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Girl Scouts Love Indiana State Parks
When: September 13 & 14
Explore local state parks during this year’s Girls Scouts Love State Parks Weekend! On September 13 and 14, you can participate in self-guided tours, family hikes, watersports, stargazing, and more, all while fostering a clean environment for everyone to enjoy with Pick Up America.
Local Offerings 
1. Versailles State Park | Trail Trekkers: Backpack Adventure | Sept. 13 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Get ready for a wild and wonderful day of exploration at Versailles State Park! Join us for a guided hike where Girl Scouts will strap on backpacks and dive into the exciting world of outdoor discovery.
With the help of tools like binoculars, journals, magnifying glasses, compasses , and park maps , girls will learn how to explore like real naturalists. Along the way, they'll get a hands-on intro to:
• Tree Identification
• Wildflower Spotting
• Small Mammal Identification
After the hike, all age levels will come together for a classic Girl Scout campfire sing-along , complete with s'mores and a special Feeding Friendzy with the turtles at the Nature Center!
2. Versailles State Park | Junior Wildlife Explorers | Sept. 13 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Junior Girl Scouts will kick off their adventure with a wildlife scavenger hunt at the Nature Center, focusing on insect and animal identification using field guides and observation tools. Then, they'll head out on a guided hike through the park to discover native species and natural habitats up close.
After their exploration, Juniors will join Girl Scouts of all ages for a campfire sing-along, gooey s'mores, and a special Feeding Friendzy with the turtles-a fun and educational wildlife experience!
3. Versailles State Park | Campfire Skills & Turtle Time-CSA | Sept 13 | 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Get ready to spark confidence and outdoor know-how! CSA-level Girl Scouts will head to the Nature Center for a hands-on session in campfire building and fire safety. Scouts will learn how to safely build and manage a fire, including types of fire lays, fire-starting materials, and Leave No Trace practices.
After mastering their campfire skills, girls will join Scouts of all levels for a joyful campfire sing-along, tasty s'mores, and a special Feeding Friendzy with the turtles to close out the day with nature, fun, and sisterhood!
4. Versailles State Park | Explore at Your Own Pace | Sept 14 | 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Looking for a flexible outdoor adventure? Girl Scouts of all levels are invited to visit Versailles State Park any time throughout the day for a self-guided hike and nature scavenger hunt designed just for them!
Scouts will use their observation skills to explore the park's trails, search for wildlife, plants, and natural wonders, and complete fun nature challenges along the way.
5. Spring Mill State Park | Likeside Hike | Sept 13 | 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Some of the most unique animals call the water's edge home-come discover them with us! Join Girl Scouts for a 1-mile moderate hike along Trail 5 as we explore the vibrant life along the shore of Spring Mill Lake. We'll keep an eye out for birds, fish, and other fascinating creatures that thrive in this special habitat.
6. Spring Mill State Park | Do a Good Turn | Sept 13 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Take action and give back to the great outdoors! Girl Scouts are invited to show their care for the environment by participating in a meaningful day of service at Spring Mill State Park.
Stop by the Lakeview Activity Center to meet with the park naturalist and pick up your volunteer assignment. A variety of projects will be available to match different interests and skill levels-from trail tidying to nature center help and more. Some assignments may require driving to different areas of the park, so come prepared for light travel and outdoor work.
7. Spring Mill State Park | Sept. 13 | 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Discover the wild flavors of nature! Join us for Food in the Forest, an interactive presentation where Girl Scouts will learn to identify easily recognizable and safe-to-forage foods found in Indiana's natural landscapes.
Led by a knowledgeable naturalist, this session will highlight local edible plants, responsible foraging practices, and how early settlers and Native peoples used nature as their grocery store.
8. Spring Mill State Park | Cool Cool Coloring-Spring Mill State Park | Sept. 13 | 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Beat the afternoon heat and tap into your creative side! Drop by the Lakeview Activity Center to draw, paint, or color a picture inspired by your time in Indiana State Parks. Whether it's a towering tree, a curious critter, or your favorite trail-let your outdoor experience come to life through art!
9. Spring Mill State Park | Campfire Basics-Springmill State Parks | Sept. 13 | 6 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Ready to master one of the most classic outdoor skills? Join the Naturalist at the campground amphitheater for a hands-on lesson in campfire building! Girl Scouts will learn the basics of fire safety, how to choose the right materials, and the steps to building and starting their own safe and successful campfire.
10. Spring Mill State Park | Stars Without Number-Springmill State Park | Sept. 13 | 8 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Join the Naturalist at Sycamore Shelter for a magical evening under the night sky! As the stars begin to shine, we'll look up-just as people have for generations-and explore the myths, legends, and stories hidden in the constellations.
Girl Scouts will learn to identify key stars and constellations while discovering how cultures throughout history have made meaning from the stars above.
11. Spring Mill State Park | Bug Catching Contest | Sept. 14 | 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Get your nets ready and your eyes peeled-it's time for the Bug Catching Contest! Join us at the Lakeview Activity Center for a fast-paced, bug-hunting challenge where Girl Scouts will search high and low to find the most interesting insects in the park.
🏆 Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place based on:
* Size
* Rarity
* Difficulty of catch
* Uniqueness
* Presentation
Nets and bug cans will be provided while supplies last-bring your own if you have them.
12. Spring Mill State Park | Grissom Memorial Guided Tour | Sept. 14 | 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Join us for a special Girl Scout program as we learn about a man bound for the Moon and explore the legacy of space exploration! During this exclusive session, you'll get a rare look at space artifacts not normally on public display, while discovering the inspiring story of one of the trailblazers in American space history.
13. Prophetstown State Park | Prophetstown Bike Trail and Discovery Day | Sept. 13 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Join us for a special Girl Scout program as we learn about a man bound for the Moon and explore the legacy of space exploration! During this exclusive session, you'll get a rare look at space artifacts not normally on public display, while discovering the inspiring story of one of the trailblazers in American space history.
14. Prophetstown State Park | Prophetstown Wander & Wonder | Sept. 13 - 14
Spend a day exploring at your own pace with a self-guided adventure designed for Girl Scout troops and families. Learn about the prairie landscape, native wildlife, and the cultural history of the land as you hike, bike, and explore the park's scenic trails. Follow the activity checklist to guide your journey- there's something for everyone to enjoy! Pack a picnic, wear comfy shoes, and get ready for a fun day outdoors.
15. Mounds State Park | Mounds Wander & Wonder | Sept. 13 - 14
Explore ancient history and natural beauty at your own pace with a self-guided adventure perfect for Girl Scout troops and families. Discover the park's unique earthworks, hike scenic trails, and learn about Indiana's rich cultural and natural heritage. Follow the activity checklist to guide your journey- there's plenty to see and do! Pack a picnic, wear comfy shoes, and get ready for a fun day outdoors.
16. Mounds State Park | Mounds Trail and Discovery Day | Sept. 14 | 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Celebrate Girl Scouts Love State Parks Weekend with a day of exploration and learning at Mounds State Park! Girl Scouts will hike the scenic trails and uncover the natural and cultural history of this unique park- home to ancient earthworks. Along the way, enjoy hands-on discovery activities that highlight the park's wildlife, land, and habitats. It's a fun and active way to learn something new and celebrate the outdoors with fellow Girl Scouts!
17. Mounds State Park | Mounds Nature Journaling Workshop | Sept. 14 | 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Join James Todd, Indiana Master Naturalist, & Nature Journaling Educator, for a 3-hour immersion into what nature journaling is and how to do it, while enjoying the process and health benefits. There will be a 40-minute class followed by an outdoor session using your journal. Journal and Girl Scouts Love State Parks patch included. Gate Fees Apply At Entry.
18. Brown County State Park | Live Raptor Show | Sept. 13 | 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Join the Indiana Raptor Center for an exciting evening with some of Indiana's predatory birds! See multiple live raptors, hear what threats they face, and learn about how you can help and appreciate these incredible animals!
Please be aware the program involves live animals. The presenters move about the crowd with a bird on hand for close up looks. If you bring a pet, please be aware the presenter will not approach you.
Lawn chairs are recommended.
19. McCormick's Creek State Park | Amphibians & Reptiles | Sept. 13 | 11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Meet our residential amphibians and reptiles during this live animal show. Slither on over to the Amphitheater by the Inn to see how they have adapted to live at McCormick`s Creek. Girls will receive their Girl Scouts Love State Parks patch!
20. McCormick's Creek State Park | What's Under That Rock Hike | Sept. 13 | 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Animals like to hide in interesting places. Join Park Naturalist on a hike down to the Waterfall to see these hidden worlds. We will be flipping rocks and catching aquatic animals with nets. This hike includes staircase and slippery rocks we must navigate on. Meet at the Canyon Inn Lawn with water shoes or closed toed shoes on that you don't mind getting wet. Girls will receive their Girl Scouts Love State Parks patch!
21. Brown County State Park | Explore the Discovery Trail – A Self-Guided Adventure | Sept. 13 | 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Set out on your own to explore the Discovery Trail at Brown County State Park! This 0.5-mile loop offers a moderate hike with muddy spots, uneven terrain, and gentle slopes-perfect for curious explorers ready to learn and move at their own pace.
22. Shakamak State Park | Explore at your own Pace | Sept. 13 | 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Celebrate Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend with a day of self-paced outdoor adventure at beautiful Shakamak State Park! Girl Scouts and their families are invited to explore the park on their own schedule while completing fun nature-based activities and earning their exclusive Girl Scouts Love State Parks patch.
23. Spring Mill State Park | Explore Spring Mill Your Way! | Sept. 13 | 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Celebrate the great outdoors with a day of adventure at Spring Mill State Park! During Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend, Girl Scouts and their families are invited to explore the park at their own pace.
24. Shakamak State Park | Explore at your own Pace | Sept. 14 | 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Celebrate Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend with a day of self-paced outdoor adventure at beautiful Shakamak State Park! Girl Scouts and their families are invited to explore the park on their own schedule while completing fun nature-based activities and earning their exclusive Girl Scouts Love State Parks patch.
25. Brown County State Park | Explore the Discovery Trail – A Self-Guided Adventure | Sept. 14 | 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Set out on your own to explore the Discovery Trail at Brown County State Park! This 0.5-mile loop offers a moderate hike with muddy spots, uneven terrain, and gentle slopes-perfect for curious explorers ready to learn and move at their own pace.
26. Brown County State Park | Explore the Discovery Trail – A Self-Guided Adventure | Sept. 14 | 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Set out on your own to explore the Discovery Trail at Brown County State Park! This 0.5-mile loop offers a moderate hike with muddy spots, uneven terrain, and gentle slopes-perfect for curious explorers ready to learn and move at their own pace.
27. Spring Mill State Park | Explore Spring Mill Your Way! | Sept. 14 | 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Celebrate the great outdoors with a day of adventure at Spring Mill State Park! During Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend, Girl Scouts and their families are invited to explore the park at their own pace.
Get your Passport Activity Sheet and Patch!
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Use the interactive map below to virtually visit state parks around the country.
