Ranger Programs / Learning Opportunities
Southeast Region
- Bahia Honda State Park
SAND AND SEA NATURE CENTER
Southeast Region
Thursday-Monday, 9 AM - 5 PM (Closed for lunch, 12-1 PM)
Free with park admission. Visit our Nature Center, on the Gulf side of the Old Bridge, to learn more about the park. We have a sea life display, a small marine aquarium and several environmental activities to explore. Ask about our Junior Ranger Program for the kids. Or, just cool off in the air conditioning and watch a nature video! Park staff will be available to answer your questions. Dates and times subject to change.
305-872-2353 - Bahia Honda State Park
BEACH NATURE WALK
Southeast Region
November, Tuesdays at 9:00 AM
Meet with a Park Ranger at Loggerhead Beach by the kayaks to start an informative walk. Learn about the wrackline, birds, butterflies and unique plants. Bring binoculars (if you have them) and wear old shoes that can get wet and sandy. (Limited to 15 people, sign up at Ranger Station)
305-872-2353 - Bahia Honda State Park
ILLUSTRATED TALKS
Southeast Region
November, Fridays at 1:00 PM
Join a park ranger at the Sand and Sea Nature Center for an illustrated talk. Topics will include information on Florida Keys' history, plants or animals. Seating is limited to 30.
305-872-2353 - Bahia Honda State Park
NATURE AND HISTORY QUEST
Southeast Region
Thursday-Monday, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Learn more about the park by taking a self-guided walk at the west end of Bahia Honda. Your ‘quest’ will take you through six learning stations, for a total distance of about a ½-mile. Visit the Sand and Sea Nature Center to get started on your learning adventure. Fun for all ages!
305-872-2353 - Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
GUIDED TOURS OF THE CAPE FLORIDA LIGHTHOUSE
Southeast Region
Thurs. - Mon., 10 AM & 1 PM
Situated on the tip of Key Biscayne, the Cape Florida Lighthouse is the oldest structure in Miami-Dade County. Cultural displays depicting early island life may be seen in the lighthouse keeper's cottage. A video presentation is shown in the former cookhouse. Pets are not permitted in the lighthouse compound. (Due to the large number of school groups accommodated for tours, please contact the park to determine tour availability.)
305-361-5811 - Curry Hammock State Park
RANGER-GUIDED NATURE WALK
Southeast Region
Fridays, November through May; 10:00 AM
Join a ranger for a 90-minute walk through the park's unique palm hammock. Along the way, you will gain an appreciation for the difficulties plants and animals face in the sub-tropical ecosystem. The narrow trail limits the walk to twelve people, reservations are recommended. Call the park at (305) 289-2690 for more information and reservations.
305-289-2690 - Curry Hammock State Park
RANGER-GUIDED KAYAK TOUR
Southeast Region
Tuesdays, November through May; 11:00 AM
Take a 90-minute paddle around one of the islands that comprise Curry Hammock State Park. This ranger-led tour will give you an appreciation for the fragility of the nearshore ecosystem. You will see some of the damage man has caused and learn of the ongoing effort to preserve this valuable resource. Tours are limited to six kayaks, bring your own or rent from the park. Call the park at (305) 289-2690 for more information and reservations.
305-289-2690 - Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
DELICATE BALANCE OF NATURE - LECTURE SERIES
Southeast Region
Wednesdays, January 13 - March 31, 2009, 7:30-9:00 p.m.
The staff from Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park will once again be hosting the "Delicate Balance of Nature" annual lecture series. Call (305) 451-9570 for agenda and additional information. Lectures will be held in the Visitor Center at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Park gates open at 7:00 p.m.; seating is limited. Call (305) 451-1202 for more details.
305-451-1202 - Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
HAMMOCK WALK
Southeast Region
Oct.-March (By appointment - weekends only)
Take a leisurely, ranger-guided walk through one of the few remaining stands of coastal hammock in South Florida. Observe plants native to this region. Walk lasts approximately one hour. Reservation required.
772-468-3985 - Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
BEACH CLEAN-UP
Southeast Region
1st Saturday of the Month (Weather permitting)
Join Ft. Pierce Inlet’s beach adopters from St. Andrews School in Ft. Pierce as they clear the beach of debris that is unsightly to people and dangerous to marine life. An interpretive program is scheduled every other month following the clean-up. Topics vary with the seasons.
772-468-3985 - Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
FORT TOURS
Southeast Region
Daily, 12 & 2 PM
Join a park ranger for a guided tour of Fort Zachary Taylor. Learn about the history and importance of this Civil War era fort that was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1973.
305-292-6713 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
GUIDED KAYAK TOURS
Southeast Region
Daily at High Tide
Tour fee. Single kayak, $20; double kayak, $35. This ranger-led, two-hour program provides an informative exploration of the estuary, Lake Worth Lagoon and Munyon Island. Daily tours take place at high tide. Please call the Ranger Station for scheduled times. Tours are on a first-come, first-served basis.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
NATURE WALKS
Southeast Region
Daily, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Join one of the staff naturalists for a one-mile Nature Walk through John D. MacArthur Beach State Park's four distinct habitats, and learn about the park's ecosystems and history. Walk is free with park admission and reservations are not required. Meet at the Nature Center.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
NATURE RIDES
Southeast Region
Daily, Reservation Required
Reservation only. Please call the Nature Center at least one week in advance. Offered as an alternative to our nature walks for those who may have difficulty walking long distances. Visitors ride in an open-air tram for a close-up view of the plants and wildlife. For information and reservations, please call the Nature Center at (561) 624-6952.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
WILLIAM T. KIRBY NATURE CENTER
Southeast Region
Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
15 minute - "Island in Time" video is shown throughout the day upon request. Professionally produced video introduction to the diverse ecology of the park. Also offers detailed overviews of the Park's habitats: the rock reef, dune, hammock, and estuary. Two large aquariums, live animals, and a gift shop round out the Nature Center.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
BIRDING AT MACARTHUR PARK
Southeast Region
December 27, 11:00 AM
Bird lovers can join a Ranger-led educational walk identifying many species of birds that make their home in John D. MacArthur Beach State Park. Reservations recommended. Visitors should bring binoculars or rent them at the park’s Nature Center. Walking tour is free with park admission. For more information, please call the Nature Center at (561) 624-6952.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
INTRODUCTION TO KAYAK FISHING
Southeast Region
November 21, 1:00 PM
Ranger Bill Wilson instructs kids and adults of all ages on the basics of kayak fishing. Lessons will be on land. Come and learn what equipment, tackle and gear are necessary to catch the big one. For more information and reservations, pleas call the Nature Center at (561) 624-6952. Free with park admission.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
KAYAK RENTALS
Southeast Region
Daily; 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Rent one of our single or double kayaks and explore the estuary. Manatees, Great Blue Herons and Osprey are some of the wildlife you will see. Hourly, half-day and full-day rates are available.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
SEASIDE TREASURES
Southeast Region
December 12; 11:00 AM
Join a Park Ranger and look for sea beans, shells, native plants and more. Learn all about the beachside community and join in a scavenger hunt. Great for the whole family! For more information and reservations, please call the Nature Center at (561) 624-6952. Free with park admission.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
BUTTERFLY WALK
Southeast Region
December 5, 11:00 AM
Join a Park Ranger on a walking tour through one of South Florida’s last remaining hardwood hammocks. There will be several species of butterflies to identify and observe. Also, learn which plants attract these winged wonders to your backyard. Reservations required. For more information and reservations, please call the Nature Center at (561) 624-6952. Free with park admission.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
YOGA ON THE BEACH
Southeast Region
December 3, 17; 8:30 AM
Come and awaken your inner spirit, while gazing out at the clear blue waters of John D. MacArthur Beach State Park. Join a yoga instructor as she guides you through an hour-long session on the beach. Bring a towel and drinking water. Reservations are required. For more information and reservations, please call the Nature Center at (561) 624-6952. Free with park admission.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
RECREATIONAL SKILLS: SURFING
Southeast Region
December 13, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Ranger Rob Matriscino instructs children 10 years of age and older and adults of all ages on the basics of surfing. Lessons will be on land and in the water. Bring your surfboard if you have one. Reservations required. For more information and reservations, please call the Nature Center at (561) 624-6952. Free with park admission.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
ANIMAL FEEDING
Southeast Region
Weekends; 11:00 AM
Come down to the Nature Center and watch a baby loggerhead sea turtle, French angelfish and a Florida King snake eat their breakfast!
At 3:00 p.m. on Sundays, come see a live rat snake and Florida Kingsnake in person and listen to a staff naturalist give a snake talk.
561-624-6950 - John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
LEARN TO KAYAK!
Southeast Region
December 6; 2:00 PM
Representatives from Adventure Times Kayaks will teach a land-based course that gives beginners the skills necessary for kayaking. Reservations are recommended. The program is free with park admission. For information and reservations call the Nature Center at (561) 624-6952.
561-624-6950 - John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
BOAT TOURS
Southeast Region
Daily, 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM
Fee. Enjoy a tour of the reef on the air-conditioned, glass-bottom boat "Spirit of Pennekamp" or get wet with a snorkeling tour. Tours depart three times a day, weather permitting. For reservations and information, call (305) 451-6300.
305-451-1202 - John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
RANGER-LED INTERPETIVE PROGRAM
Southeast Region
Year-round
Throughout the year, programs are offered to park visitors on a wide range of natural and cultural history subjects. Guided nature walks along the park's Mangrove and Wild Tamarind trails are offered as possible upon request by organized groups. Nature videos may be viewed in the Visitor Center theater. Call Park Services Specialist Elena Muratori at (305) 451-1202 to arrange for a program or walk.
For information on glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling tours, sailing/snorkeling tours, SCUBA lessons and tours, and canoe, kayak, and motorboat rentals, please contact the park concession at (305) 451-1621 or visit their website at: http://www.pennekamppark.com.
305-451-1202 - Jonathan Dickinson State Park
TRAPPER NELSON TOUR
Southeast Region
Thursday-Monday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Rental/Tour boat fee. Travel three miles up the Loxahatchee River, Florida's first federally-designated "Wild and Scenic River," to join a park ranger for a tour of Trapper Nelson's pioneer homesite. Accessible only by boat. Rental canoes, kayaks, motorboats, and tour boat available.
772-546-2771 - Jonathan Dickinson State Park
NATURE WALK
Southeast Region
Year-round, Sunday, 9:00 AM
Enjoy a ranger-guided walk through pine forests and across Wilson Creek or climb the Hobe Mountain Tower Trail. Comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent are recommended. Trails may sometimes be wet due to local flooding, so wear appropriate shoes. Check at the ranger station for location.
772-546-2771 - Jonathan Dickinson State Park
DIP-NET DISCOVERY
Southeast Region
Saturdays, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Join us at beautiful Pine Grove Lake and learn the secret inhabitants of its waters. After finding these incredible critters we will take a closer look under the microscopes in our air-conditioned lab.
Dates vary for this program, please call (561) 745-5551 for current information and registration (at least 2 days in advance preferred).
772-546-2771 - Jonathan Dickinson State Park
WILDLIFE TRACKS AND SIGNS
Southeast Region
Saturdays, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
What kind of wildlife live in Jonathan Dickinson State Park? Put on your detective hats and see if you can find evidence of our amazing wildlife and what they need to survive.
Dates vary for this program, please call (561) 745-5551 for current information and registration (at least 2 days in advance preferred).
772-546-2771 - Jonathan Dickinson State Park
AMAZING INSECTS
Southeast Region
Saturdays, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Take a nature walk along one of our beautiful trails and see what we can find. Then get a close-up look at our insect collection and learn about the variety of insects in our park.
Dates vary for this program, please call (561) 745-5551 for current information and registration (at least 2 days in advance preferred).
772-546-2771 - Jonathan Dickinson State Park
SNAKES ALIVE!
Southeast Region
Saturdays, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Join us to learn about Florida’s native snakes and meet 'King,' the 27-year-old kingsnake!
Dates vary for this program, please call (561) 745-5551 for current information and registration (at least 2 days in advance preferred).
772-546-2771 - Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park
RANGER-GUIDED TOUR
Southeast Region
Year-round, 10 AM & 2 PM
Thursday through Monday
$1/person, free admission for children under six. Ranger-guided tours of the park. Tour boat service available. Tour boat departs one-half hour before listed tour time.
305-664-2540 - Long Key State Park
RANGER'S CHOICE
Southeast Region
Thurs., Year-round, 10 AM
Something different every time! Programs include guided trail walks, interpretive talks, snorkeling, and beginning birding programs.
305-664-4815 - Long Key State Park
RANGER-GUIDED WALK
Southeast Region
Wed., December - May, 10 AM
Join a park ranger for a 2-hour walk along the Golden Orb Trail. The trail is approximately 1.3 miles long and traverses several different plant communities including coastal scrub and tropical hardwood hammock.
305-664-4815 - Savannas Preserve State Park
GUIDED CANOE TRIP
Southeast Region
Year-round - Call for dates and times
Knowledgeable volunteers lead canoe/kayak tours every Thursday morning at 9 a.m. and Saturday at 8 a.m. This is one of the most popular ways to explore the Savannas. Trips generally return after about 2 hours of exploration. Reservations are required for the trip and space is limited for this very popular program. Trips are available at other times during the week if requested. During the winter, moonlit paddles are offered monthly. Please contact the Education Center (Thursday through Monday) at (772) 398-2779 for additional information and reservations. No pets. Your $10.00 donation to the Friends of Savannas Preserve State Park, Inc. helps support park programs and projects.
772-398-2779 - Savannas Preserve State Park
INTERPRETIVE TALKS
Southeast Region
Year-round - Call for dates and times.
Join us for a series of informative talks covering a wide variety of natural and cultural subjects relating to the Savannas and the surrounding area. No pets.
772-398-2779 - Savannas Preserve State Park
SELF-GUIDED NATURE WALK
Southeast Region
Year-round, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Take a self-guided walk through this truly unique ecosystem; the last remaining remnant of savannas to be found on the southeast coast of Florida. A trail guide is available.
772-398-2779 - Savannas Preserve State Park
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER
Southeast Region
Year-round, Thurs. - Mon., 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Enjoy the interactive environmental and historical exhibits relating to the Savannas Preserve State Park and the surrounding area. The park now offers live animal exhibits! Call the Education Center for more information. The Center is located about two miles east of U.S. 1 on Walton Road in Port St. Lucie. No pets.
772-398-2779 - Savannas Preserve State Park
FROGWATCH - RECORD THE RIBBIT!
Southeast Region
First Saturday of the Month, 7:30 PM
Join us on the first Saturday of each month to learn about the frog population here at the park. This 'Citizen Science Monitoring Program,' sponsored by FrogWatch USA, gives YOU the opportunity to help scientists conserve amphibians! Being a FrogWatch volunteer gives you the opportunity to gather information that will help increase awareness of nationwide amphibian declines that can ultimately lead to practical and workable ways to help conserve these important species – all while helping you learn more about the wetlands in your community and the calls of frogs and toads in your community! Have fun while doing something important for frogs and their habitat.
772-398-2779 - St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park
SELF-GUIDED NATURE WALK
Southeast Region
Year-round, 8:00 AM - Sunset
Take a leisurely stroll along the park’s three-quarter-mile boardwalk that leads visitors from the estuarine tidal swamp, through the maritime hammock, and finally to the beach dune. 2.5 miles of pristine beach await you at the end of your walk. A covered pavilion and grills are located 150 feet from the beach. NO PETS are permitted on the beach.
772-219-1880 - The Barnacle Historic State Park
GUIDED TOURS OF THE BARNACLE
Southeast Region
Year-round, Fri.-Mon.; 10, 11:30, 1, 2:30
Situated on the shore of Biscayne Bay, The Barnacle Historic State Park features one of the oldest homes in Miami-Dade County in its original location. Home to pioneer boat designer Ralph Middleton Munroe, The Barnacle and surrounding grounds offer visitors a rare glimpse at a bygone era. Group tours available Wednesday and Thursday by advance reservation. The park is closed on Tuesday. Park entrance fee.
305-442-6866 - The Barnacle Historic State Park
YOGA BY THE SEA
Southeast Region
Wednesdays, 6 - 7:30 PM
Yoga will be on Tuesday, 11/24 so that participants and staff may spend Wednesday evening with friends and family on Thanksgiving preparations.
Enjoy a mid-week restorative yoga practice in the Real Florida, in the heart of the Grove. This class is for all levels and will be held on the grassy front lawn of The Barnacle overlooking Biscayne Bay (in case of rain, class will meet in the Micco Pavilion). Bring a mat, blocks, and a strap.
There is minimal parking inside the park, so car pool if possible and arrive prior to 6 p.m. to ensure that the class begins promptly. Enjoy the peace and tranquility that The Barnacle offers for Yoga by the Sea.
Classes are $13 each which includes park entrance fee.
305-442-6866 - Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
RANGER-GUIDED TOUR
Southeast Region
Year-round, 10 AM & 2 PM
Thursday through Monday
Tour fee is $1/person, free admission for children ages 6 and younger. Rangers give tours of the old quarries used by Henry Flagler and the subtropical hardwood hammock.
305-664-2540
