NATURE CENTER Friday through Sunday 2-4 p.m. Come take a look at some live animals that call Lake Charles State Park home. A park interpreter will be on hand to answer questions. Located near the swim beach in the day use area.

Friday, July 13

THE INDUSTRIOUS BEAVER 1:30 p.m. Nature Center American Indians called beavers the sacred center of the land because this animal creates a rich, watery habitat for other mammals, fish, turtles, frogs, and birds. Learn more about this industrious species, and see and touch beaver fur and skulls.

INCREDIBLE REPTILES 3:00 p.m. Nature Center Reptiles share many characteristics, but there are also incredible differences among them. Come discover what makes an animal a reptile, and see examples such as snakes, turtles, and an alligator.

Saturday, July 14

FEED THE CRITTERS 1:30 p.m. Nature Center Have you ever watched a snake have a snack or a newt have a nibble? It’s dinner time in the nature center at Lake Charles State Park! We will be feeding snakes, alligator, fish, turtles, and more, so come to watch the animals eat and learn about how they feed themselves in the wild.

SIDEWALK CHALK 3:00 p.m. Nature Center Help our park interpreter decorate the sidewalks outside the nature center with colorful drawings of your favorite Arkansas animals.

Sunday, July 15

SCENIC LAKE TOUR

9:00 a.m.

Bring the family and your sense of adventure, and come enjoy a cruise on Lake Charles. Discover the history of the lake, watch for wildlife, take photographs, or just relax. Seating is limited, so make your reservation at the visitor center. Cost: $7 adults, $3.50 kids ages 6-12, under 6 free

ARKANSAS INVASIVE SPECIES 1:30 p.m. Nature Center Invasive species are plants and animals that have been introduced to this area and cause harm in their new home. Discover some of the invasive species that can be found in Arkansas, and find out what you can do to help control these pests.

TURTLE TALK 3:00 p.m. Nature Center Discover some of the many types of turtles found in and around Lake Charles. Meet a park interpreter at the nature center to see both land and water turtles, and learn about these creatures’ special adaptations.