Expand your outdoor education and skills know-how this June with Wednesdays in the Woods. Organized by Riverside State Park Foundation in collaboration with Washington State Parks, this popular program continues its momentum after last summer’s post-pandemic return. The 2023 list of free, family-friendly evening events include similar topics and speakers as in past years; however, this summer’s event schedule is limited to the month of June, which means a total of only four events.
The series kicks off on June 7 with a “Camp Cooking” presentation and demonstration by local experts. The following week, on June 14, is the renowned “Hoot Show” with West Valley Outdoor Learning Center staff teaching about nocturnal habits, vision, and auditory senses of birds of prey, including raptors. Kids and adults alike can enjoy ice cream after the presentation, courtesy of Riverside State Park Foundation.
On June 21, learn all about bats from a state park archeologist. Event includes drawings for audience members to win bat books, t-shirts, and even bat houses. The series ends the final Wednesday, June 28, with a presentation from Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife about wildlife encounters, including moose, cougars, and bears.
Presentations take place at the Bowl & Pitcher area of Riverside State Park, at the picnic shelter, from 6:30-8 p.m. All vehicles are required to display a Washington State Parks’ Discover Pass inside the park.
Both campground visitors and the general public are welcome to attend. You can make a full evening of it—pack a picnic dinner, bring your dog, and go for a hike or bike ride before settling down for a presentation (bring your own camp chairs). With later sunsets in June, there’s even time to enjoy trails before dark. More info at Riversidestateparkfoundation.org.
