Calvert Nature Society - Our Programs

First Friday Hike at Kings Landing Park

When
10/02/2026
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Location
Kings Landing Park
Spaces left
2

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Ages 8 and up with adults

Celebrate Walktober! Join the park ranger for a guided walk along the trails of Kings Landing Park and discover the nature and history of the park.

This is a moderate 1 to 2 mile hike on uneven surfaces and is best suited for ages 8 and up. Well-behaved pets on leashes welcome. The trails are not stroller friendly.

Location: Kings Landing Park

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$4 per family for nonmembers

Advanced Reservations are required - Please register by: 9/30/26

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Walktober Hike

When
10/03/2026
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
18

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This program is appropriate for all ages. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. This program includes an approximately 3 mile hike and is not stroller-friendly.

Walktober is a statewide intiative started by the Maryland Department of Transportation that encourages residents to increase physical activity in a fun, community-oriented way while creating awareness for pedestrian safety. Celebrate Walktober with us at Flag Ponds Nature Park with a 3-mile hike along forested and beach trails.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Advanced Reservations are required - Please register by: October 2

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Teen Homeschool Series: Aquatic Explorations Session 2

When
10/07/2026
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary
Spaces left
3

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For students ages 12-16 years old. No parent needed.

This series will focus on the wide variety of aquatic habitats present in Calvert County. Each of the 3 sessions will take place at a different Calvert County Nature Park, giving students the opportunity to explore the Chesapeake Bay, Patuxent River, and a variety of creeks and ponds in between. Teens are encouraged to attend all three sessions, but it is not required.

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary

Naturalist: Gene Groshon

Advanced registration is required.

Program Fee:

Members: free

Nonmembers: $8 per teen

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Ward Farm History Hike

When
10/10/2026
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location
Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park
Spaces left
4
Registered
2 registrants

Register

Ages 8 and up, families, adults

Step back in time and explore the evolving landscape of Ward Farm Park on this guided history and nature hike. Trace how the land has changed over time—from its agricultural roots to the protected natural space we enjoy today. As you walk scenic trails, discover how past land use has shaped today’s habitats, influencing the plants, wildlife and ecosystems you see around you. This engaging hike offers a deeper understanding of the connection between history, land use and the natural world. This is a moderate, approximately 2.5-mile hike over some steep terrain and is not stroller friendly.

Location: Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Program fees are per family. Please register all your children on one entry.

Naturalist in charge: Jessy Oberright

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Going Batty Campfire

When
10/10/2026
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Location
Kings Landing Park
Spaces left
6

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For adults and families.

Gather around the fire for a bat-tastic evening under the stars! Discover the secret lives of our local bats—their nighttime adventures, amazing echolocation skills, and the important role they play in keeping pesky insects in check. Enjoy lighthearted games, playful challenges, and plenty of laughs as we celebrate these mysterious creatures of the night. And of course, no campfire is complete without roasting marshmallows and sharing a sweet treat by the glow of the fire!

What to bring - a blanket or camp chairs to sit on.

This is an after-hours event. Participants will receive instructions for accessing the park after hours via email.

In the event of rain, this event will be canceled.

Location: Kings Landing Park

Naturalist in Charge: Jessy Oberright

Advanced Reservations are required. No walk-ins allowed.

Program Fee:
Free for members.
$8 per family for non-members.

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Life on the Edge Overnight

Start
10/16/2026
7:30 AM
End
10/17/2026
4:00 PM
Location
Meet at Battle Creek Nature Center and travel to Assateague Island National Seashore
Spaces left
1

Registration is closed

Welcome letter and packing list now available here

For students in grades 6-8

Location: We will meet at Battle Creek Nature Centerthen we'll travel by van to Assateague Island National Seashore.

Experience the magic of the coast at our overnight adventure! Explore the bay, camp under the stars, cook over a fire, and hike through nature's wonders.

This isn’t just any overnight trip—it’s your chance to step into the wild and experience the magic of the coast firsthand! Picture this: you’ll be trekking through breathtaking landscapes, camping beneath a sky full of stars, cooking dinner over an open fire and discovering the wonders of the bay with your friends. Every moment will be an adventure, from the stunning hikes to late-night stories by the fire.

Spaces are limited, so don’t wait! Grab your spot and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Friday, October 16, 7:30 a.m. through Saturday, October 17, 4:00 p.m.

Mandatory pre-trip meeting for all participants and their families on Thursday, October 1 at 6:30-7:30 pm at Battle Creek Nature Center. Each camper and a parent or guardian must attend.

Naturalist in charge: Tania Gale

Fee per child:

Society members pay $110 per person.
Nonmembers pay $140 per person.

Please register by September 29.

Each child must be registered separately.

Includes:

Entrance into the National Park.
Camp duffle bag.
Hands-on experience cooking dinner together over a campfire.
Night walk.
Campfire dinner and s'mores Friday, Saturday breakfast and lunch included, but bring lunch and a snack for Friday.
Tents provided (2 people/tent) – must have own sleeping bag.

Packing list can be found here and will be emailed to participants in late September.

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Building for Butterflies

When
10/20/2026
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location
Calvert Library Southern Branch
Spaces left
18

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For adults and older teens

Speaker: Alice Merkel

Location: Calvert Library Southern Branch
13920 HG Trueman Rd, Solomons, MD 20688

The Calvert Marine Museum Education Department, through the efforts of Alice Merkel, was able to obtain a grant from the Cove Point Natural Heritage Trust in order to create a Butterfly Waystation to support local pollinators and assist the Monarch Butterflies in their annual migration. By planting of native Milkweed Common plants and other native plants, it is our hope that this will create new opportunities for educational interpretation to visitors to the site about the importance of pollinators to the greater Chesapeake Bay region.

An experienced museum professional in both collections and education, Alice Merkel, is a senior Educational Interpreter at the Calvert Marine Museum.

Light Refreshments will be provided.

This free lecture series is supported by a generous grant from Cove Point Natural Heritage Trust.

Reservations are recommended, but not required

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Read our full policy statement and waiver

The Calvert Nature Society Presents environmental lecture series is a year-long educational initiative designed to engage Calvert County residents with accessible, informative and inspiring presentations on environmental topics relevant to Southern Maryland. Each lecture is free and open to the public.

In addition to lectures, the series will showcase natural science research projects and assessments in Southern Maryland – especially the small grant projects that CPNHT supports – as well as other volunteer based activities that contribute to the improvement of the environmental health of our local ecosystem.

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All About Owls (Session 1)

When
10/22/2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Spaces left
2

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For Ages 3 to 5 years
Adult participation is required

Learn about the different owls that call our area home and how they use their special features to hunt in the darkness. We will even get a chance to see our ambassador owls up close!

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Naturalist in charge: Gene Groshon

Reservations are required.

Registration Deadline: Sunday, Oct 18

Program Fee:
Free for members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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All About Owls (Session 2)

When
10/22/2026
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Spaces left
7

Register

For Ages 3 to 5 years
Adult participation is required

Learn about the different owls that call our area home and how they use their special features to hunt in the darkness. We will even get a chance to see our ambassador owls up close!

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Naturalist in charge: Gene Groshon

Reservations are required.

Registration Deadline: Sunday, Oct 18

Program Fee:
Free for members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Star Party

When
10/30/2026
8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Location
Kings Landing Park

Register

All ages, families and adults

Prepare to be amazed as we welcome the Southern Maryland Astronomical Society (SMAS) to Kings Landing Park for an evening of public stargazing. SMAS will bring their telescopes and be our guides for this adventure through the night skies.

What to bring: Dress warmly and keep in mind the changeable weather at this time of the year, wear sturdy shoes and a flashlight to walk to and from observation site (<1/4 mile). Feel free to bring your own telescope if desired. PLEASE NOTE: Flashlights must be kept off in the observation area or have red lenses to not interfere with participants' night vision.

This is an after-hours event. Participants will park by Wisner Hall (the large building straight ahead as you enter the park) and walk to the observation area near the Equestrian Ring.

This event is weather and sky condition-dependent. In the event that we need to cancel, the rain date will be Sunday, November 1st.

Location: Kings Landing Park

Naturalist in Charge: Jessy Oberright

This program is open to the public. RESERVATIONS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED.

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Trails and Tales: October Book Club

When
10/31/2026
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Gatewood Preserve
Spaces left
18

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Adults only

Join our monthly hiking book club, Trails and Tales. We will read a new book every month and discuss it while hiking at one of our beautiful Calvert County parks. The hikes are the last Saturday of the month.

Our October book selection will be "The Overstory" by Richard Powers.

Location: Gatewood Preserve

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Program Fee:
Free for members
$8 per person for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Teen Homeschool Series- Aquatic Explorations Session 3

When
11/04/2026
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Kings Landing Park
Spaces left
6

Register

For students ages 12-16 years old. No parent needed.

This series will focus on the wide variety of aquatic habitats present in Calvert County. Each of the 3 sessions will take place at a different Calvert County Nature Park, giving students the opportunity to explore the Chesapeake Bay, Patuxent River, and a variety of creeks and ponds in between.

Location: Kings Landing Park

Naturalist: Jessy Oberright

Advanced registration is required.

Program Fee:

Members: free

Nonmembers: $8 per teen

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Raptor Identification Workshop

When
11/14/2026
10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Location
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Spaces left
4

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Adults Only

Identifying hawks, falcons and other day time raptors can be difficult but they are wonderful birds to observe. We'll have a short classroom presentation on how to identify these birds by their appearance, calls, silhouettes and behaviors. Afterwards we will take a trip in the county van so we can test out our skills near some local farms.

This workshop is a great training opportunity if you are interested in helping with the Calvert Stewards Winter Raptor Road Surveys Project.

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Naturalist in charge: Gene Groshon

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per person for nonmembers

Advanced Reservations are required - Please register by: Tuesday November 10, 2026

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Fall Hike at Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm

When
11/14/2026
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location
Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm
Spaces left
15

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Adults and children of all ages

Fall is a great time to get out for a hike, thanks to cooler temperatures and the changing colors of the leaves. We will take a hike through Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm to talk about the changes of the season as the plants and animals prepare for winter.

Location: Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm

Advanced Reservations are required - Please register by: Tuesday November 10, 2026

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Naturalist in charge: Gene Groshon

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Meteors and Marshmallows Campfire

When
11/14/2026
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location
Kings Landing Park
Spaces left
5

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All ages.

Join us for a magical night under the stars as we look out for the Loenids Meteor Shower to light up the sky.✨ Bring a blanket or camp chairs and find a cozy spot in the open field for the best view. We will have a brief introduction to the night sky and meteor viewing tips, then time to sit back and take in the skyscape. We’ll have a campfire going and marshmallows provided—just bring your sense of wonder.

What to bring: blanket or camp chairs

This is an after-hours event. Participants will receive instructions for accessing the park after hours via email.

This event is weather and sky condition-dependent. Seeing meteor can not be guaranteed. In the event of rain or poor viewing conditions, the event will be canceled.

Location: Kings Landing Park

Naturalist in Charge: Jessy Oberright

Advanced Reservations are required. No walk-ins allowed.

Program Fee:
Free for members.
$8 per family for non-members.

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Beaver Moon Night Hike

When
11/24/2026
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location
Ward Farm Park
Spaces left
8

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Take a peaceful evening hike beneath the glow of the Beaver Moon, a traditional name for November’s full moon tied to the rhythms of the natural world. As twilight fades, enjoy a guided walk through the landscape while learning about moon lore, seasonal changes and nocturnal wildlife. We’ll pause to take in the moonrise and its reflection on the land—an unforgettable moment under the crisp night sky.

Location: Ward Farm Park

Naturalist in charge: Jessy Oberright

Program Fee:

Free for members; $8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Turkey Tales- A.M. Session

When
11/25/2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
9

Register

This program is appropriate for children ages 3-5 with adult.

It's almost Thanksgiving, a time to celebrate family, friends, and turkeys! Learn all about these incredible local birds and make a turkey craft to take home.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Advanced Reservations are required - Please register by: October 24

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Turkey Tales- P.M. Session

When
11/25/2026
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
10

Register

This program is appropriate for children ages 3-5 with adult.

It's almost Thanksgiving, a time to celebrate family, friends and turkeys! Learn all about these incredible local birds and make a turkey craft to take home.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Advanced Reservations are required - Please register by: October 24

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Opt Outside Hike

When
11/27/2026
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
8

Register

For individuals and families with children ages 8 and up.

Celebrate the spirit of Opt Outside with a guided hike at Flag Ponds Nature Park. Explore the layered stories of this landscape, from its geologic past to its present day preservation. It’s the perfect way to get outside and experience the beauty of the season. This approximately 3-mile hike will be moderately strenuous over some steep and uneven terrain. Not stroller friendly, but infants in backpacks are welcome.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Naturalist: Jessy Oberright

Advanced Registration is required.

Program Fee:

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Trails and Tales: November Book Club

When
11/28/2026
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
19

Register

Adults only

Join our monthly hiking book club, Trails and Tales. We will read a new book every month and discuss it while hiking at one of our beautiful Calvert County parks. The hikes are the last Saturday of the month.

Our November book selection will be "Good Soil" by Jeff Chu.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Program Fee:
Free for members
$8 per person for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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The Bayberry Tradition: Candle Making

When
11/28/2026
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
9

Register

This program is appropriate for adults and families with children ages 8 & up. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Homemade bayberry candles have been a holiday tradition since the 17th century and are said to bring good luck, wealth, and prosperity to those who burn them. Together we will learn about and participate in the process of creating candles from the naturally occurring wax of the bayberry bush. One lucky participant will win a 100% bayberry wax candle to take home.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Advanced Reservations are required - Please register by: Nov 27

Program Fee

$5 per family for Society members
$15 per family for nonmembers

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Teen Homeschool Series: Animal Clues, Session 1

When
12/02/2026
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
8

Registration is closed

For students ages 12-16 years old. No parent needed.

This series will focus on animal tracking and learning how to look for clues that animals leave behind. Learn how to identify tracks, scat, bones, feathers, nests, and other signs to uncover which animals have been in the area and what they were doing. Through hands-on activities and real-life examples, you'll sharpen your observation skills and gain a new appreciation for the hidden stories of the natural world.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Naturalist: Kim Curren

Advanced registration is required.

Program Fee:

Members: free

Nonmembers: $8 per teen

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Pinecone Bird Feeders (Session 1)

When
12/08/2026
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Location
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Spaces left
12

Registration is closed

For Ages 3 to 5 years
Adult participation is required

Help feed your backyard birds by creating a pine cone bird feeder. Learn more about the birds you might see in your backyard, how they survive winter and how you can help them.

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Naturalist in charge: Gene Groshon

Reservations are required.

Registration Deadline: Friday, Dec 4

Free for members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Pinecone Bird Feeders (Session 2)

When
12/08/2026
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Spaces left
12

Registration is closed

For Ages 3 to 5 years
Adult participation is required

Help feed your backyard birds by creating a pine cone bird feeder. Learn more about the birds you might see in your backyard, how they survive winter and how you can help them.

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Naturalist in charge: Gene Groshon

Reservations are required.

Registration Deadline: Friday, Dec 4

Free for members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Geminids Meteor Shower Viewing

When
12/12/2026
8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Location
Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm
Spaces left
25

Registration is closed

For individuals and families with children ages 10 years old and up.

The Geminids meteor shower is considered one of the top meteor showers of the year, capable of producing up to 120 meteors per hour. Bring a flashlight and a blanket and we will hike .a quarter mile to a location with dark skies where we can lay out to watch the meteors.

Location: Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm

Naturalist: Gene Groshon

Program Fee:

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Advanced registration is required - Please register by: Wednesday December 9, 2026

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Trails and Tales- December Book Club

When
12/19/2026
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Kings Landing Park
Spaces left
20

Registration is closed

For adults ages 18+ only

Join our monthly hiking book club, Trails and Tales. We will read a new book every month and discuss it while hiking at one of our beautiful Calvert County parks.

Due to the winter holidays, our December hike will be held on the third Saturday instead of the last Saturday of the month. In addition to our normal discussion, we will celebrate the end of 2026 with a look back on all the books we read this year.

Our December selection will be the short story "The Fir Tree" by Hans Christian Andersen. Even if you do not have a chance to finish the story, please join us for discussion.

Location: Kings Landing Park

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Program Fee:
Free for members
$8 per person for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Guided First Day Hike at Flag Ponds Nature Park

When
01/01/2027
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
20

Registration is closed

For individuals and families of all ages. Adults are required to accompany children ages 16 & under.

NOTE: This hike is approximately 2 miles and is not stroller-friendly.

Ring in the new year with a guided hike. A naturalist will share information about the site as the group enjoys being outdoors on the first day of 2027. At the end of our hike we will have the option to walk to the beach to enjoy some extra time outdoors.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Naturalist: Kim Curren

Advanced Registration is required.

Program Fee:

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Guided First Day Hike at Ward Farm Park

When
01/01/2027
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location
Ward Farm Park
Spaces left
10

Registration is closed

For individuals and families of all ages. Adults are required to accompany children ages 16 & under.

NOTE: This hike is approximately 2 miles and is not stroller-friendly.

A First Day Hike for those who like to sleep in! Ring in the new year with a guided hike of Ward Farm Park. A naturalist will share information about the site as the group enjoys being outdoors on the first day of 2027. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome.

Location: Ward Farm Park

Naturalist: Jessy Oberright

Advanced Registration is required.

Program Fee:

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Guided First Day Hike at Gatewood Preserve

When
01/01/2027
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location
Gatewood Preserve
Spaces left
20

Registration is closed

For individuals and families of all ages. Adults are required to accompany children ages 16 & under.

NOTE: This hike is approximately 2 miles and is not stroller-friendly.

Ring in the new year with First Day Sunset hike. A naturalist will share information about the site as the group enjoys being outdoors on the first day of 2027. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome.

We'll end the hike welcoming the first sunset of 2027.

Location: Gatewood Preserve

Naturalist: Karyn Molines

Advanced Registration is required.

Program Fee:

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

Show details

Teen Homeschool Series: Animal Clues, Session 2

When
01/06/2027
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Spaces left
8

Registration is closed

For students ages 12-16 years old. No parent needed.

This series will focus on animal tracking and learning how to look for clues that animals leave behind. Learn how to identify tracks, scat, bones, feathers, nests, and other signs to uncover which animals have been in the area and what they were doing. Through hands-on activities and real-life examples, you'll sharpen your observation skills and gain a new appreciation for the hidden stories of the natural world.

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Naturalist: Gene Groshon

Advanced registration is required.

Program Fee:

Members: free

Nonmembers: $8 per teen

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Animals in Winter

When
01/13/2027
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
15

Registration is closed

For families with children ages 3 to 5. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Let's learn about what animals do in the winter time. Some animals migrate to warmer areas while others hibernate, sleeping the winter months away. We will sing a song, play a game, and go outside to look for signs of animals that are staying awake and looking for food all winter.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Naturalist: Kim Curren

Advanced Registration is required.

Program Fee:

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Teen Birding: Winter Raptor Survey

When
01/18/2027
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, Prince Frederick
Spaces left
6

Registration is closed

For children 12 to 16 years old. Adults not required.

As part of our raptor research, staff are conducting surveys of wintering hawks and falcons to better understand their survivability. Join us as we conduct roadside raptor banding surveys throughout Calvert County to collect more data for this study. We will travel in the county van to various areas.

For more information on the research project: Winter Raptor Research

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Naturalist: Gene Groshon

Advanced registration is required. Registration deadline: Please register by January 14.

Please register each teen separately. When signing up multiple children under the same account please use the 'Add Guest' option to register them.

Program Fee is per child:

Free for Society members
Nonmembers pay $8 per person.

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Trails and Tales - January Book Club

When
01/30/2027
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Spaces left
20

Registration is closed

For adults ages 18 & up

Join our monthly hiking book club, Trails and Tales. We will read a new book every month and discuss it while hiking at one of our beautiful Calvert County parks. Meetings are the last Saturday of the month.

Our January book selection is "An Immense World" by Ed Yong, and we will be hiking at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp in Prince Frederick, MD.

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Advanced Reservations are required - Please register by: Jan 29

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per person for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Teen Homeschool Series: Animal Clues, Session 3

When
02/03/2027
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Kings Landing Park
Spaces left
8

Registration is closed

For students ages 12-16 years old. No parent needed.

This series will focus on animal tracking and learning how to look for clues that animals leave behind. Learn how to identify tracks, scat, bones, feathers, nests, and other signs to uncover which animals have been in the area and what they were doing. Through hands-on activities and real-life examples, you'll sharpen your observation skills and gain a new appreciation for the hidden stories of the natural world.

Location: Kings Landing Park

Naturalist: Jessy Oberright

Advanced registration is required.

Program Fee:

Members: free

Nonmembers: $8 per teen

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Save the Date: 2027 Patuxent River Conference: People and the River

When
02/04/2027
8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Location
Patuxent Research Refuge (National Wildlife Visitor Center)
Spaces left
129
Registered
1 registrant

Register

We are currently accepting Sponsorships and general registration. Details on the agenda will be available in the fall.

Additional Details will be posted here and on http://www.paxcon.org

Location: Patuxent Research Refuge (National Wildlife Visitor Center)
Address: 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop, Laurel, MD 20708
There is limited parking, we encourage carpooling. Please park in the far right of the Visitor Center parking lot.
There is Wifi, but limited data access at the facility. Cell service is limited.

Watch the recordings from the 2020 Pax Con

The Patuxent River, considered “Maryland’s River”, is the longest river entirely in the state of Maryland. Home to over 100 species of fish and a staggering variety of resident and migratory birds, the Patuxent River is a jewel of the Maryland natural world. Archaeological artifacts dating back to 7,200 B.C.E. suggests the River has been an essential lifeline for humans for thousands of years.

The Patuxent River Conference (PAXCON) is the premier forum uniting scientists, environmental educators, natural resource managers, and anyone passionate about the health and future of the Patuxent River. To know and understand the Patuxent River is to take one more step towards its protection.

Join us for a lively and intellectually stimulating day and to network with new and old colleagues!

Consider being a Sponsor of the Conference: With a sponsorship of $100 your organization will receive one complimentary conference registration, your logo on the conference website and materials, as well as being able to share materials with conference attendees.

Registration Fee: (includes lunch)

Sponsors: $100
Registration fee: $45
Student Attendees: TBD
Posters TBD
Committee: $15
Presenters: Free

Presenter Contact Karyn Molines for the registration code, Presenter fees are waived, thanks to generous support from EQR.

Scholarships are available. Contact Karyn Molines for information

To meet our catering deadlines, registration closes on January 29 (11:59 pm). No walk-ins or late registrations will be accepted. To pay by check or purchase order, please register completely and select "Invoice Me" on the payment page. Failure to do so may result in you not being registered for the program.

For agencies that require a W-9 for processing payments: Calvert Nature Society is the Payee: Download the W-9 form for your records.

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Winter Greens

When
02/06/2027
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Gatewood Preserve, Prince Frederick
Spaces left
20

Registration is closed

For adults and children ages 16 and older.

Location: Gatewood Preserve

Naturalist: Karyn Molines

Learn to identify some of our evergreen plants. We’ll explore the meadows and forests in search of the ferns, herbaceous plants and trees that stay green in winter.

Optional but useful to bring: a 10x hand lens, binoculars and field guides.

Wear warm clothes for standing around outside (we won't be moving very fast). Bring a snack or lunch if you think you'll get hungry.

This program is co-sponsored by the Maryland Native Plant Society.

Program Fee: FREE

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Star Party

When
02/12/2027
8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Location
Kings Landing Park

Registration is closed

All ages, families and adults

Prepare to be amazed as we welcome the Southern Maryland Astronomical Society (SMAS) to Kings Landing Park for an evening of public stargazing. SMAS will bring their telescopes and be our guides for this adventure through the night skies.

What to bring: Dress warmly and keep in mind the changeable weather at this time of the year, wear sturdy shoes and a flashlight to walk to and from observation site (<1/4 mile). Feel free to bring your own telescope if desired. PLEASE NOTE: Flashlights must be kept off in the observation area or have red lenses to not interfere with participants' night vision.

This is an after-hours event. An attendant will meet you at the entrance gate to check you in. Participants will park by Wisner Hall (the large building straight ahead as you enter the park) and walk to the observation area near the Equestrian Ring.

This event is weather and sky condition-dependent. In the event that we need to cancel, the rain date will be Saturday, February 13th.

Location: Kings Landing Park

Naturalist in Charge: Jessy Oberright

Free program

This program is open to the public. RESERVATIONS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED.

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Teen Birding: Winter Raptor Survey

When
02/15/2027
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, Prince Frederick
Spaces left
6

Registration is closed

For children 12 to 16 years old. Adults not required.

As part of our raptor research, staff are conducting surveys of wintering hawks and falcons to better understand their survivability. Join us as we conduct roadside raptor banding surveys throughout Calvert County to collect more data for this study. We will travel in the county van to various areas.

For more information on the research project: Winter Raptor Research

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Naturalist: Gene Groshon

Advanced registration is required. Registration deadline: Please register by February 11.

Please register each teen separately. When signing up multiple children under the same account please use the 'Add Guest' option to register them.

Program Fee is per child:

Free for Society members
Nonmembers pay $8 per person.

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

Show details

Trails and Tales - February Book Club

When
02/27/2027
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm
Spaces left
15

Registration is closed

For adults ages 18 & up

Join our monthly hiking book club, Trails and Tales. We will read a new book every month and discuss it while hiking at one of our beautiful Calvert County parks. Meetings are the last Saturday of the month.

Our February book selection is "You are Here: Poetry in the Natural World" by Ada Limon, and we will be hiking at Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm in Prince Frederick, MD. If you do not have a chance to finish the book before our hike, feel free to come anyway and engage in the discussion.

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Location: Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm

Advanced Reservations are required.

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per person for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Owl Pellet Dissection

When
02/27/2027
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
10

Registration is closed

For adults and families with children ages 8 & up. Adults are required to attend with children under the age of 16.

You can learn a lot about an animal by what it eats. Join us as we dissect and identify the contents of Barn Owl pellets. We will learn how owls make pellets and then we will identify the different prey items the owls ate.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Advanced Reservations are required.

Program Fee: Free for members, $8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Maple Magic Celebration - Session A

When
02/28/2027
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Location
Kings Landing Park
Spaces left
25

Registration is closed

For individuals of all ages. Children 17 and under require adult supervision.

Learn the process of tapping Maple trees to collect sap that can be boiled into delicious syrup. Join a hike to our local tapped Maple trees (the sugar bush), watch sap being boiled into syrup, enjoy a toasted marshmallow at the campfire, and participate in some fun activities to learn about this simple and delicious process.

This is a self-guided, open-house style event. Come anytime during the program and navigate your way through the activities in any order. The celebration opens at 1 pm, with guided hikes to the sugar bush at 1:30. All activities take place outside, so dress for the weather.

Location: Kings Landing Park

Naturalist: Jessy Oberright

Advanced registration required. Please register by February 25, 2027.

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

Show details

Maple Magic Celebration - Session B

When
02/28/2027
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Location
Kings Landing Park
Spaces left
25

Registration is closed

For individuals of all ages. Children 17 and under require adult supervision.

Learn the process of tapping Maple trees to collect sap that can be boiled into delicious syrup. Join a hike to our local tapped Maple trees (the sugar bush), watch sap being boiled into syrup, enjoy a toasted marshmallow at the campfire, and participate in some fun activities to learn about this simple and delicious process.

This is a self-guided, open-house style event. Come anytime during the program and navigate your way through the activities in any order. The celebration opens at 2 pm, with guided hikes to the sugar bush at 3:00pm. All activities take place outside, so dress for the weather.

Location: Kings Landing Park

Naturalist: Jessy Oberright

Advanced registration required. Please register by February 25, 2027.

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Spotted Salamander Celebration

When
03/20/2027
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
10

Registration is closed

This program is appropriate for all ages.

Every spring, Spotted Salamanders can be found making their way toward fresh water to mate and lay their eggs. In this program we will learn about the different types of salamanders found in our area, and how hard it is to survive as a salamander making its way from the forest to the swamp. We will end our program with a hike in search of these incredible amphibians.

Please note that this program includes a one mile hike on uneven terrain and is not stroller-friendly.

Naturalist in charge: Kim Curren

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Advanced Reservations are required.

Program Fee

Free for Society members
$8 per family for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

Show details

Trails and Tales- March Book Club

When
03/27/2027
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park
Spaces left
15

Registration is closed

For individuals ages 18 years and older.

Join our monthly hiking book club, Trails and Tales. We will read a new book every month and discuss it while hiking at one of our beautiful Calvert County parks. The hikes are the last Saturday of the month.

Our March book selection is "Nature Obscura: A City's Hidden Natural World" by Kelly Brenner, and we will be hiking at Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park in Dunkirk, Maryland. If you do not have a chance to finish the book before the hike, feel free to come anyway and engage in the discussion.

Location: Ward Farm Recreation and Nature Park (Dunkirk)

Naturalist: Kim Curren

Advanced Registration is required.

Program Fee:
Free for members
$8 per person for nonmembers

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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Teen Homeschool TEMPLATE?

When
12/31/2027
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Spaces left
8

Register

For students ages 12-16 years old. No parent needed.

In this 4-part teen homeschool series, we will explore the Chesapeake Bay and its surrounding beaches through hands-on, outdoor investigation. Each session will take place outside as we hike shoreline trails, examine coastal habitats, and observe seasonal changes in the Bay ecosystem. Together, we’ll identify common plants and animals, investigate water quality and tidal patterns, and build practical field skills while deepening our understanding of this unique estuarine environment.

Because each session builds on the last, participants are expected to attend all four classes.

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

Naturalist: Tania Gale

Advanced registration is required.

Program Fee:

Members: $10 per teen

Nonmembers: $20 per teen

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.

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