Louisiana State Parks - Previous Programs and Events

DECEMBER 2011

Upon request, Hodges Gardens State Park, Florien - Garden Tour, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Join the site ranger for a stroll through the cultivated and natural gardens of the park and learn about the process of landscaping and planting. For more information call 800-354-3523 toll free or 586-4020 locally.

Upon request, Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, Pineville - Rifle Musket Demonstration. The demonstration includes a brief presentation of infantry weapons used in the Civil War, a discussion of the merits of rifle muskets over smoothbore muskets and of the basic parts of the musket, a loading demonstration, and finally a firing demonstration. The presentation ends with a question and answer session and an invitation to continue the site tour with a visit into Fort Randolph. No reservations are necessary. Just request the demonstration when registering, upon entry to the site. For more information call 877-677-7437 toll free or 484-2390 locally.

Daily, Rebel State Historic Site, Marthaville - Musical Petting Zoo, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Visitors can view the collection of stringed instruments on display to touch, play, and enjoy. For more information call 888-677-3600 toll free or 472-6255 locally.

Daily, Rebel State Historic Site, Marthaville - The Listening Library, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Visitors can listen to country recordings and access the collection of books and films that tell the story of the roots of country music. For more information call 888-677-3600 toll free or 472-6255 locally.

Saturdays, South Toledo Bend State Park, Anacoco - Bald Eagle Hike, 8 a.m. Visitors are invited to hike to the Bald Eagle's Nest, learn about the history of Sabine River and surrounding area. Trees, birds, and other interesting information will be given. Additional hikes can be scheduled with the Interpretive Ranger at the Visitor Center. For more information call 888-398-4770 toll free or 286-9079 locally.

Dec. 1-23, Rebel State Historic Site, Marthaville - Rebel Country Christmas Lights Display , 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Guests can come to Rebel State Historic Site and the Louisiana Country Music Museum during the month of December to see over 75,000 Christmas lights and displays, as well as hear the sounds of traditional country Christmas music, and visit with Santa Claus. The site will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. with Christmas light display viewing from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. everyday until December 23, 2011. Admission is $4 for adults, children 12 and under and seniors 62 and over are admitted free. For more information, please contact Rebel at (318) 472-6255 locally or 1-888-677-3600 toll free.

Dec. 3, Hodges Gardens State Park, Florien - Pines of Hodges Gardens, 9:30 a.m. Participants are invited to join the park ranger to walk the trails and learn the differences between the species of trees throughout the park. For more information call 800-354-3523 toll free or 586-3523 locally.

Dec. 3, Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, Pineville - Campfire Cooking, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Food prepared will parallel camp cuisine common in Federal and Confederate encampments, but will also include seasonal vegetables and fruits that may have been available to foraging soldiers. While the food is cooking it is common to have a little idle time. Soldiers may have spent this time in conversation, singing, writing letters, playing music. Therefore, many of the following elements may be added to this program: tours of Fort Randolph, pistol and rifle musket demos, whittling, story-telling, singing and harmonica playing, etc. Many of the elements will take place around a campfire under oak trees overlooking the Red River. This program will offer opportunities to interpret period history, nature, culture, agriculture, commerce, etc. For more information call 877-677-7437 toll free or 484-2390 locally.

Dec. 4, Hodges Gardens State Park, Florien - Kick Off the Holidays Concert, 1 p.m. The Vernon Parish Community Orchestra will kick off the holidays with a concert on the Lakefront Stage. For more information call 800-354-3523 toll free or 586-3523 locally.

Dec. 10, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, Natchitoches - F�te d' Hiver ("Winter Celebration"), 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. This is a full scope, living history event that will include ongoing activities, presentations, demonstrations and historical vignettes throughout the day. French Marines and militia will garrison the fort. Civilian camps and Merchants will be located in areas outside the fort. For more information call 888-677-7853 toll free or 357-3101 locally.

Dec. 10, Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, Pineville - Old Time Woodworking Tools, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Inherent in the use of the tools is the need for replacing broken handles, and often times these had to be fabricated locally. A craftsman will demonstrate the use of some of the tools employed to fulfill that need. Shaving horse, froe, drawknife, chisel and adz will be demonstrated. The craftsman may also fabricate wooden cooking ladles and spoons with these tools. For more information call 877-677-7437 toll free or 484-2390 locally.

Dec. 10, South Toledo Bend State Park, Anacoco - Christmas Decorations by Nature, 11 a.m. Participants will make Christmas decorations using items found along the trails in the woods. For more information call 888-398-4770 toll free or 286-9075 locally.

Dec. 10, Fort Jesup State Historic Site, Many - Christmas at the Fort, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. & 6-8 p.m. The site will be decorated to reflect Christmas in the early Victorian era. There will be Christmas games, a cooking demonstration, and a Christmas Feast in the Old Kitchen and a candlelight tour. For more information call 888-677-5378 toll free or 256-4417 locally.

Dec. 17, Marksville State Historic Site, Marksville - Museum & Mounds Tours, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Join the site staff and volunteers for a day of guided tours and demonstrations of the arts and daily tasks, as done by the area's original residents. For more information call 888-253-8954 toll free or 253-8954 locally.

Dec. 17, Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, Pineville - Fishin' for Your Supper, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. An instructor, dressed in period clothing, will demonstrate how a simple pole is assembled and used. If weather permits, participants can follow the instructor to the banks of Pierson Lake to look for bait and test the rig. For more information call 877-677-7437 toll free or 484-2390 locally.

Dec. 17, South Toledo Bend State Park, Anacoco - Caroling at South Toledo Bend, 6 p.m. Campers and the general public are invited for a winter hayride through the park. For more information call 888-398-4770 toll free or 286-9075 locally.

Dec. 31, South Toledo Bend State Park, Anacoco - Scavenger Hunt, 10 a.m. Meet at the Visitor Center for the list and instructions for finding items in the park. This is great fun for children over the age of 10. For more information call 888-398-4770 toll free or 286-9079 locally.

NOVEMBER 2011

Nov. 5, Rebel State Historic Site, Marthaville - Country Music Historic Trail Ride, 8 a.m. - noon. Get a hands-on, seat-in-the-saddle look at Northwest Louisiana up close and personal as a participant in our Country Music Historic Trail Ride. The Country Music Historic Trail Ride offers a true western experience, while enjoying historic lands, sites, and landmarks. The ride team is excited about traveling through the actual area where the skirmish at Crump's Corner occurred on April 2, 1864 during the Red River Campaign of the Civil War. Traveling from Rebel in the early morning hours, guests will loop through community learning about the history of the area and finish their ride again at Rebel SHS for lunch. End of the ride festivities include a brown bag lunch (Riders will be expected to bring their own brown bag lunch for their enjoyment after the trail ride), a living history presentation along with a country music concert. Admission is $4 for adults, children 12 and under and seniors 62 and over are admitted free. For more information call 888-677-3600 toll free or 472-6255 locally.

Nov. 5, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, Natchitoches - Nut is a Nut is a Nut. 10 a.m. - noon. Site staff will discuss the different varieties of pecans and other nuts and their use by Native Americans and the French during the French colonial period in the Natchitoches area. For more information call 888-677-7853 toll free or 357-3101 locally.

Nov. 5, Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, Pineville - Campfire Cooking, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Food prepared will parallel camp cuisine common in Federal and Confederate encampments, but will also include seasonal vegetables and fruits that may have been available to foraging soldiers. While the food is cooking it is common to have a little idle time. Soldiers may have spent this time in conversation, singing, writing letters, playing music. Therefore, many of the following elements may be added to this program: tours of Fort Randolph, pistol and rifle musket demos, whittling, story-telling, singing and harmonica playing, etc. Many of the elements will take place around a campfire under oak trees overlooking the Red River. This program will offer opportunities to interpret period history, nature, culture, agriculture, commerce, etc. For more information call 877-677-7437 toll free or 484-2390 locally.

Nov. 12, Hodges Gardens State Park, Florien - Natural Fall Arrangements, 9:30 a.m. Participants are invited to make a beautiful fall arrangement for the Thanksgiving table with items from the yard and local woods. For more information call 800-354-3523 toll free or 586-3523 locally.

Nov. 12, Hodges Gardens State Park, Florien - Fall Art Festival, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Friends of Hodges Gardens State Park proudly sponsor the Fall Art Festival. Local artists and artisans will have their works on sale and demonstrations will be ongoing throughout the day. The Vernon Parish Orchestra will also be performing. For more information call 800-354-3523 toll free or 586-3523 locally.

Nov. 12, Fort Jesup State Historic Site, Many - A Military Mess, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. This program will feature hands-on demonstrations and talks about cooking techniques and life in a military mess hall in the early 1800s. For more information call 888-677-5378 toll free or 256-4417 locally.

Nov. 12, Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, Pineville - Old Time Woodworking Tools, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Inherent in the use of the tools is the need for replacing broken handles, and often times these had to be fabricated locally. A craftsman will demonstrate the use of some of the tools employed to fulfill that need. Shaving horse, froe, drawknife, chisel and adz will be demonstrated. The craftsman may also fabricate wooden cooking ladles and spoons with these tools. For more information call 877-677-7437 toll free or 484-2390 locally.

Nov. 12, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, Natchitoches - Introduction to 18th Century Woodworking, 1-4 p.m. This program teaches visitors a brief history of colonial woodworking and also shows some basic tools and techniques of the trade. For more information call 888-677-7853 toll free or 357-3101 locally.

Nov. 19, Marksville State Historic Site, Marksville - Museum & Mounds Tours, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Join the site staff and volunteers for a day of guided tours and demonstrations of the arts and daily tasks, as done by the area's original residents. For more information call 888-253-8954 toll free or 253-8954 locally.

Nov. 19, Hodge Gardens State Park, Florien - Winter Nature Walk, 9:30 a.m. All are invited to discover the changes that take place in the woods during the winter months. For more information call 800-354-3523 toll free or 586-3523 locally.

Nov. 19, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, Natchitoches - Native American Day, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Families are invited to visit and share family stories. Site staff will also be available to demonstrate center seam moccasins and bead work. For more information call 888-677-7853 toll free or 357-3101 locally.

Nov. 19, Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, Pineville - Fishin' for Your Supper, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. An instructor, dressed in period clothing, will demonstrate how a simple pole is assembled and used. If weather permits, participants can follow the instructor to the banks of Pierson Lake to look for bait and test the rig. For more information call 877-677-7437 toll free or 484-2390 locally.

Nov. 19, South Toledo Bend State Park, Anacoco - Nature's Temperature, 11 a.m. Children 8 and up are given the opportunity to learn how animals adapt to the changing of temperatures. For more information call 888-398-4770 toll free or 286-9075 locally.

OCTOBER 2011

Tuesday-Saturday, Rebel State Historic Site, Marthaville - Musical Petting Zoo, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Visitors can view the collection of stringed instruments on display to touch, play, and enjoy. For more information call 888-677-3600 toll free or 472-6255 locally.

Tuesday-Saturday, Rebel State Historic Site, Marthaville - The Listening Library, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Visitors can listen to country recordings and access the collection of books and films that tell the story of the roots of country music. For more information call 888-677-3600 toll free or 472-6255 locally.

October, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, Natchitoches - Archaeology Month, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. All month, staff will display artifacts consisting of local cultural materials including French, Spanish and Native American artifacts. For more information call 888-677-7853 toll free or 357-3101 locally.

Oct. 1, South Toledo Bend State Park, Anacoco - Scavenger Hunt, 10 a.m. Meet at the Visitor Center for the list and instructions for finding items in the park. This is great fun for children over the age of 10. For more information call 888-398-4770 toll free or 286-9079 locally.

Oct. 1, Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, Pineville - Campfire Cooking, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Food prepared will parallel camp cuisine common in Federal and Confederate encampments, but will also include seasonal vegetables and fruits that may have been available to foraging soldiers. While the food is cooking it is common to have a little idle time. Soldiers may have spent this time in conversation, singing, writing letters, playing music. Therefore, many of the following elements may be added to this program: tours of Fort Randolph, pistol and rifle musket demos, whittling, story-telling, singing and harmonica playing, etc. Many of the elements will take place around a campfire under oak trees overlooking the Red River. This program will offer opportunities to interpret period history, nature, culture, agriculture, commerce, etc. For more information call 877-677-7437 toll free or 484-2390 locally.

Oct. 8, Fort Jesup State Historic Site, Many - Fall Market Day, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. This program will celebrate the fall harvests on the frontier. Guests will be invited to observe period crafts such as spinning, wood working, open hearth cooking, as well as talks about the history of Fort Jesup and its surrounding community. For more information call 888-677-5378 toll free or 256-4417 locally.

Oct. 8, Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, Pineville - Old Time Woodworking Tools, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Inherent in the use of the tools is the need for replacing broken handles, and often times these had to be fabricated locally. A craftsman will demonstrate the use of some of the tools employed to fulfill that need. Shaving horse, froe, drawknife, chisel and adz will be demonstrated. The craftsman may also fabricate wooden cooking ladles and spoons with these tools. For more information call 877-677-7437 toll free or 484-2390 locally.

Oct. 15, Marksville State Historic Site, Marksville - Museum & Mounds Tours, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Join the site staff and volunteers for a day of guided tours and demonstrations of the arts and daily tasks, as done by the area's original residents. For more information call 888-253-8954 toll free or 253-8954 locally.

Oct. 15, Fort Jesup State Historic Site, Many - Archaeology Day, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. In keeping with Archaeology month, Fort Jesup will host a day of archaeological learning. Guests will learn about early archaeology done at the Fort, archaeological techniques, and get to try their hand at an interactive archaeology pit. For more information call 888-677-5378 toll free or 256-4417 locally.

Oct. 15, Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, Pineville - Fishin' for Your Supper, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. An instructor, dressed in period clothing, will demonstrate how a simple pole is assembled and used. If weather permits, participants can follow the instructor to the banks of Pierson Lake to look for bait and test the rig. For more information call 877-677-7437 toll free or 484-2390 locally.

Oct. 15, Hodges Gardens State Park, Florien - Geocaching, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, and then share your experiences online. This program is family friendly and is enjoyed by people of all ages. For more information call 800-354-3523 toll free or 586-3523 locally.

Oct. 15, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, Natchitoches - Archaeology with Dr. Pete Gregory, 1 p.m. Dr. Pete Gregory, PhD of Anthropology and Archaeology at Northwestern State University will be a guest lecturer discussing French, Spanish and Native American artifacts in the Natchitoches area. For more information call 888-677-7853 toll free or 357-3101 locally.

Oct. 21, 22, 28 & 29, Rebel State Historic Site, Marthaville - Rebel's 10th Annual Haunted Museum Tours, 7-10 p.m. In keeping with a now ten year long tradition, the Louisiana Country Music Museum will be converted into a spectacularly spooky dwelling inhabited by ghosts and goblins of all kinds for the Halloween season. The staff at Rebel SHS works closely with the community to provide a safe atmosphere for local families and children to enjoy the Halloween holiday including a child friendly rope maze and hayride. For more information call 888-677-3600 toll free or 472-6255 locally.

Oct. 22, South Toledo Bend State Park, Anacoco - Fall Hayride, 6 p.m. All are invited to participate in this Fall Hayride with a tour of the park with games and refreshments. For more information call 888-398-4770 toll free or 286-9075 locally.

Oct. 30, Rebel State Historic Site, Marthaville - Farewell to Robert Gentry, 2-4 p.m. Due to all of his work at Rebel SHS over the years, Mr. Gentry would like to use Rebel SHS to sponsor a farewell gathering in remembrance of his life and work. The guest speaker will be Former Governor Edwin W. Edwards with additional speaker Author Robert James Walter, musical entertainment by Gene Watson and the Farewell Party Band. This 2-hour program will include bits of Mr. Gentry's history with state parks and a thank you for all his efforts within the local community. For more information call 888-677-3600 toll free or 472-6255 locally.

Cajun Country Back to Top

DECEMBER 2011

Children In Nature Program Ongoing, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Wildlife Attracting Program. Included in the program are feeding areas located at the Interpretative Center and a slough lookout. Bird watchers come from around the world to experience the wildlife on Lake Fausse Pointe. Interpretive Center open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, and most Sundays. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 229-4764 locally.

Ongoing, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Interpretive Center, 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Get the most out of your visit to Lake Fausse Pointe State Park. Come and learn about our Park's history, wildlife, geology, and trail systems through outstanding displays and exhibits (many interactive) at the Interpretive Center. Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, and most Sundays, and by appointment. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 229-4764 locally.

Sundays, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Naturalist's Choice, 11 a.m. Nature activities chosen to feature a particular season, event, or day including guided hikes, nature videos, and programs on featured flora and fauna of the Arboretum. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Dec. 2, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Night Hike, 6:30-8 p.m. Join the park ranger for a short presentation on a special night hike focus topic. After the presentation, guests take a hike on the trails to try and locate some of the animals and insects that make Palmetto Island their home. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Dec. 3, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Guided Canoe Trip, 8-11 a.m. Park guests are invited on a guided canoe trip down the park's canoe trail. Participants will enjoy paddling through ponds and down bayous while observing diverse plant and animal life. Space is limited; please sign up at the Nature Center or call ahead. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-7047 locally.

Dec. 3, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Guided Hike, 2 p.m. Everyone is invited for a guided walk along the arboretum trails. Visitors will learn about the flora and fauna found in the arboretum. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Dec. 7 & 14, Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site, St. Martinville - Creole Holidays, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Specials days will be offered with hands on activities such as old fashion toys and games for school groups. Also demonstrations of making candles, spinning and weaving, the cooking of holiday sugar wafers and other holiday activities. The Olivier Plantation House will be decorated with natural greenery, ribbons and candles as in the 1800's. These events will be free for all school groups. For more information call 888-677-2900 toll free or 394-3754 locally.

Dec. 10, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Woodpeckers of Louisiana, 9 a.m. Join the site naturalist to learn all about the different types of woodpeckers found in Louisiana followed by a guided tour to search for them on the trails. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Children In Nature Program Dec. 10, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Jupiter 101, 6 p.m. Come see and learn about Jupiter and 4 of its many moons. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 337-229-4764.

Dec. 16, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Guided Canoe Trip, 4-7 p.m. Park guests are invited on a guided canoe trip down the park's canoe trail. Participants will enjoy paddling through ponds and down bayous while observing diverse plant and animal life. Space is limited; please sign up at the Nature Center or call ahead. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-7047 locally.

Children In Nature Program Dec. 17, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Morning Nature Hike, 10 a.m. Come join the Interpreter for a morning hike on Armadillo Ridge. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 337-229-4764.

Dec. 17, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Nature for Kids, 10 a.m. Children will learn about a new nature topic each month and will make a related craft to take home. Topics include reptiles, astronomy, insects and more. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Dec. 17, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Bike Ride, 1 p.m. Participants are invited to meet at the Nature Center for a group bike ride around Palmetto Island. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Dec. 17, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Wild Edibles of Winter, 2 p.m. Join the site naturalist to learn about edible plants of winter. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Dec. 21, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Black Pot Demos, noon. Join the site rangers as they demonstrate cooking in black pots over charcoals. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 229-4764 locally.

Dec. 24, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Winter Hike, 10 a.m. Join the park staff for a guided tour of the park trails. Participants will enjoy a walk on a cool winter day with informative talks on a variety of plants and animals. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Dec. 30, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Movie Night, 6:30-8 p.m. Guests are invited to join the park staff for a night of nature films. All are welcome to the Nature Center to view movies focused on local wildlife, conservation and culture. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

NOVEMBER 2011

Nov. 4, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Night Hike, 7:30-9 p.m. Join the park ranger for a short presentation on a special night hike focus topic. After the presentation, guests take a hike on the trails to try and locate some of the animals and insects that make Palmetto Island their home. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Nov. 5, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Guided Canoe Trip, 8-11 a.m. Park guests are invited on a guided canoe trip down the park's canoe trail. Participants will enjoy paddling through ponds and down bayous while observing diverse plant and animal life. Space is limited; please sign up at the Nature Center or call ahead. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-7047 locally.

Nov. 5, Chicot State Park, Ville Platte - Trash Bash, 9 a.m. - noon. Volunteers are invited to help clean up the shores of Chicot Lake and the roadsides in and around the park. For more information call 888-677-2442 toll free or 363-2403 locally.

Nov. 5, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Guided Hike, 2-4 p.m. Everyone is invited for a guided walk along the Backbone Ridge Trail. Visitors will learn about the flora and fauna found in the arboretum. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Nov. 9, Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site, St. Martinville - Fall into the Past, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. A special living history program about work and life in the 1800s will be held. The program will include tours through the Olivier Plantation House c. 1815 and the Acadian Farmstead given by costumed interpreters. Volunteers and crafts people will be demonstrating blacksmithing, spinning and weaving, shooting blackpowder guns and cooking on an open fire. A hands-on area will be set up for children to try chores such as churning butter, cording cotton and shelling corn. For more information call 888-677-2900 toll free or 394-3754 locally.

Nov. 9, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Black Pot Demos, noon. Join the site rangers as they demonstrate cooking in black pots over charcoals. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 229-4764 locally.

Nov. 12, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Birds of Prey, 9-11 a.m. This presentation will explore the world of eagles, owls, hawks and other less known raptors followed by a hike to observe these birds in the Arboretum. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Nov. 12, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Birding Basics: Behavior, 10 a.m. This program is Part 3 in a series of birding classes offered to beginner birders. This third class, "Behavior" will include information on identifying birds based on the way they act, move, sit and fly. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Nov. 12, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Pine Needle Basketry, 1-4 p.m. Participants will learn how to make a pine needle basket. Materials are provided and space is limited. Pre-registration is required. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Nov. 18, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Guided Canoe Trip, 4-7 p.m. Park guests are invited on a guided canoe trip down the park's canoe trail. Participants will enjoy paddling through ponds and down bayous while observing diverse plant and animal life. Space is limited; please sign up at the Nature Center or call ahead. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-7047 locally.

Nov. 19, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Nature for Kids, 10 a.m. Children will learn about a new nature topic each month and will make a related craft to take home. Topics include reptiles, astronomy, insects and more. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Nov. 19, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Geology Hike, 10 a.m. Join the site staff for a guided tour of the park trails. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Nov. 19, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - White-Tailed Deer, 2 p.m. Join a site naturalist to learn all about the white-tail deer. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Children In Nature Program Nov. 19, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Jupiter 101, 6:30 p.m. Come see and learn about Jupiter and 4 of its many moons. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 337-229-4764.

Nov. 25, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Movie Night, 6:30-8 p.m. Guests are invited to join the park staff for a night of nature films. All are welcome to the Nature Center to view movies focused on local wildlife, conservation and culture. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Nov. 26, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Scavenger Hunt, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. All are invited to go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt at the Arboretum. See how many different natural objects you can find. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Nov. 26, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Jobs of the Wetlands - a Guided Tour, 10 a.m. This hike though a bottomland hardwood swamp will focus on the importance and functions of a freshwater wetland. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 229-4764 locally.

Nov. 26, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Bike Ride, 1 p.m. Participants are invited to meet at the Nature Center for a group bike ride around Palmetto Island. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Nov. 26, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Guided Hike, 2 p.m. Everyone is invited for a guided walk along one of the Arboretum trails. Visitors will learn about the flora and fauna found in the arboretum. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Children In Nature Program Nov. 26, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Jupiter 101, 6:30 p.m. Come see and learn about Jupiter and 4 of its many moons. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 337-229-4764.

OCTOBER 2011

Thursdays, Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site, St. Martinville - Creole Housekeeping, 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Join the site ranger on a walk through a 19th century Creole home. Learn what tools and equipment were important for the upkeep and daily life on a French Creole Plantation. For more information call 888-677-2900 toll free or 394-3754 locally.

Oct. 1, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Gardening with Native Shrubs, 10 a.m. Explore the native shrubs that are best for the area and learn how to develop a plan to incorporate these beautiful, durable, yet low maintenance plants into the landscape. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Oct. 1, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Guided Hike, 2-4 p.m. Everyone is invited for a guided walk along Pawpaw Loop. Visitors will learn about the flora and fauna found in the arboretum. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Oct. 8, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Bike Ride, 1 p.m. Participants are invited to meet at the Nature Center for a group bike ride around Palmetto Island. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Oct. 8, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Squirrely Behavior, 2 p.m. Join the site naturalist to learn more about squirrels. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Oct. 12, Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site, St. Martinville - Attakapas Trade Day, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. This program will give visitors the opportunity to compare the lifestyles of a wealthy planter to a simple farmer and the nomadic traders and hunters. Demonstrations and hands-on activities will take place along with a tour through the Olivier Plantation House (circa 1815), the Acadian Farmstead, and the Interpretive Center. For more information call 888-677-2900 toll free or 394-3754 locally.

Oct. 12, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Nature Videos, 6:30 p.m. Come to the amphitheater for Nature Videos under the stars. Seating will be bench style or you may bring a blanket or lawn chair. If the weather is not cooperative, Nature Videos will be shown in the Interpretive Center. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 229-4764 locally.

Oct. 14, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Night Hike, 7:30-9 p.m. Join the park ranger for a short presentation on a special night hike focus topic. After the presentation, guests take a hike on the trails to try and locate some of the animals and insects that make Palmetto Island their home. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Oct. 15 & 29, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Experience Atchafalaya Day, Canoe tours at 10 a.m. and noon. All canoeing levels welcome. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, bagged lunch and water. Canoes and life vests provided. Reservations recommended. For more information call 225-342-1479 or email esullivan@crt.la.gov to reserve a place.

Oct. 15, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Nature for Kids, 10 a.m. Children will learn about a new nature topic each month and will make a related craft to take home. Topics include reptiles, astronomy, insects and more. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Oct. 15, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Birding Basics: Migrations, 10 a.m. This program is Part 2 in a series of birding classes offered to beginner birders. "Migrations" will include information on spring and winter bird migrations. Participants will learn which birds to expect in Louisiana at certain times of the year. After the presentation, participants will take a short walk to view birds on the nature trail. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Children In Nature Program Oct. 15, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Wetlands Specialties, 11 a.m. Discover the wetlands through the needs and adaptations of several species that live in the park. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 229-4764 locally.

Oct. 15, Chicot State Park, Ville Platte - Guided Canoe Tour, 2-4 p.m. Join the site naturalist for a guided tour of Chicot Lake. Canoeing experience is recommended. Space is limited, so pre-registration is required. You may bring your own canoe, but still need to register. For more information call 888-677-1600 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Oct. 21, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Guided Canoe Trip, 4-7 p.m. Park guests are invited on a guided canoe trip down the park's canoe trail. Participants will enjoy paddling through ponds and down bayous while observing diverse plant and animal life. Space is limited; please sign up at the Nature Center or call ahead. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Oct. 22, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Knitting with Nature, 1-4 p.m. Learn a new hobby or practice an old one while sitting outdoors and knitting with natural materials. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Oct. 22, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - History & Archaeology of Palmetto Island, 1 p.m. Everyone is invited to join the park staff for a journey into the past. Participants will discover the lives of past inhabitants of Palmetto Island State Park. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Oct. 28, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Movie Night, 6:30-8 p.m. Guests are invited to join the park staff for a night of nature films. All are welcome to the Nature Center to view movies focused on local wildlife, conservation and culture. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Oct. 29, Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site, St. Martinville - Fall Festival, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. A special Craft Fair and Market will be held on the grounds of Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site on Main St. in St. Martinville. Craft demonstrators, artist, and vendors of handmade items or produce will be showing and selling their goods. Items for sale include paintings, photographs, wood carvings, Native American crafts, preserves, candies, quilts, bonnets, baby clothing, jewelry, rosaries, soap, candles, preserves, cypress furniture, wooden boat models, pottery, garden items such as plants, benches, pots, and bird feeders. Food will also be available for sale and music will be provided for part of the day. For more information call 888-677-2900 toll free or 394-3754 locally.

Oct. 29, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Experience Atchafalaya Day. Members of the Chitimacha tribe will be on site to talk about their culture and history with the Atchafalaya area. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 229-4764 locally.

Oct. 29, Louisiana State Arboretum, Ville Platte - Mushroom Explosion, 10 a.m. Join the site naturalist to explore the strange world of mushrooms. For more information call 888-677-6100 toll free or 363-6289 locally.

Oct. 29, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martinville - Tree Artistry, 11 a.m. Join us in celebrating "Experience Atchafalaya Days" - Participants will use their senses to take a different look at trees and make a take home product. For more information call 888-677-7200 toll free or 229-4764 locally.

Oct. 29, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Make Your Own Field Guide, 1 p.m. Park guests 12 and under are invited to the Nature Center to create their own field guides for Palmetto Island State Park. Topics may include trees, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, insects or spiders. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Oct. 29, Chicot State Park, Ville Platte - Campground Trick-or-Treat, 2-5 p.m. Trick-or-treaters are invited to walk through the campground for treats. For more information call 888-677-2442 toll free or 363-2403 locally.

Oct. 29, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Treat Bag Craft, 3 p.m. Trick-or-treaters are invited to the Nature Center to make a treat bag for Halloween night in the campground. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Oct. 29, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Trick-or-Treat, 5-7 p.m. Guests are invited to participate in the parks Trick-or-Treat. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Oct. 29, Palmetto Island State Park, Abbeville - Night Canoe Trip, 5-8 p.m. Join the site ranger for a night time paddle down the park's canoe trail. Space is limited so please register in advance. For more information call 888-677-0094 toll free or 893-3930 locally.

Plantation Country Back to Top

DECEMBER 2011

Daily, Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Oakley House Tours. This program gives visitors a guided tour of Oakley House. During the 30-45 minute tour, the history of the house is discussed with its regional and international importance. Visitors will learn what life was like in the Federal Period of the house and a bit about John Audubon. For more information call 888-677-2838 toll free or 635-3739 locally.

Saturdays, Tickfaw State Park, Springfield - Wild Crafts for Kids! 11 a.m. This program generally begins with a short talk or presentation followed by a take-home craft project, game or hands-on activity. It focuses on children ages 5-12, but all ages are welcome. For more information call 225-294-2218.

Saturdays, Tickfaw State Park, Springfield - Nature, Naturally, 1:30 p.m. Come join a park ranger and learn about different aspects of nature in Louisiana through Ranger led hikes, outdoor games, and even live animal presentations. For more information call 225-294-2218.

Saturdays, Tickfaw State Park, Springfield - Wildlife Theatre, 3 p.m. Come to the Nature Center Theatre for a theatre based game such as Animal/Wetlands Charades, Animal Sounds Energy ball, or Tickfaw Idol/Karaoke. All ages can participate, but children under12 must be accompanied by an adult. Large groups must call in advance, and may also request a specific type of theatre programming. For more information call 225-294-2218.

December, Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, St. Francisville - 19th Century Christmas Decoration, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Rosedown Plantation's Main House will be dressed in historic, early-to-mid 19th century-style Christmas d�cor, consisting of natural greenery garlands, fruit and nut displays, cypress and cedar wreaths, and potted poinsettia blooms. For more information call 888-376-1867 toll free or 653-3110 locally.

Dec. 2, Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Christmas at Oakley (School Day), 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. This program recreates Christmas at Oakley through several different eras. The house is dressed in a recreated setting of natural greens as it was at the time. The students will get to participate in activities across the plantation from Christmas stories to singing Christmas carols and make Christmas crafts. Costumed staff will take the public through the holiday decorated home and relate the history of various Christmas traditions from that period and how they related to today. For more information call 888-677-2838 toll free or 635-3739 locally.

Dec. 3, Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville - A Dickens of a Christmas! 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. This program recreates Christmas at Oakley centering on the Victorian era. The house is dressed in a recreated setting of natural greens as it was at that time. Costumed staff will take participants through the holiday decorated home and relate the history of various Christmas traditions from the period to today. The kitchen will be cooking a period Christmas meal and from 6-8 p.m. there will be a candlelight tour. For more information call 888-677-2838 toll free or 635-3739 locally.

Dec. 3, Port Hudson State Historic Site, Zachary - St. Barbara Cannon Blessing, 11 a.m. St. Barbara is the patron saint of artillerymen, military engineers, miners and others who work with explosives, and her feast day is December 4. In recognition of her feast day, a local Catholic priest will bless the site's cannons. Re-enactors who wish to their cannon(s) blessed are also invited to attend. For more information call 888-677-3400 toll free or 654-3775 locally.

Dec. 5-9, Centenary State Historic Site, Jackson - Christmas at Centenary, 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. The site will be decorated for a Victorian Christmas. Children will be given a tour and will then make an authentic Victorian Christmas ornament followed by Christmas stories with Papa Noel. Pre-registration is required. For more information call 888-677-2364 toll free or 634-7925 locally.

Dec. 10, Centenary State Historic Site, Jackson - Christmas Concert, 6 p.m. The site will present a Christmas concert featuring a local musical act. For more information call 888-677-2364 toll free or 634-7925 locally.

Dec. 17-18, Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Christmas at Rosedown, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Rosedown will host its 9th annual Christmas at Rosedown program. Site staff and volunteers will demonstrate 19th century arts and crafts throughout the plantation complex. The public will see the main house dressed in period decorations and hear stories of Christmas traditions at Rosedown that were passed down through the Turnbull and Bowman families. Demonstrations will include period music and dancing, candle making, spinning, quilting, shaving horse and hayrides. Historic down-hearth cooking will also be demonstrated. For more information call 888-376-1867 toll free or 653-3110 locally.

Dec. 17, Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Lost Arts: Down-Hearth Cooking (Christmas Menu), 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Demonstrations of the "Lost Arts" of the 19th century occurring every third Saturday of each month. For more information call 888-376-1867 toll free or 635-3110 locally.

NOVEMBER 2011

Nov. 5, Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Wheat's Tigers, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. A site ranger will give a talk and presentation on the famous "Wheat's Tigers" from New Orleans, their unique uniform, weapon demonstrations and camp life. For more information call 888-677-2838 toll free or 635-3739 locally.

Nov. 5, Port Hudson State Historic Site, Zachary - Firepower! 1-3 p.m. The Port Hudson SHS staff and volunteers will conduct demonstrations with Civil War era reproduction weapons including cannons, muskets, rifles, carbines and pistols. A brief description will be given of each weapon and how it was loaded and used. For more information call 888-677-3400 toll free or 654-3775 locally.

Nov. 13, Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Candle Making, 1-4 p.m. A site ranger will demonstrate the process of hand-making candles from bees wax. Molded and dipped candles will be demonstrated. For more information call 888-677-2838 toll free or 635-3739 locally.

Nov. 19, Port Hudson State Historic Site, Zachary - Bennett's Redoubt Tour, 10 a.m. This tour will proceed from the museum to Bennett's Redoubt. The guide will point out significant landmarks and features including the Ambrose/Bennett house site, the Slaughter Pen and Confederate defenses and cannon positions. The hike is about 2 miles. For more information call 888-677-3400 toll free or 654-3775 locally.

Nov. 19, Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Lost Arts: Down-Hearth Cooking (Thanksgiving Menu), 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Demonstrations of the "Lost Arts" of the 19th century occurring every third Saturday of each month. For more information call 888-376-1867 toll free or 635-3110 locally.

OCTOBER 2011

EVENT CANCELLED Oct. 2, Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Coppen's Louisiana Zouaves, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. What is a Louisiana Zouaves? Visitors get a chance to interact with park staff in Coppen's Louisiana Zouaves. Demonstrations will include camp life, musket firing, and period uniform talks. This program is part of the Civil War sesquicentennial. For more information call 888-677-2838 toll free or 635-3739 locally.

Oct. 2, Port Hudson State Historic Site, Zachary - Firepower! 1-3 p.m. The Port Hudson SHS staff and volunteers will conduct demonstrations with Civil War era reproduction weapons including cannons, muskets, rifles, carbines and pistols. A brief description will be given of each weapon and how it was loaded and used. For more information call 888-677-3400 toll free or 654-3775 locally.

Oct. 8, Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Girl Scout Day, For more information call 888-677-2838 toll free or 635-3739 locally.

EVENT CANCELLED Oct. 14, Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Civil War at Oakley (School Day), 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. This program focuses on the events leading up to and the succession of Louisiana from the United States in 1861 as part of the Civil War Sesquicentennial. Events will include setting up the tent camps, several different military drills throughout the day, talks and demonstrations. Registration is required. For more information call 888-677-2838 toll free or 635-3739 locally.

Oct. 15-16, Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Civil War at Oakley, Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Sunday: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. This program focuses on the events leading up to and the succession of Louisiana from the United States in 1861 as part of the Civil War Sesquicentennial. Events will include setting up the tent camps, several different military drills throughout the day, talks and demonstrations. For more information call 888-677-2838 toll free or 635-3739 locally.

Oct. 15, Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Lost Arts: Loom Weaving, Spinning and Embroidery, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Demonstrations of the "Lost Arts" of the 19th century occurring every third Saturday of each month. For more information call 888-376-1867 toll free or 635-3110 locally.

Oct. 21, Port Hudson State Historic Site, Zachary - Living History Day (Home School Day), 9 a.m. - noon. This program is designed to present a greater variety of Civil War interpretive activities that normally available. The first demonstration will be the loading and firing of a Civil War cannon and groups will then be directed to the different interpretive stations throughout the park. Anyone wishing to participate need to call the park to schedule their group. For more information call 888-677-3400 toll free or 654-3775 locally.

Oct. 22-23, Centenary State Historic Site, Jackson - Battle of Jackson Re-enactment, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Centenary State Historic Site, the original site of Centenary College of Louisiana (1825-1908), will host their re-enactment of this Civil War skirmish. The event will commence with artillery and infantry drills throughout the morning with ongoing camp life demonstrations leading up to the re-enactments at 2 p.m. on Saturday and 1:30 on Sunday. For more information call 888-677-2364 toll free or 634-7925 locally.

Oct. 22, Port Hudson State Historic Site, Zachary - Louisiana Native Guards Battlefield Tour, 10 a.m. Archaeologist Ken Ashworth will host a presentation on his investigation of the battlefield and a tour of the battlefield will follow. For more information call 888-677-3400 toll free or 654-3775 locally.

Oct. 28, Port Hudson State Historic Site, Zachary - Living History Day (School Day), 9 a.m. - noon. This program is designed to present schools a greater variety of Civil War interpretive activities that normally available. The first demonstration will be the loading and firing of a Civil War cannon and groups will then be directed to the different interpretive stations throughout the park. Schools wishing to participate need to call the park to schedule their classes. For more information call 888-677-3400 toll free or 654-3775 locally.

Oct. 28, Audubon State Historic Site, St. Francisville - All Hallows Eve, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Guests are invited to Oakley Plantation to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of an 1800s Halloween Festival. This program is focuses on the history of Halloween in the United States and invites visitors to explore traditions from the early 1800s. For more information call 888-677-2838 toll free or 635-3739 locally.

Oct. 29 & 30, Port Hudson State Historic Site, Zachary - Fall Scout Days, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. All scouts (Girl, Brownie, Boy and Cub) are invited to the site to earn either the Port Hudson Historic Trail or the Port Hudson Nature Trail patch. To earn the trail patch awards, scouts are required to answer the question booklet for the respective trail award. For more information call 888-677-3400 toll free or 654-3775 locally.

Oct. 29, Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, St. Francisville - Rosedown Funeral and Soul Stories, wake: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., funeral: 3 p.m., soul: 4 p.m. Daniel Turnbull died on Oct. 30, 1861 and the Rosedown staff will reenact his wake and funeral. The house will be dressed in full mourning attire and Daniel's casket will be on display. For more information call 888-376-1867 toll free or 635-3110 locally.

Oct. 31, Centenary State Historic Site, Jackson - Halloween at Centenary, 6-8 p.m. Visitors are invited to the Professor's House for goodies that will be handed out by costumed guides during the town of Jackson's trick-or-treating and learn a bit of the site's history at the same time. For more information call 888-677-2364 toll free or 634-7925 locally.

Greater New Orleans area Back to Top

DECEMBER 2011

Dec. 3, 10 & 17, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Nature: A Closer Look, 9 a.m. Participants will hike with a site ranger along the nature trail for a more observant look at the natural world and will discuss information from the tallest trees to the smallest spiders. The walk will pass through the East Marsh Boardwalk, the Alley of Oaks and end by the Old Sugar Mill. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Dec. 3, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Trail Hike, 10-11a.m. Join the Park Interpretive Ranger on a casual walk through one of Bogue Chitto State Park's many trails and learn about the wildlife and habitat of the area. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

Dec. 3, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Fish Prints, 10:30 a.m. Visitors will make a fish print from a rubber mold with paint onto paper. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Dec. 3, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Geocaching, 11 a.m. Join the Interpretive Ranger in learning about geocaching and the use of a GPS unit. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

Dec. 3, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Fontainebleau History Tour, 11 a.m. Meet the site ranger at the Sugar Mill ruins to learn about the history of the park then take a stroll down the Alley of Oaks while discussing the intriguing life of Bernard de Marigny and his influence on Louisiana's history. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Dec. 4, 11 & 18, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Primitive Woodworking, 11a.m. - 3 p.m. This demonstration program features the use of a froe for splitting wood and the use of a shaving horse and drawknives to make wooden objects such as spoons, paddles, canes and tool handles. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Dec. 10-24, Fairview-Riverside State Park, Madisonville - Celebrating Christmas 1885-1935, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday, Take a guided tour of Otis House Museum to enjoy seasonal decorations and discover how Christmas celebrations changed since the Victorian Era. For more information, call 888-677-3247 toll free or 985-792-4652 locally.

Dec. 10, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Trail Hike, 10-11 a.m. Join the Park Interpretive Ranger on a casual walk through one of Bogue Chitto State Park's many trails and learn about the wildlife and habitat of the area. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

Dec. 10, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Holiday Crafts, 10 a.m. - noon. Join the Interpretive Ranger in creating holiday crafts for your home or as gifts. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

Dec. 10, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Survivor Series, 11 a.m. Meet the site ranger for this program covering basic survival skills. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Dec. 10, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Nature Hayride, 3 p.m. Meet at the Visitor Center where the site ranger will take participants on a tractor-pulled hayride to see Fontainebleau State Park. The site ranger will identify the flora and fauna encountered along the way with emphasis on poisonous plants. There is room for up to 30 participants. For more information or to pre-register, call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Dec. 10, Fairview-Riverside State Park, Madisonville - Evening Candlelight Tours, 5:30-8:00 p.m. Enjoy festive decorations and a guided tour of Otis House c. 1885 to discover holiday customs during the Victorian Era. For more information, call 888-677-3247 toll free or 985-792-4652 locally.

NOVEMBER 2011

Saturdays, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Nature: A Closer Look, 9 a.m. Participants will hike with a site ranger along the nature trail for a more observant look at the natural world and will discuss information from the tallest trees to the smallest spiders. The walk will pass through the East Marsh Boardwalk, the Alley of Oaks and end by the Old Sugar Mill. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Sundays, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Primitive Woodworking, 11a.m. - 3 p.m. This demonstration program features the use of a froe for splitting wood and the use of a shaving horse and drawknives to make wooden objects such as spoons, paddles, canes and tool handles. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Nov. 5, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Outdoor Cooking, 10 a.m. - noon. The park ranger will conduct an open fire cooking demonstration in the style that was seen in the pioneer days of Louisiana. The demonstration will include a discussion of the recipe and history of the dish being prepared along with the process involved in open fire cooking. After the meal is prepared, guests will be given a sample of the dish as well as handouts with the recipe. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

Nov. 5, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Fish Prints, 10:30 a.m. Visitors will make a fish print from a rubber mold with paint onto paper. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Nov. 5, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Fontainebleau History Tour, 11 a.m. Meet the site ranger at the Sugar Mill ruins to learn about the history of the park then take a stroll down the Alley of Oaks while discussing the intriguing life of Bernard de Marigny and his influence on Louisiana's history. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Nov. 12, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Skulls & Furs, 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. The park ranger will guide participants in learning about the wildlife of the park by exploring the skulls and furs of many native species. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

Nov. 12, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Nature's Weapons, 11 a.m. Meet with the park ranger to discuss how animals defend themselves. From painful stingers to sharp teeth and how animals are prepared to defend and attack. For more information or to pre-register, call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Nov. 19, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Nature Hayride, 3 p.m. Meet at the Visitor Center where the site ranger will take participants on a tractor-pulled hayride to see Fontainebleau State Park. The site ranger will identify the flora and fauna encountered along the way with emphasis on poisonous plants. There is room for up to 30 participants. For more information or to pre-register, call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Nov. 25, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Pond Life, 3 p.m. Participants will use scoop nets to collect as many different kinds of aquatic wildlife from the fishing pond to lean about the biodiversity. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Nov. 26, Fairview Riverside State Park, Madisonville - Bird Hike, 8-9 a.m. Join the Interpretive Ranger at Fairview to enjoy a walk through Fairview and learn about birds commonly found in the park. Identification methods of birds and their eating and nesting habits will be covered. For more information, call 888-677-3247 toll free or 985-792-4652 locally.

Nov. 26, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Flint Knapping, 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. The park ranger will guide participants in learning the ancient art of flint knapping through a demonstration using both traditional and modern tools. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

OCTOBER 2011

Sundays, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Primitive Woodworking, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. This demonstration program features the use of a froe for splitting wood and the use of a shaving horse and drawknives to make wooden objects such as spoons, paddles, canes and tool handles. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Oct. 1, 8 & 29, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Nature: A Closer Look, 9 a.m. Participants will hike with a site ranger along the nature trail for a more observant look at the natural world and will discuss information from the tallest trees to the smallest spiders. The walk will pass through the East Marsh Boardwalk, the Alley of Oaks and end by the Old Sugar Mill. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Oct. 1, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Fish Prints, 10:30 a.m. Visitors will make a fish print from a rubber mold with paint onto paper. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Oct. 1, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Fontainebleau History Tour, 11 a.m. Meet the site ranger at the Sugar Mill ruins to learn about the history of the park then take a stroll down the Alley of Oaks while discussing the intriguing life of Bernard de Marigny and his influence on Louisiana's history. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Oct. 1, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Wonders of Wetlands, 1 p.m. Visitors will meet the site ranger on the lakefront to learn about erosion and discuss what is being done to preserve the shoreline of Lake Pontchartrain. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Oct. 8, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Outdoor Cooking, 10 a.m. - noon. The park ranger will conduct an open fire cooking demonstration in the style that was seen in the pioneer days of Louisiana. The demonstration will include a discussion of the recipe and history of the dish being prepared along with the process involved in open fire cooking. After the meal is prepared, guests will be given a sample of the dish as well as handouts with the recipe. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

Oct. 8 & 22, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Can I Eat That? 10:30 a.m. Join the site ranger for a hike focusing on edible plants that can be found along the nature trail. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Oct. 8, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Plant ID 101, 11 a.m. The park ranger will discuss the basic tools used in the identification of plants. For more information call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Oct. 15, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Skulls & Furs, 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. The park ranger will guide participants in learning about the wildlife of the park by exploring the skulls and furs of many native species. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

Oct. 22, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Flint Knapping, 10 a.m. - noon. The park ranger will guide participants in learning the ancient art of flint knapping through a demonstration using both traditional and modern tools. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

Oct. 22, Fontainebleau State Park, Mandeville - Nature Hayride, 3 p.m. Meet at the Visitor Center where the site ranger will take participants on a tractor-pulled hayride to see Fontainebleau State Park. The site ranger will identify the flora and fauna encountered along the way with emphasis on poisonous plants. There is room for up to 30 participants. For more information or to pre-register, call 888-677-3668 toll free or 624-4130 locally.

Oct. 25, Fairview-Riverside State Park, Madisonville - Louisiana Wetlands Exploration Day, 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. The LSU AgCenter Youth Wetlands Program and other non-profit educators join Fairview Interpretive Rangers to engage students in examining the importance of Louisiana's wetlands. Registration is required. For more information or to register school groups, call 888-677-3247 toll free or 985-845-3318 locally.

Oct. 29, Fairview-Riverside State Park, Madisonville - Halloween Hayride & Hoopla, 5:30-8 p.m. Fairview campers are invited to get in the spirit of Halloween with trick or treating, a hayride that features the history and legends of Halloween, and tours of the haunted swamp trail. For more information call 888-677-3247 toll free or 845-3318 locally.

Oct. 29-Nov. 6, Fairview-Riverside State Park, Madisonville - Victorian Mourning Customs, Wed-Sun: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Included with the Otis House tour, this program will examine mourning customs and etiquette of the late nineteenth century. For more information call 888-677-3247 toll free or 845-3318 locally.

Oct. 29, Bogue Chitto State Park, Franklinton - Halloween in the Park, 6-9 p.m. Guests are invited to decorate their site and visitors will enjoy a hayride then trick-or-treating the upland/bottomland camp grounds and voting on the best decorated site. For more information call 888-677-7312 toll free or 839-5710 locally.

Louisiana State Parks Calendar of Events Archive

NOTE: Listed in reverse chronological order (the most recent month is listed first)