Medina County Parks plans packed June schedule

Medina County Parks will offer a wide variety of outdoor programs and family-friendly activities throughout June, ranging from live music and astronomy nights to hiking programs, train rides and nature exploration opportunities. A full list of events, registration details and program updates is available at medinacountyparks.com.

One of the most unique programs returns June 3-5 with Railroad Camp hosted by the Northeastern Ohio Live Steamers at Lester Rail Trail. The camp gives children ages 12-14 hands-on experience with railroad operations, including track construction, installation and the safe operation of electric, diesel and steam locomotives. The week concludes with campers providing train rides for family members. The cost is $45 per camper.

Cyclists can take part in the popular Slo Roll guided bike rides June 4 and 18. The rides, co-sponsored by Bike Medina County and Medina County Park District, feature 8- to 10-mile guided routes through the parks and surrounding communities. Riders must wear helmets, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Photography enthusiasts and nature lovers can visit the Photographers of the Parks Photo Exhibit and Contest running June 6-27 at Oenslager Nature Center. Visitors are invited to view dozens of photographs and help vote for grand prize winners during regular nature center hours.

Outdoor recreation also highlights the month with the “A Healthy Dose of Nature” hiking series June 6 at River Styx Park and June 18 at Holmesbrook Park. The vigorous 3- to 5-mile hikes are designed for participants ages 10 through adult.

Skywatchers can enjoy “Starry, Starry Nights at Letha House” on June 6 from 9-11 p.m. Members of the Cuyahoga Astronomical Association will provide telescopes for viewing planets, deep-space objects and the moon while also helping attendees learn to use their own telescopes.

Music fans can attend several free concerts throughout the month. The Wadsworth Community Band will perform June 7 at Buffalo Creek Retreat, while the “Music at The Lodge” concert series continues June 14 at Allardale Lodge featuring the Morning Star Bluegrass Band performing bluegrass, gospel and Americana music.

Children and families have several opportunities for outdoor learning during June. Adventure Camp, scheduled June 9-11 at multiple park locations, will introduce participants ages 10-14 to fishing, hiking, birding and butterfly-catching activities.

Nature Explorers programs throughout the month will focus on themes including Animal Olympics, pollinators, pond wildlife, forest exploration, creek critters and insect investigations. The drop-off programs are designed for children ages 7-12 and take place at several Medina County parks.

The park district will also host several special educational and hands-on events. “Invasive Species Management at Home” on June 7 at Oenslager Nature Center will teach residents how to identify and remove invasive plants while suggesting native alternatives for landscaping.

The Native Plant Sale and Education Booth on June 13-14 at Chippewa Lake Park will give visitors a chance to shop for native plants, learn about conservation and speak with members of the Chippewa Lake Historical Society about the community’s new museum project.

Families looking for a challenge can participate in the Shotwell Gardens Mystery Quest on June 13, where visitors will search for clues and photograph mysterious objects throughout the park to earn prizes.

Art and mindfulness come together June 13 during “Zentangles in Nature” at Oenslager Nature Center. The program will teach participants how to use repetitive patterns inspired by nature to create meditative artwork.

The popular “Beetle Bonanza” programs will be held June 13-14 and June 20-21 at Susan Hambley Nature Center. Visitors can learn about beetles and their role in the ecosystem through interactive displays and activities.

Another crowd favorite returns June 20 when the Northeastern Ohio Live Steamers host “All Aboard!” at Lester Rail Trail. Families can enjoy free rides on miniature trains operated by members of the railroad club.

Inclusive community programs continue with Walk and Roll events June 12 and 26 at Shotwell Gardens at Lake Medina. Hosted by Integrated Community Solutions, the walks are designed to bring together people of all abilities in a welcoming outdoor environment.

Toward the end of the month, park visitors can join a guided “Searching for Snakes” hike June 28 at Letha House West to learn about local reptiles and their role in the environment.

Nature photography enthusiasts can also attend the Photographers of the Park Club Meeting on June 28 at Oenslager Nature Center to share photography techniques and connect with fellow photographers.

Most programs are free, though some require advance registration. A full schedule of programs, registration information and additional details is available at medinacountyparks.com.