Clean water is important to both wildlife and humans. Learn about macroinvertebrates and how they help determine water quality. We will collect animals along the edge of the lake, perform water quality tests, and learn about aquatic food webs. Participants will be getting in the water, so rubber boots or other sturdy, waterproof shoes are a must! Parents/guardians are welcome to stay for the program or drop-off. Schedule: Sep 9, 2026 Wednesday from 1pm to 3pm Duration: 2 hours Ages: Age at least 6 yrs but less than 14 yrs,

Pickleball is a paddle sport which combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis. No need to worry about the weather, this open recreation sport will have participants enjoying friendly game play in a climate controlled indoor setting. Ages: All ages,

Join one of our naturalist staff members on a guided hike around the park to discover the plants and animals that live here! Come prepared to hike at least a mile on natural surfaces by wearing closed-toe shoes and bringing a full water bottle. For ages 7 and up. Registration is required for all participants, and children must have adult accompaniment. Meet at the park office, the first building on your left as you enter the park. Schedule: Sep 11, 2026 Friday from 10am to 11:30am Duration: 1 hour 30 mins Ages: 7 yrs +,

Adventure in nature with your preschooler at the park. We'll read a nature-themed book, then take a walk on the wild side to find the nature right outside our door. Children must be accompanied by a parent, and of course, wear boots or sneakers that can get a little dirty! Parents must accompany children. Pre-registration is required. Please note this program is weather dependent. Ages: Age at least 1 yr but less than 6 yrs,

Embark on an outdoor adventure designed for curious kids. We’ll dive deeper into nature with hands-on activities, explore the park’s trails, and discover the wildlife and plants that call it home. Each session includes an engaging nature-focused project and time to investigate the world around us. Children should come ready to explore and wear shoes that can get a little dirty. Preregistration is required. Ages: Age at least 5 yrs but less than 8y 11m,

with Susan Campbell, Hummingbird Researcher and Naturalist Join Susan Campbell, a licensed hummingbird bander and lead researcher in North Carolina, for an engaging look at the fascinating lives of ruby-throated hummingbirds. Drawing on more than 25 years of research, Susan will explore the identification, ecology, and seasonal movements of North Carolina’s only native hummingbird. She’ll also share practical tips for creating gardens that provide the nectar and habitat these remarkable birds need. Following the presentation, participants will have the opportunity to watch a live hummingbird banding demonstration. Using live traps set up in the garden, Susan will demonstrate how researchers safely capture, handle, measure, and band hummingbirds before releasing them, explaining how banding contributes to our understanding of these tiny birds and their conservation. This program is offered in partnership with New Hope Bird Alliance. Fee: $25 ($22 Members) REGISTER HERE

Interested in learning about Pickleball? Dive into the world of Pickleball with our beginner-friendly class at Bethesda Park designed for new players! This introductory course covers essential skills and rules you need to start playing and enjoying one of the fastest-growing sports in America. Over the course of four sessions, you will learn from one of our experienced certified instructors who specializes in making the game accessible and fun. No experience? No problem. Come out and learn why people of all ages are excited about the sport of Pickleball! Please wear tennis shoes or court shoes, bring your paddle and a water bottle. Balls and nets will be provided. Ages: Age at least 18 yrs but less than 99 yrs,

Join us for a three-part training to learn all about tree planting and learn how to help lead volunteers as a Durham County Tree Keeper!

Dates: 9/17/2026 · Ages: 10

Join park staff on a short hike to the Wetlands Boardwalk, where we can watch Ruby-throated Hummingbirds visiting the blooms of Jewelweed, one of the birds’ favorite plants. For the last few years in September, we have often seen dozens of hummingbirds flying from flower to flower, gathering nectar to fuel them on their long migration to Mexico and Central America. Learn more about these magnificent birds, and see how many we can find! For all ages. Registration is required, and adult accompaniment is required for all children. FREE. Please arrive at the park office five minutes early for program check-in. Schedule: Sep 17, 2026 Thursday from 9am to 10am Duration: 1 hour Ages: All ages,

The history of Little River is deeply connected to the broader story of the LGBTQ+ rights movement in Durham. While Little River is a wonderful place to paddle and enjoy nature, it is also a site of profound tragedy. DPR Outdoor Recreation & Historic Programs staff wants to honor both its beauty and its significance in this important history. Come on a two-mile pride paddle with us. We will provide the equipment; you bring weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Registration is required for all. Ages: 7 yrs +,

Learn about invasive plant species around the park and help keep your local ecosystem healthy by joining us to remove invasive species! Volunteers will use loppers, hand clippers and other tools to remove Chinese Privet and Tree of Heaven. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and come prepared to walk off-trail with closed-toe shoes, long pants, and sun protection. Bringing a full water bottle is recommended. Tools and gloves are provided. All participants must complete a Volunteer Waiver Form prior to the event or in person on the day of the event. Registration is required. FREE. Meet at the park's AE Finley Visitor Center. Schedule: Sep 20, 2026 Sunday from 9am to 11am Duration: 2 hours Ages: 18 yrs +,

Join us for this special hike to celebrate the fall equinox, which marks the first day of Fall. Come along with park staff members to look for signs of the changing season and enjoy fresh air with old and new friends. This hike will be approximately 3 miles on natural surface trails. Bring water, snacks, and sturdy footwear. Registration is required for all participants. Ages: Age at least 8 yrs but less than 99 yrs,