Parks and Recreation
Mill Mountain Discovery Center |
The Discovery Center creates an awareness and appreciation of Mill
Mountain’s beautiful natural resources via environmental education exhibits,
programs and classes. More than 140 programs on wildlife,
geology, ecology, mountain flora, fauna, natural history and human impact have
been offered in the past two years thanks to our professional staff and
dynamic partnerships. We would love for you and your family to
make yourselves at home at The Discovery Center and find out about the
natural wonders in our own backyard!
For Program Informatin Contact: Paul Chapman (Mill Mountain Park Programmer) or Christine Langan (Mill Mountain Naturalist) at 540-853-1236 or email Paul Chapman and Christine Langan
All classes and programs will meet at the Mill Mountain Discovery Center!
Finding Your Way with GPS
(12+) This fun program will give you lots of hands-on learning using Global Positioning System (GPS) units. You will discover the principles behind these useful tools, their many applications, and be introduced to the sport of geocaching. An adventurous spirit is a must. GPS units are provided. $9.
136011-A Sat. 8/23 9 a.m.-noon
NEW! Eco-Explorers
(4-10) "Eco" comes from the Latin word for house. Enter nature's house and discover how plants and animals live together. We will do fun activities and crafts as you become an eco-explorer. This activity is open to everyone and meets the requirements for the Brownie Girl Scout Try It Badge for Eco-Explorer. $5.
136607-A Sat. 9/13 10-11:30 a.m.
Nature's Dangers Hike
(6+) Poison ivy, black widow spiders, and stinging nettle! Have you ever taken a walk in the woods and wondered which plants to avoid or which animals to watch out for? On this hike you will learn all about the interesting plant and animal defenses that you should be award of when hiking. $5.
136303-A Sat. 9/27 10 a.m.-noon
Go Geocaching!
(13+) Join us for an adventuresome morning of geocaching! We will spend a short time introducing those who are new to geocaching to the sport. Then we'll explore the area in search of Mill Mountain's many caches. Sturdy shoes, strong legs and an adventurous spirit are a must. GPS units will be provided. $5
236013-A Sat. 9/20 10 a.m. - Noon
Nature's Classroom Series |
This popular series for home-school students
offers hands-on learning opportunities in nature
as well as a chance to meet other children and
make new friends.
All classes and programs will meet at the Mill Mountain Discovery Center!
NEW! Slime Time!
(6-10) Slime rules in the world of slugs and snails! Find out what it's like to carry your house on your back, what a slug's worst enemy is, and what snails and octopuses have in common. This captivating Nature's Classroom program will teach children all about these slimy critters and their important role in our ecosystem. $5
136600-B T 9/23 9-11 a.m.
NEW! Celebrating the Outdoors
(6-10) This fun-filled Nature's Classroom will take your students out on the trails of Mill Mountain. We will be exploring the forest while collecting items for our nature craft.
236601-A Th 10/28 10 a.m. - Noon
This series helps parents introduce their children to the amazing natural world. You
and your child will explore nature through hands-on activities, games and crafts.
All classes and programs will meet at the Mill Mountain Discovery Center!
Discovery Hour: Summer Series
(4-10) Find out how to think like a tree, learn how to crawl like a snake, and what a bird's best tool is. These are just a few of the things you will discover during these fun-filled programs each Saturday. We will go on mini expeditions, play fun games, read exciting stories, and create amazing crafts. $5
136613-C Bird Basics Sat 8/16 9-10 a.m.
136613-D Amazing Mammals Sat 8/23 9-10 a.m.
NEW! A Snail's Tale
(3-5) Snails and slugs are the fascinating topic of this gross Junior Naturalists Program. Students will learn all about the slimy world of these gastropods and how they walk on their "stomachs." So slide up to the Discovery Center for a fun time! $5
136001-B T 9/16 9-10 a.m.
NEW! Wiggly Worms
(3-5) Earthworms are nature's gardeners, always plowing and fertilizing our soil. Students will have an up-close encounter with these misunderstood wigglers. $5
236600-A T 10/21 10-11 a.m.
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