 7–8:30pm
York County Parks Archaeology Week students will be in the middle of their digs. Learn how these archaeologists have worked to uncover the structures and artifacts that help tell the story of the historic Mary Ann Furnace. NF, register at 428-1961.

Friday, July 15; Moonlight Boat Ride
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 8:30pm
Take a quiet ride on Lake Redman after dark to explore the world of nocturnal life. Explore the many inlets of the lake, but keep your eyes open for the bats! A 30-minute astronomical tour around the sky is included. After boating, participants will be treated to ice cream sundaes and other refreshments. You may use a County-owned rowboat, pedal boat, canoe or kayak or your private boat. Participants need to bring their own flashlight for each boat. Floatation devices and rowing implements are furnished. $30/couple if using a County-owned boat or $20/couple for a private boat. Add $5 for each individual. Please register at 840-7440. 

Saturday, July 16–Sunday, July 24; Photography Contest on Display
Nixon Park Nature Center, during normal hours
All photos entered in the photography contest will be on display for the public to view.

Saturday, July 16; Moonlight Bike Ride - This ride’s theme: Civil War
Rail Trail, Hanover Junction Parking Area, 8:30pm
Take a 9-mile ride under a bright moon, learning about local history and nature. Tonight’s special program: birds of prey. Light refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the ride. $5, children under the age of 12 are free, NR.

Sunday, July 17; Wallace-Cross Mill Open House & Corn Roast
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30pm
Tour the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill. Listen as guides explain the history and the role mills played in a community. Then enjoy freshly fire-roasted corn and cold drinks on the banks of the old mill stream. NR, tours free, refreshments nominal charge.

Sunday, July 17; Bats Demystified
Nixon Park, 2:30–4pm
If you think bats suck your blood, get tangled in your hair, and are filthy, flying rats, you’re wrong! Come and join volunteer Linette Mansberger to learn more about bats as she dispels many myths about our flying, nocturnal friends. NF, NR.

Tuesday, July 19; Kayak Lessons
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 6 pm–dusk
Join Uller’s Kayak and Canoe Shop on the water to learn the basics of kayaking. Instruction and boat rental $15. Class size limited; call Uller’s at 747-0095 to register.

Tuesday, July 19; Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, New Freedom Parking Area, 6:30–9pm
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NR.

Wednesday, July 20; Family Rambles
Rocky Ridge Park, Oak Timbers Parking Area, 6:30–7:30pm
Led by Parks Board Member Anne Walko and her 8-year-old daughter, families are invited to four fun-filled wanders. This program’s aim is to leave no child inside as recent research finds that children who get outdoors are happier, healthier and smarter. One hour for children who can walk; adults must be accompanied by a child. NF, NR.

Wednesday, July 20; Fox Story Time: “Creatures of the Night”
Rudy Park, Scotch Pine Pavilion, 6:30–8:30pm
Join park volunteer Jodi Sulpizio to learn more about nocturnal animals. Participants will enjoy a story, crafts and activities. This program is for a parent to spend with a child ages 4–7. $5, register at 428-1961.

Wednesday, July 20; Canoe Tour and Lake Cleanup
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 9–11:30am
Join Park Naturalist Kelsey Frey for a paddle-powered tour of the lake. We will observe aquatic animals and birds and learn about plants and water quality issues that affect them. We’ll pause from our tour to confiscate litter around the lake. No experience necessary. Please dress for the weather. $5/person. You can bring your own boat or rent a canoe for $10. Register at 428-1961.

Wednesday, July 20; Porch Talks at the Stations
New Freedom Train Station, 7–8pm
Train Station 1944 Salute—Living History Re-enactors from Gettysburg will present this program of how troops were transported across America during WW II. Museum will be open at 6pm for guests. NF, NR.

Saturday, July 23; Butterfly Count
Nixon Park, Count 9am–2pm, Social 2pm
All eyes, novice and expert, are needed as we conduct our annual Butterfly Count as part of the North American Butterfly Association’s Fourth of July Count. Participants will join group leaders to search different areas throughout a 7.5 mile radius around Nixon Park. Long pants recommended. Bring a bagged lunch, a field guide and binoculars. An ice-cream social will follow the count at 2pm. The count is open to ages 10 to adult. $3 NABA fee, register at 428-1961.

Saturday, July 23; Children’s Butterfly Count
Nixon Park, 10am & 12noon
After learning about our scaly fluttering friends through activities and a story, children will grab nets and bug boxes and venture into the garden to explore. Ages 7 and up. NF, NR.

Saturday, July 23; DreamWrights Presents “Much Ado About Nothing”
Kain Park, Lake Redman Activity Area, 6:30pm
The adults and youth of this performing company return to our stage for another year. Please bring a chair or blanket to sit on. NF, NR.

Sunday, July 24; Wallace-Cross Mill Open House
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30pm
Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. Tour guides will guide you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities.  NF, NR.

Sunday, July 24; Backyard Chickens
Nixon Park, 2:30–4pm
Interested in raising chickens for fun and food? Local homegrown chicken owner Beth Lucabaugh will share her 9 years of experience going from chick to egg layer. NF, NR.

Monday, July 25–Friday, July 29; Nature Discovery Program III
Nixon & Kain Parks and Rail Trail, 9am–3pm
For ages 9–12. Combine hiking, boating, nature study and survival as you get one of the most exciting weeks of the summer. Students will hike the trails at Nixon and Kain Parks and explore the Susquehanna River with Shank’s Mare Outfitters. $130, register at 840-7440.

Tuesday, July 26; Senior Excursion
Rail Trail Park, Hanover Junction Parking Area, 10am, 12noon, 2pm & 7pm
Take a ride on an open-air “People Mover” to view the scenery of this secluded portion of the Rail Trail, narrated by Parks Program Coordinator Jeri Jones. Trip will also pass through Howard Tunnel. $8, register at 840-7440.

Tuesday, July 26; Sunset Scramble Bike Ride
Rail Trail, Brillhart Station Parking Area, 6:30–9pm
Take a 12- to 15-mile moderately paced ride for exercise and make friends with fellow riders. See historic structures such as Howard Tunnel, Hanover Junction Train Station and New Freedom Train Station. Each rider must have a helmet, a light and water. Bring money for a snack along the way. NF, NR.

Tuesday, July 26; York County Parks Advisory Board Meeting
Pleasant Acres Annex, 7pm

Wednesday, July 27; Panorama from Highpoint
Highpoint Scenic Vista and Recreation Area, 10am
This audience participation program, led by Parks Program Coordinator Jeri Jones and Lancaster County Parks Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel, will have you answering questions like, what is the furthest thing you can see on a clear day, what history is revealed in the panoramic view, what landmarks can be seen, and more. NF, register at 428-1961.

Tuesday, July 26; DreamWrights Presents “Much Ado About Nothing”
Rudy Park, 6:30pm
The adults and youth of this performing company return to our stage for another year. Please bring a chair or blanket to sit on. NF, NR.

Thursday, July 28; Family Morning Discovery Walk
Raab Park, 10–11:30am
Children and their companions together with park staff will explore and discover the many different habitats, plants, and animals in the park. NF, register at 428-1961.

Saturday, July 30; Gold Panning Seminar
Spring Valley Park, Line Road Parking Area, 9am–2pm
Experience the excitement of finding gold in an area stream. Park staff and members of the South Central Chapter of the Gold Prospectors & Treasure Hunters of America Inc. will be on hand to show you how to pan for the precious mineral. Bring a pie pan and a small container for your gold and sand. Old shoes or boots required; absolutely no bare feet. Presentations on the history of gold in the area will be held at 9am and 12noon. Follow “Park Event” signs from Rt. 24 or I-83. NF, NR.

Sunday, July 31; Wallace-Cross Mill Open House
Wallace-Cross Mill, 1:30–4:30pm
Throughout the summer, public open houses will be held every Sunday. Tour guides will guide you through the inner workings of a restored water-powered gristmill and explain its history and the role mills played in our communities.  NF, NR.

Sunday, July 31; Edible Plant Hike
Nixon Park, 1–2pm and 3–4pm
Join Park Naturalist Amber Carothers for a hike involving foraging in the wild, identification and collection tips as well as recipes for wild edibles. NF, register at 428-1961.