The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks, and Cowans Gap State Park would like to announce the following activites at Cowans Gap State Park:

September 2 - Senior Series: Signs of the Season. Come enjoy a showcase of nature! We’ll begin with a slideshow presentation featuring some of the natural happenings taking place right now. Then we’ll head outdoors for a gentle stroll to try and spot some of these important and beautiful signs of the season. Meet at the Brightbill Interpretive Center at 10:00 a.m. to join in. This program is being presented especially for seniors, but all ages are welcome.

September 3 - Green Campsite: Camping brings us close to nature, but sometimes we ending up harming the very places we love by the things we do. Come to the amphitheater at 7:00 p.m. to explore the concept of environmentally friendly camping. “Green” campsite will be set up for demonstration, and the park naturalist will offer helpful tips to guide visitors toward a goal of leaving no trace.

September 4 - Using Nature in Photos: Natural objects can be used to create wonderful pictures. In this program, we will look at framing, lines and depth, in addition to other elements. Discover some easy tricks for using nature to improve your photos! Then use what you’ve learned on a photography hike around the lake. Meet at the amphitheater at 2:30 p.m. to join in.

Yakkin’ With the Bats. Cowans Gap is blessed with a significant summer colony of bug-zapping bats. Come enjoy a unique view of these bats in action as we paddle the lake in the gathering darkness. Marvel at their mastery of flight! Reserve one of our single-person kayaks or bring your own. Kayak reservations must be made in advance by calling Beth Garner at 717-485-9018. Participants must be at least 12 years of age, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Life jackets are required for this event. Meet at the boat launch parking lot at 7:00 p.m.

September 5 - Snake Secrets: Snakes are quiet, so they don’t tell their secrets very often. But we’ve figured out some of them to share with you! Stop by the display table near the beach house to learn about the lives of snakes. This activity will be available from 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.

Kids’ Bug Hunt: Discover the world of six-legged creatures in this fun program for kids. Find out what makes an insect different from other creatures, and then go on the hunt! This program is best suited for children ages 4-12. Meet at the Brightbill Interpretive Center at 5:30 p.m.

September 6 - Nature Challenge: Meet at the Brightbill Interpretive Center at 9:00 a.m. for a challenge! Part scavenger hunt and part outdoor knowledge and skills, this is a fun activity for families to do together. Find the items, answer the questions, and return to the center for a prize!

For more information, contact Beth Garner, environmental education specialist, at 717-485-3948 or by email at NRCowansEEPrograms@ state.pa.us. An online calendar of events featuring upcoming programs can also be viewed by visiting the DCNR State Parks at www.visitPAparks.com.

Cowans Gap State Park programs are free of charge and open to the public.

Scheduled visitor hours for the Brightbill Interpretive Center this weekend are as follows: Friday: 3:00-6:00 p.m.; Sat: 3:00-6:00 p.m.; Sun: 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.; Mon: 9:00 a.m.-noon.

If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks: 888-PA-PARKS (voice); 888- 537-7294 (TTY); 711 (AT&T Relay Service)