Explore the Nature Center at Deer Creek State Park in Pickaway County, Ohio! Join ODNR Naturalist Rylee Santini to discover the plants, insects, and wildlife of Deer Creek State Park. Observe birds from the bird watching window and get a close-up look at specimens under the microscope. Designed for homeschool families with children ages 5–12. Free and open to the public.
Presented by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Contact: Rylee Santini | rylee.santini@dnr.ohio.gov Location: Deer Creek State Park Nature Center
Meet a live animal ambassador at Deer Creek State Park and learn about Ohio wildlife! ODNR Naturalist Rylee Santini will introduce you to the park’s resident animal and share what life looks like in the wild for their species. Ice cream is available for purchase from the Deer Creek Lodge gift shop — no purchase necessary to participate. Free family-friendly fun in Pickaway County, Ohio.
Presented by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Contact: Rylee Santini | rylee.santini@dnr.ohio.gov Location: Deer Creek Lodge and Conference Center Lobby
Paddle Deer Creek Lake on a guided kayak excursion with ODNR Naturalist Rylee Santini! No kayaking experience needed — all equipment is provided. Explore the natural beauty of Deer Creek State Park from the water while learning about local wildlife and ecosystems. Participants must be 11 or older; under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Weight limit 275 lbs. Liability waiver required. Limited to 5 participants per session — first come, first serve.
Presented by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) To register: Contact Rylee Santini | rylee.santini@dnr.ohio.gov
Paddle Deer Creek Lake on a guided kayak excursion with ODNR Naturalist Rylee Santini! No kayaking experience needed — all equipment is provided. Explore the natural beauty of Deer Creek State Park from the water while learning about local wildlife and ecosystems. Participants must be 11 or older; under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Weight limit 275 lbs. Liability waiver required. Limited to 5 participants per session — first come, first serve.
Presented by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) To register: Contact Rylee Santini | rylee.santini@dnr.ohio.gov
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary by racing to find 250 species at Deer Creek State Park! Search for plants, insects, birds, and animals across the park and log them using the free iNaturalist app. ODNR Naturalist Rylee Santini will provide an iNaturalist tutorial at the Nature Center before you explore. Bring a smartphone or tablet. Enclosed shoes and water recommended. Open to all ages — explore on your own or as a group. Free to attend.
Presented by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Contact: Rylee Santini | rylee.santini@dnr.ohio.gov Location: Start at the Nature Center
Learn the basics of composting at Deer Creek State Park in Pickaway County, Ohio! ODNR Naturalist Rylee Santini will show you what everyday items can be composted instead of thrown away — reducing food waste and creating rich soil for your garden. Take home a composting list and ideas to get started at home. Free program open to all ages.
Presented by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Contact: Rylee Santini | rylee.santini@dnr.ohio.gov Location: Deer Creek State Park Nature Center
Join ODNR Naturalist Rylee Santini for a guided walk along the Deer Creek State Park Storybook Trail — a half-mile gravel path through the campground with the pages of a children’s story posted along the route. A great outdoor activity for families with young kids visiting Deer Creek State Park in Pickaway County, Ohio. Free and open to the public.
Presented by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Contact: Rylee Santini | rylee.santini@dnr.ohio.gov Location: Meet at the Campground Parking Lot near the Storybook Trail sign
Meet a live animal ambassador at Deer Creek State Park and learn about Ohio wildlife! ODNR Naturalist Rylee Santini will introduce you to the park’s resident animal and share what life looks like in the wild for their species. Ice cream is available for purchase from the Deer Creek Lodge gift shop — no purchase necessary to participate. Free family-friendly fun in Pickaway County, Ohio.
Presented by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Contact: Rylee Santini | rylee.santini@dnr.ohio.gov Location: Deer Creek Lodge and Conference Center Lobby
Wade into the creek along Deer Creek State Park’s Hawkview Meadow Trail and discover the aquatic life hiding beneath the surface! ODNR Naturalist Rylee Santini will guide you in finding and identifying creek critters, macroinvertebrates, and fish — and explain how these species serve as water quality indicators. Approximately half-mile hike with uneven terrain. Supplies provided. Enclosed shoes required. Water recommended. Be prepared to get wet. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Presented by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Contact: Rylee Santini | rylee.santini@dnr.ohio.gov Location: Meet at the Nature Center
Try archery for the first time at Deer Creek State Park! All equipment is provided along with instruction from a certified Archery Instructor. Fun for the whole family and beginners of all ages. Enclosed shoes and a signed liability waiver (adult signature required) are mandatory. Participants must attend the safety brief at 4:30pm. Space is limited — sign up in advance using the QR code at the park.
Presented by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) To register: Contact Rylee Santini | rylee.santini@dnr.ohio.gov Location: Deer Creek State Park Nature Center
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