The Black Hills Parks and Forests Association (BHPFA) offers a diverse range of events and programs designed to connect individuals and families with the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Black Hills region. Their events calendar provides up-to-date information on upcoming activities, including workshops, guided hikes, educational programs, and special events. Whether you’re interested in enhancing your outdoor skills, participating in nature connection workshops, or joining our special events for women and girls, the BHPFA events calendar is a valuable resource for planning your next adventure.
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Field Notes Presentation | Smiling Sage Wellness, Hot Springs, SD
Field Notes Presentation | Smiling Sage Wellness, Hot Springs, SD
April 2, 20256:30 pm - 8:00 pm Smiling Sage Wellness, Hot Springs, SD
Field Note Presentations:
Black Hills Parks and Forests Association invites you to this presentation that will ignite your curiosity and spark your sense of wonder! Through pictures, videos, and stories, you’ll have the chance to learn about naturalist skills, tracking, survival techniques, and gain a deeper insight into our local flora and fauna. Test your knowledge as we dive into questions about the natural world and uncover the hidden meanings behind animal signs and calls! Plus, we’ll share how you can support our public lands alongside the Black Hills Parks & Forests Association!
Nature’s Clues: A Workshop in Animal Tracking and Signs
Step into the wild world of nature and see it like never before! In this hands-on workshop, we’ll go on a journey of discovery as we unlock the stories animals tell through the signs they leave behind. Through observation, curiosity, and wonder we’ll learn how to navigate the natural world by using our senses to follow the clues around us.
Together, we’ll explore animal tracks, scat, physiology, and other mysterious signs to answer questions like:
Who left this track behind?
Was the animal hunting, exploring, or feeling nervous?
What does the set of tracks tell us about its size, gender, or even if it’s pregnant?
Does it have horns or antlers?
Why is the animal in this location and how does it relate to the nearby ecosystem?
The natural world is filled with wonders and mysteries. Each sign has a unique story to share. Join us for a fun-filled adventure where we’ll uncover the hidden lives of animals and gain a deeper appreciation for the incredible world around us and the animals we share it with!
April 19, 20251:00 pm - 2:00 pm Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center, Custer, SD 57730, USA
To celebrate the 125th anniversary of the discovery of Jewel Cave, the site has been hosting monthly Discovery Hour presentations. The Discovery Hour presentation on April 19 will be at 1:00 p.m. and feature the history of the National Park Service from lead interpretive park ranger, Kierstan Basey.
April 19, 20251:00 pm - 3:00 pm Scotts Bluff National Monument, 190276 Old Oregon Trail, Gering, NE 69341, USA
Come out to Scotts Bluff National Monument on Saturday, April 19th, anytime between 1pm and 3pm to celebrate Junior Ranger Day! This FUN and FREE event is geared towards children aged 5 to 12, but all are welcome to participate. Participants will have a chance to:
Make a Pony Express mochila!
Paint a watercolor masterpiece like William Henry Jackson!
April 26, 202510:00 am - 11:30 am Scotts Bluff National Monument, 190276 Old Oregon Trail, Gering, NE 69341, USA
Family Nature Club is a monthly program that encourages families to explore the natural world together. Each month features a different interactive program with outdoor games and activities, perfect for all ages! Families receive an Exploration Kit to investigate nature, encouraging you to spend time outdoors together.
Each session is held 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Register Your Family via https://bit.ly/bcr-nefamily25 *Registration is required, unless otherwise noted. March 29 - Tracks, Scats & Signs, Oh My! April 26 - Nebraska’s Animal All-Stars May 17 - Fun with Our Feathered Friends Family Nature Club is intended for children and their grownups. Each family group will receive an Exploration Kit to use during the series to explore the natural world around them at home.
Family Nature Club will be outside the entire time unless otherwise noted. Please dress comfortably for the weather and bring snacks/water as needed. Family Nature Club will be gathering at the Scotts Bluff National Monument, 190276 Old Oregon Trail, Gering, NE 69341. For more information call 308-633-1013.
All are welcome. Our community of practice is to be an organization that empowers people of all backgrounds, beliefs, colors, and creeds to join in, benefit from, and contribute to our mission. We strive to ensure everyone feels safe and included at our programs and events, and can find a place for themselves in nature.
