Maryland 2024 - Enjoy spring wildflowers, learn about beavers, and join Maryland Natural Resources for a hike in April!
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April 2: Nature Crafts – Modeling Clay Flowers
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Nature Center
Spring is here and plants are growing after their winter hibernation. Some plants start the spring by growing flowers. Explore the park and see if you can find plants that have spring flowers, and plants that do not. Then, join us to make your own flowers out of modeling clay!
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April 6: The Secret Life of Opossums, Raccoons, and Skunks
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Nature Center
Although seldom seen in the daytime, opossums, raccoons, and skunks lead very interesting lives. Learn about the characteristics, habits, similarities, and differences of these woodland mammals by examining their pelts, skulls, and dentition.
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April 7: International Beaver Day
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Nature Center
Join a Volunteer Naturalist to learn about nature’s engineers. We will explore their behavior, habitat, and more!
April 13 and 28: Reptile Encounter
11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Nature Center
Reptiles play a vital role in the ecology of our natural world. Learn more about this interesting group of animals and get the chance to see a live corn snake.
April 14: Cemetery Trail Hike
1 p.m. at the Nature Center
Join a Volunteer Ranger for a hike of the park’s Cemetery (red) trail. Learn about the agricultural and natural history of the park and a prominent, formerly enslaved landowner and his family. The hike will be about 3.5 miles round trip and visits the historic Howard Chapel Cemetery. There are two “step across” creek crossings and varied terrain. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. Meet at the Nature Center.
April 16: Nature Crafts – State Parks Week
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Nature Center
April 15 – 22 is State Parks Week! In celebration, we have two crafts to choose from. First is a simple coloring sheet to create My MD Ranger. More complex is a chance to Design Your Own State Park with everything that YOU think should be included!
April 20: Patuxent River Changes
11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Nature Center
Natural events can rapidly change the course of a river. Flooding along the Patuxent River during late January storms expanded the dam at the bend of the river and made substantial changes to the channel. We will walk along the bank of the river to discuss changes to the river valley over time.
April 21: Water Mills in Patuxent River State Park
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Nature Center
The upper Patuxent River and its tributaries were the location of several water-powered mills. These mills supported the landowners by grinding grain, cutting lumber, and a variety of other functions. Join us to learn about the history of mills identified in the park and the surrounding area.
April 23: Nature Crafts – Pollinator Simulator
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Nature Center
Let’s learn how bees pollinate flowers. We will make fuzzy bee puppets and use them in a Pollinator Simulator to show how pollen moves from flower to flower.
April 27: Foraging for the Invasive Garlic Mustard
12 Noon at the Nature Center
You can make a mean pesto out of garlic mustard! This invasive plant with the pungent odor needs yearly removal before it produces seeds and spreads even more. Join a Volunteer Ranger from 12 Noon until about 2 p.m. as we work to eradicate these easy-to-pull plants from the grounds and trails of the park. You might even choose to take some home to make your own pesto!
April 28: What is Happening in Our Pond?
12 Noon - 4 p.m. at the Nature Center
Join a Volunteer Naturalist to observe and investigate the changes happening to the pond in front of the Nature Center. We will examine the plants and animals of the pond and learn about the natural process of pond succession.
April 30: Nature Crafts – Pinwheels
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Nature Center
Spring is frequently accompanied by breezy weather as the air warms and moves around. You can’t see wind, but you can see its effects! Come build your own wind detector, and traditional toy: the pinwheel!
Unless otherwise noted, events are held rain or shine, free and fun for all ages; donations are always welcome. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.
Dress for the weather/activity, wear sunscreen and insect repellent, bring plenty of water and snacks, and remember to check for ticks.
Please email patuxentriver.statepark@maryland.gov or call 443-962-0216 for additional information or to register (recommended).
