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March 31 2026

Bird Your Preserves: Bird Banding at Stage’s Pond

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Start your morning with the birds during Bird Your Preserves: Bird Banding at Stage’s Pond, hosted by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

This unique, family-friendly program takes place at Stage’s Pond State Nature Preserve near Ashville in Pickaway County, where participants can experience bird banding up close and learn about the science behind this important research.

Guests will observe a professional bird bander demonstrating how birds are safely captured, studied, and released as part of ongoing conservation efforts. It’s a rare opportunity to see native bird species up close while gaining insight into how researchers track migration and monitor bird populations.

Advance registration is required and must be completed by May 7 by calling 740-380-8918 or emailing kayla.bowyer@dnr.ohio.gov.

March 31 2026

Stage’s Pond Trillium Hike

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Experience one of spring’s most beautiful natural displays during the Stage’s Pond Trillium Hike, hosted by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

This guided hike takes place at Stage’s Pond State Nature Preserve near Ashville, a hidden gem in Pickaway County known for its seasonal wildflower blooms. Participants will explore a 1.5-mile easy boardwalk trail while learning about Ohio’s state wildflower, the trillium, and the diverse plant life that thrives in this protected wetland habitat.

Perfect for families and nature lovers, this program offers a chance to enjoy the spring wildflower show in a peaceful outdoor setting. Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.

The group will meet at the Stage’s Pond parking lot before beginning the hike.

June 3 2025

Kayak Excursion

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Enjoy a guided nature paddle on Deer Creek Lake. No experience needed and all equipment is provided. Limited to 5 participants per session. Pre-registration required.
For more information, contact Naturalist Rylee Clift at rylee.clift@dnr.ohio.gov.

Deer Creek State Park Marina

June 3 2025

Evening Hike

Join a naturalist for a 1-mile evening hike with lakeside and woodland views. Enclosed shoes and weather-appropriate gear required. Meet at the campground lot near the bridge.
For more information, contact Naturalist Rylee Clift at rylee.clift@dnr.ohio.gov.

Rolling Hills Trail, Deer Creek Campground

June 3 2025

Into the Outdoors

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Explore how to get outside and connect with nature through weekly rotating topics. This is a relaxed and interactive session with displays and tips for outdoor beginners and enthusiasts alike.
For more information, contact Naturalist Rylee Clift at rylee.clift@dnr.ohio.gov.

June 3 2025

Critters and Cones

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Meet one of Deer Creek’s animal ambassadors and enjoy a sweet treat from the lodge gift shop. Learn about the animal’s species, habitat, and role in the wild. This is a drop-in style event perfect for families. Ice cream available for purchase but not required to participate.
For more information, contact Naturalist Rylee Clift at rylee.clift@dnr.ohio.gov.

June 3 2025

Kayak Excursion

Explore the lake on a guided kayaking trip. No experience necessary; all equipment is provided. Participants must be 13+ and under the kayak weight limit of 275 lbs. Limited to 5 people.
For more information, contact Naturalist Rylee Clift at rylee.clift@dnr.ohio.gov.

A.W. Marion State Park Marina