State park offers plenty of activities throughout March

The Democrat welcomes comments. Inappropriate language or comments outside our standards will be removed. No guest or anonymous comments allowed.

March 8, 2013

State park offers plenty of activities throughout March

Anonymous Weatherford Democrat The Weatherford Democrat Fri Mar 08, 2013, 06:13 AM CST

By CHRIS AGEE | Lone Star News Group

The Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway is set for a busy March, with a variety of outdoor adventures for spring-break vacationers of all ages.

All of the events offered are free with paid admission to the park. Entrance fee for adults is $5 per person and children under 12 years of age are admitted free.

The fun begins Saturday at 7 p.m. with a program called “Night Sounds.”

Participants can experience the sights and sounds of North Texas nature through live and recorded sounds of creatures including insects, birds, frogs and mammals, while viewing accompanying slides showing the array of wildlife found in this region.

The following Saturday, March 16, park visitors are invited to take part in a study of binocular astronomy. Beginning at 8 p.m., participants will receive a quick course in binocular use and will even provide loaners for those without their own pair.

Individuals taking advantage of the presentation will enjoy a big, Texas night sky and become more familiar with seasonal constellations and celestial bodies.

The third Saturday event planned for the month is a Kid’s Wilderness Survival course. Set to begin at 1 p.m. and last until 3:30 p.m., youth participants are led on a fun and informative interactive lesson emphasizing tips to avoid becoming turned around in the woods and steps to take if they ever are lost.

Children will learn through games, presentations and a nature trail hike. The park requires all youth be accompanied by a parent, guardian or youth group leader while on the course.

Participation in the event is limited to the first 25 individuals and those interested can reserve a spot by calling (940) 328-1171.

Finally, park visitors are invited to Storytelling Down in the Holler, which will begin at 7:30 p.m. March 30. Park Interpreter

David Owens will lead the event, which will be held at Penitentiary Hollow and include various stories ranging from fun to frightening. Whether recounting tales of regional folklore, cowboy poetry or just painting a captivating picture with words, the event promises something for everyone.