Outdoor Family Fun

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Swift night out at Wakulla Springs State Park Sept. 11

During Swift Night Out, people all over the country gather at chimneys to watch and count chimney swifts as they enter their roost. On Sat., Sept. 11, 2021 join the park ranger at Wakulla Springs State Park for an evening enjoying the chimney swifts from 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. The Lodge at Wakulla Springs has a large flock that roosts in one of its inactive chimneys. Come witness the “flying cigar” shaped birds perform their swirling aerial dance prior to their descent...

Swimming Allowed in Lake DeFuniak Beginning August 28, 2021

Swimming permitted between Chautauqua Hall Amphitheater DeFuniak Springs citizens and guests can now swim in Lake DeFuniak beginning Saturday, August 28 in Chipley Park through Thursday, September 30, 2021, 8 am to sunset and Sundays 12:30 to 5pm.  City government leaders decided to reopen the coveted spring-fed lake for swimming for the first time since 1964 in a recent council meeting.  Although the 2021 swimming season in Lake DeFuniak is only about a month long due to the timing of...

Washington County Sheriff’s Rodeo Sept. 10, 11

The Washington County Sheriff’s Toys for Kids Rodeo will be held at the Washington County Equestrian Center located at 2574 Daniel’s Lake Rd. on Friday, September 10, and Saturday, September 11, 2021. Tickets are $10 per person with kids 5 and under free.  Gates will open at 5 p.m.  Rodeo at 7 p.m.  This will be a PCA sanctioned rodeo. $8 Advance ticket, $10 at the gate 5 and under free. Tickets are on sale at the following locations: The...

Stargazing at Eden Gardens State Park Sept. 10

Members of the Northwest Florida Astronomy Association will set up telescopes for an evening of stargazing at Eden Gardens State Park from 7 – 9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 10. Bright galaxies, star clusters and planets might be visible. The set up will be on the lawn in front of the Wesley house. Feel free to bring your own telescope. Wear weather appropriate clothing, and bring red filters for any flashlights and bug repellent. Event is weather permitting. Event Essential Eligibility...

History tour at Camp Helen State Park Sept. 4

Enjoy a history tour of Camp Helen State Park from 10 – 11 a.m. on the first Saturday of the month. Join park staff and volunteers on a walk through the rich history of the park. Learn about the early indigenous people who occupied this land all the way through to the 1920s when the park was developed as a private residence for the Hicks family and later turned into a summer retreat for Avondale Textile mill employees and their families....

Ranger led nature hike at Camp Helen State Park Sept. 2

Enjoy a ranger-led nature hike at Camp Helen State Park on Thursday, Sept. 2 from 10 – 11 a.m. Join in for a ranger-guided nature hike. Camp Helen boasts nine distinct natural communities throughout the park with varied flora and fauna. Learn about our rare coastal dune lake, Lake Powell, as well as the park wildlife. Hike is suitable for all ages. Dress for the weather; water and bug spray are recommended. Park Fees There is an honor entrance station. The fee is...

Guided kayak tour at Rocky Bayou State Park Aug. 20

The Friends of Emerald Coast State Parks are hosting an interpretive kayak tour at Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park on Fri., Aug. 20 from 9 – 11 a.m. Meet the local wildlife and enjoy the scenic views of the bayou on an interpretive guided tour with Park Ranger Bruce and friends. Kayaks, life vests and paddles will be provided for a fee of $25 per person. Bring your own kayak and join in on the fun for only $5....

Movies and smores at Camp Helen State Park Aug. 5

::CANCELLED:: Movies and Smores series at Camp Helen State Park season continues. Season finale takes place with the movie “Lion King” and an interpretive display about our feathered friends in the sky. Food truck onsite from late afternoon into the evening. The event is on Thursday, Aug. 5 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. and begins with smores around the bonfires and a souvenir cup. Movie begins at sunset. For more information, call the park at 850-233-5059. Event Essential Eligibility Criteria...