Details

Rocking U Riding Stables, at Wranglers Campground is open daily April - October from 9am to 4pm.  Operated by Rocking U, LLC.  For more information or to make a reservation call 270 924-2211.

•  Trail Rides leave on the hour with the exception of 12-1pm

•  Rides are available for up to 15 riders at a time for ages 6 and up

•  Pony rides available for ages 6 and under

•  Riders under 12 must wear helmets, which are provided

•  Long pants and closed toe shoes are recommended

•  Cost is $18 for a 45 minute ride and $30 for a 90 minute ride

•  Rocking U accepts cash or traveler's checks

Golden Pond Planetarium  Open Daily       

Planetarium Show Times: Daily at 10 & 11 am; 12, 1, 2, 3, 4 pm 

Laser Light Music Shows: Fri., Sat., & Tues. at 5:30 & 7pm  and 8pm alternating Sat. nights

Evening Planetarium Shows & Observatory Star Parties: 8pm Sat. Jun 8, 15, & 22; Jul 6 & 20; Aug. 3, 17, & 31  (Star Parties at Observatory are weather dependent.)

Go to www.lbl.org/PLGate.html for show information or call 270-924-2243.

Invited Artist: Newberry & Son’s Chairs, Master Chair Makers - At least 5 generations of Newberry’s have been making chairs in Macon County, TN since the early 1800s www.newberryandsonschairs.com. In 2009, the Newberry family received the Governor’s Arts Award, Tennessee’s highest honor in the arts. Visit Louie (4^th generation) and sons Mark & Terry (5^thgeneration) continue the traditional craft of making quality handmade chairs that will last for generations to come.   *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission.  

This weekend at the Nature Station, learn all about the animals that call rivers and lakes home. Join us for onsite programs, activities, and excursions out on the water.

Ongoing throughout the weekend    Healthy Water Hopscotch - Rivers provide great habitat for a variety of wildlife, but these rivers are easily polluted. If rivers become polluted, then the quality of the habitat declines. Come join us for Healthy Water Hopscotch and learn what you can do to help protect our rivers from pollution.  Free with NS admission.

Throughout the Day    Meet Smokey Bear - Meet Smokey Bear, the official mascot of the US Forest Service, and get some memorable pictures.  Free with NS admission.

11:30am    River Invaders - It’s a bird, it’s a plane – it’s a jumping Asian carp! Join a naturalist to learn all about some of the invasive species that lurk in our rivers and what you can do to help prevent their spread.  Program free with NS admission.

1:30pm    River Tracks - Learn how to identify different wetland animals by tracks they leave behind and make a guide to help you at home.  Program free with NS admission.

3:30pm    King of the Fishermen: The Bald Eagle - Visit with our resident bald eagle and discover why our national symbol is the King...or Queen...of the fishermen.  Program free with NS admission.

 6-8:30pm    Sunset Canoe Trip - Enjoy the beauty of an LBL sunset as we paddle the waters of Lake Barkley. We will search for lakeshore wildlife such as beavers, egrets, and osprey. Beginners are welcome.  $25 per canoe. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

11:30am     Gentle Giants: Alligator Snapping Turtles - Alligator snapping turtles may be the largest freshwater turtles in the world, but they pose a very small threat to humans despite their super strong jaws. Come learn about this mild-mannered creature that inhabits the waters of LBL as we feed our resident snappers a fishy feast.  Program free with NS admission.

1:30pm    River Critters - Have you ever wondered what types of animals you can find near the river? Join a naturalist and explore the world of river wildlife while meeting some of our resident river critters.  Program free with NS admission.

3:30pm    Wetland Snakes - Are all snakes found in the water venomous cottonmouths? Definitely not!  In fact, all snakes can swim, and some non-venomous species such as water snakes spend the majority of their time in or near – you guessed it – water!  Join us for a presentation about the variety of snakes found in wetland ecosystems and meet live examples of these misunderstood creatures.  Program free with NS admission.

6-8:30pm     Family-Oriented Sunset Canoe Trip  - Enjoy the beauty of an LBL sunset as we paddle the waters of Lake Barkley. We will search for lakeshore wildlife such as beavers, egrets, and osprey.  Beginners are welcome.  We will focus on kid-friendly activities to get families into canoeing, wildlife viewing, and the outdoors.  $25 per canoe. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

Please put your answer in the form of a question!  Jeopardy is coming to Nature Station to test your knowledge of everything RIVERS.  Challenge yourself as you work towards Final Jeopardy and win a nature prize at the end.  Program free with NS admission.

Explore the shores of our newest wildlife viewing area within the Northern Nature Watch.  Join a couple of naturalists for a nice afternoon kayak trip around Bobcat Island in search of egrets, osprey, and other wetland wonders.  $20/kayak. Cost does not include same day NS admission. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

Come by the Double Pen House, pick up your scavenger hunt list, and explore The Homeplace to see how many items you can discover.  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission.   

Meet one of Nature Station's resident owls up close and discover what makes these stealthy birds one of nature's most amazing night-time hunters.  Then, make your own paper owl kite that you can fly this summer.  If it's a windy day, you can even try it out right here at Nature Station!  Program free with NS admission.
 

Celebrate the opening of Central Hardwoods Scenic Trail by hiking or biking a short section of the 11 mile path that runs east to west across Land Between The Lakes.   Staff will be available at the Golden Pond Visitor Center to introduce you to all the new trailheads along this route and answer any questions.  Wear comfortable shoes.

For more information about these races, call 800-732-0088 or visit www.kdba.net

TBD - National Trails Volunteer Work Day

Cheep!  Cheep! Early summer is prime time for baby birds! Just right here around Nature Station grounds, we have families of purple martins, bluebirds, and barn swallows raising their young. Join one of our naturalists to learn all about how baby birds grow up in their nests, and then go for a stroll to peek inside a few real nests!  Program free with NS admission.

Join a naturalist as we take a 1/2 mile stroll around the Empire Point fields, forest, and shoreline. We will look for prothonotaries, parulas, pewees, and more. Learn some basic birds and possibly find a few unexpected ones too, all in the beautiful Nature Watch Area of Land Between The Lakes. Free to LBL visitors. Meet at Empire Point parking area, one mile form NS.  Wear comfortable hiking shoes. Binoculars will be provided if you do not have your own.   

Daily Animal Programs- Nature Station offers daily programs providing up-close looks at live native animals on exhibit, including a bald eagle, a bobcat, snakes, and more. You might even be able to see our animals during feeding time! Call 270-924-2299 to find out what time the featured animal program will occur.

“Parade of Raptors” - Daily at 4:30pm (weather permitting), come face to face with a barn owl, barred owl, screech owl, and red-tailed hawk as our staff moves these birds from their outdoor perches to their indoor shelter.

June

• Blue catfish spawn
• Snapping and Box turtles begin laying eggs
• White-tailed deer and elk calves born
• Warm season wildflowers begin to bloom

 July

• Gray squirrel mating season
• Fox squirrels born
• Northern bobwhite quail hatch peaks
• Black racers, king snakes, and black rat snakes lay eggs
• American lotus water lilies bloom at Hematite Lake
• American goldfinches begin building nests

 August

• Cicadas chorus by day, katydids and tree crickets by night
• Gray squirrels born
• Snapping turtles begin to hatch
• Garter snakes and water snakes bear broods
• Hummingbirds feed at cardinal flowers, blazing stars, and trumpet creepers

1850 farm children worked alongside their parents to help raise crops and livestock for the family’s use. Extra crops, animals, and animal products were sold or traded at the local general store. Other farm-made items and chores were traded with neighbors; for example, a widow might trade a pair of hand knitted socks for a rick of firewood.  Just like in 1850, this afternoon children will learn to do 1850 farm chores and earn credits for their hard work. Later, at the end of their visit, children can visit Children’s Day General Store and trade credits for 1850 type goodies. $5/$4. Includes HP admission.  *Ideal for Home Educators.

Click HERE for program flyer!

Feeding the Pigs – Daily at 4pm (weather permitting) enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the hog lot when we feed the pigs their afternoon meal. Pigs were one of the most important animals found on a 1850s farm, learn more about our pigs and how every part of them could be put to use…except the squeal.

Can flowers talk? See for yourself! Learn how to make a Victorian tussie mussie, talking bouquet. Tussie mussies are small bouquets of flowers and herbs that were made and given, like greeting cards, throughout the 19th century. Each flower or herb held a symbolic meaning and, when combined, the bouquet conveyed a special message to the receiver.  Program free with HP admission.

Our coyote puppies are turning 1 year old! Let’s put on a proper celebration for these charismatic canines. How do you throw a birthday party for coyotes? Think birthday cakes made of meat and “Happy Birthday” howled in unison. Plus, see what kinds of “scrumptious” presents our birthday boy and girl will receive. Don’t miss the fun!  Program free with NS admission.

Let’s all get together under the Box Elder tree with a hammer and flowers, leaves, and other plant parts to create a lovely piece of art. *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission.

Did you know red wolves used to roam throughout Kentucky, Tennessee, and most of the Southeast? What happened to them? Visit with our resident red wolves and learn the story of one of the most incredible animals to inhabit the South. We'll also discuss how they slipped to the brink of extinction and their challenging road to recovery.  Program free with NS admission.

Let’s go for a hike on one of our favorite trails! This 1-mile guided hike will take us through the woods, along a lakeshore, and by the edge of a field. As we hike, we will search for signs of wildlife and point out several native trees.  Program free to all Land Between The Lakes visitors. Weather permitting.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! – The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food will be served to the public.

1pm - Nooning – After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Would you like a guided tour of the animal exhibits in our backyard? Let one of our naturalists give you the inside scoop on the stories and habits of our resident wildlife, including the red wolves, owls, and bobcat, just to name a few.   Program free with NS admission.

In honor of National Get Outdoors Day there will be Free Admission to The Homeplace, Woodlands Nature Station, Elk & Bison Prairie, and the 1pm show at Golden Pond Planetarium!

Surprise, gotcha!! Stealthy animals such as bobcats, owls, and wolves sneak up and surprise their prey under the cover of darkness. Unlike ninjas, however, these animals eat the victims of their attacks. Meet a few of "nature’s ninjas" up close and discover the secrets of their wily ways. 

In honor of National Get Outdoors Day there will be Free Admission to Woodlands Nature Station!

Enjoy the beauty of a Land Between The Lakes sunset as we paddle the waters of one of Lake Barkley’s scenic bays. We’ll search for wildlife that visits the lake at twilight such as osprey, herons, beavers, and songbirds. Beginners are welcome!  $25 per canoe. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

The forest provides a rich bounty of food for all kinds of animals, including humans. Join one of our naturalists on a 1-mile guided hike as we point out several easily-identifiable edible plants. We will discuss their value as food for wild animals, as well as their current and historic uses by humans.

In honor of National Get Outdoors Day there will be Free Admission to Woodlands Nature!

Bring your canoe or kayak and help us clean up this wildlife viewing area that is part of the Woodlands Nature Watch Area. This island is near Honker Dam, only accessible by boat in the summer, and is in need of our help. Volunteers need to bring their own kayak or canoe, and a life-jacket. We are also looking for volunteers with flat bottom boats that would be willing to haul trash from the island back to mainland. Pre-registration is required, please call 270-924-2007 or email volunteer@friendsoflbl.org

Come by The Homeplace Double Pen House, pick up your scavenger hunt list, and explore The Homeplace to see how many items you can discover. *Ideal for Home Educators. 

In honor of National Get Outdoors Day there will be Free Admission to The Homeplace!

Starry Nights Evening Planetarium Show - don't be late!  Fee:  $5/$3

EveningStar Party – Golden Pond Observatory Free to LBL Visitors

White Lightning Mountain Bike Race - Call 270-362-2453 or visit www.woodnwave.com

Spring pole type lathes were found regularly in the old-time wood shops. Join us as we “turn” out chair parts and other pieces for furniture.  Program free with HP admission.

Let’s discover the miniature world of butterflies, beetles, and other insects. Using nets, bug boxes, and magnifying glasses, we will explore the backyard gardens in search of these often overlooked creatures.  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with NS admission.

Let’s go for a hike on one of our favorite trails! This 1-mile guided hike will take us through the woods, along a lakeshore, and by the edge of a field. As we hike, we will search for signs of wildlife and point out several native trees.  Program free to LBL visitors. Weather permitting.

See nature come to life in a fun and fantastical puppet show! Our cast of lovable animal characters will engage youngsters in a story about the natural world.  You are sure to smile, laugh, and learn something too!  *Ideal for Home Educators  Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! -- The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food will be served to the public.

1pm - Nooning -- After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Get up close and personal with reptiles and amphibians such as snakes, salamanders, and turtles. We’ll introduce you to several ambassadors from the cold-blooded world as we explore the fascinating ways these slimy and scaly critters survive.  *Ideal for Home Educators   Program free with NS admission.

Celebrating LBL's 50th anniversary.  Preserving local music heritage has long been a part of Land Between The Lakes, from the Devils Elbow’s Fiddler’s Competition and Four Rivers Folk Festival to the Pickin’ Party.  Born of the heartland, raised in the river valleys, old-time country music this weekend will once again echo in the hills and hollows of LBL. For two days, experience the best of old-time music through workshops, jamming sessions and energized performances of folk, string band, old-time fiddle, banjo, and bluegrass music. Bring your banjo, guitar, fiddle, or harmonica and join in on the fun during daily open mic sessions. Throughout the day, stroll through the historic buildings, fields and gardens, and talk with the 1850s farm family as they go about their daily chores. Children’s activities will be provided throughout the weekend. Bring lawn chairs or ground blankets, coolers, and snacks. Festival foods will be available for purchase.

Returning this year, folk singer, fret-less banjo picker, and blues guitar performer, Mark Dvorak, our favorite Homeplace, old-time string band, The Dixie Volunteers, and Common Thread, talented women who come together once a year to perform traditional favorites.

New this year, the Roan Mountain Hilltoppers, a lively, old-time string band influenced by their Appalachian Mountain music heritage; Thomas Maupin, Daniel Rothwell, and Overall Creek band will prove to be crowd pleasers. Buck dancing master, Thomas Maupin is accompanied by his grandson, Daniel Rothwell and Overall Creek; and Phillip Steinmetz and His Sunny Tennesseans, great nephew of Grandpa Jones, perform Grandpa Jones favorites and old time mountain music classics.  We are pleased to have local performer, songwriter, and folklorist, Nathan Blake Lynn to MC this weekend of the best old-time music in the area. 

Click HERE for event schedule.  $7/$5. Includes same day HP admission. For more information, call 931-232-6457.

Join us for a scenic canoe trip on one of Lake Barkley’s bays. As we search for the lake’s wildlife visitors, we will learn more about the conservation stories of some of the wild residents, such as beaver, eagle, osprey, and more. Beginners are welcome!  $25 per canoe. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

Land Between The Lakes 50^th anniversary celebrates the rich history, present day activities, and future plans of this unique area since President John F. Kennedy declared LBL a National Recreation Area on June 16, 1963.  Join us as we honor this occasion at the Golden Pond Visitor Center with cake and debut of the video - Celebrating 50 Years of Innovative Resource Management, Outdoor Recreation, and Environmental Education at Land Between The Lakes.  The video will be shown at 10:30 & 11:30am.

Click HERE for event Flyer

Evening Star Party – Golden Pond Observatory  Free to LBL Visitors

Happy Birthday!! LBL is 50 years old and we are having a party. Join us and our resident animals as we celebrate 50 years of conservation at LBL. There will be puppet shows, special live animal programs, games, crafts, and special visits by the party grand master, "Smokey Bear," throughout the day. Join us for all or any of the day’s programs and activities listed below.  Program will be held rain or shine.  Program free with NS admission

Meet Smokey Bear – Smokey will make scheduled appearances throughout the day.  Bring the kids to meet Smokey and pose for some great pictures.  Free with NS admission.

11:30am - Eagle Encounter  – Ever wanted to meet a live eagle up close and personal!? Come learn all about eagles and their conservation history from special guest Eileen Wicker, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator with Raptor Rehabilitation of Kentucky, who will be presenting a rescued bald eagle.   Free with NS admission.

1pm - “The True Story of the Three Little Pigs!” Puppet Show  –  Do you know the real story of the “Three Little Pigs”? Come to this puppet show to meet Mr. Alexander T. Wolf, who will tell his side of this classic fairy tale. Ideal for Home Educators.  Free with NS admission.

2pm - Eagle Encounter –  Ever wanted to meet a live eagle up close and personal!? Come learn all about eagles and their conservation history from special guest Eileen Wicker, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator with Raptor Rehabilitation of Kentucky, who will be presenting a rescued bald eagle.   Free with NS admission.

3pm - Restoring Our Roots –   Travel back into LBL's history with us to discover an endangered habitat called the "Barrens."  To help us discover this threatened habitat, we will meet some live animals that make the "Barrens" their home, such as barn owl, pine snake, groundhog, turkeys, and more. In the present, you can see some of the restored “Barrens” that the Land Between the Lakes has been returning to its original glory. Ideal for home educators.  Free with NS admission.

6-8:30pm - Conservation Canoe Trip – Join us for a scenic canoe trip on one of Lake Barkley’s bays. As we search for the lake’s wildlife visitors, we will learn more about the conservation stories of some of the wild residents, such as beaver, eagle, osprey and more. Beginners are welcome!  $25 per canoe. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call (270)-924-2020 to reserve your space.

Laser Light Music Shows - 5:30, 7, and 8pm  All seats $7

A hummingbird would not catch a mouse, would it?  Nor would a hawk try to drink nectar from a flower. Find out how bird beaks help their avian owners eat certain foods. You’ll get to take part in a fun activity that explores different bird bills.  *Ideal for Home Educators  Program free with NS admission.

Join us for this tour featuring critters that have journeyed “back from the brink” of extinction, such as the bald eagle, white-tailed deer, red wolves, and more.  Free with NS admission.

What was that?  I’ve never seen that before!   Armadillos, coyotes, and pelicans are becoming more common to LBL. Get the scoop on these and other critters that are “new to the neighborhood”.  Free with NS admission.

Let’s go for a hike on one of our favorite trails! This 1-mile guided hike will take us through the woods, along a lakeshore, and by the edge of a field. As we hike, we will search for signs of wildlife and point out several native trees.  Program free to LBL visitors. Weather permitting.

Rotting meat and road kill might not sound appetizing to you, but the vultures at Nature Station love all kinds of dead stuff, known as carrion. Visit with our resident vultures as we discover the biology and behavior of Mother Nature’s clean-up crew.
Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food will be served to the public.

1pm - Nooning   After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Coyotes and wolves communicate in many different ways.  We will teach you how to understand their language.  Then we’ll have a howlin’ good time as we watch our resident canines in action.  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with NS admission.

Join us on the longest day of the year as we take a scenic canoe trip on Lake Barkley. Come learn about the summer solstice and listen to some folklore about this astronomical event. Beginners are welcome!  $25 per canoe. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space and for meeting location. Weather permitting.

The Homeplace ladies have been to the garden and are busy “puttin” by what they have picked. Join them in the kitchen; they may even share a few tips on how to process and preserve foods the 1850s way.  Program free with HP admission.

LBL hosts the biggest land mammal in the US (bison) and the smallest (pygmy shrew). It has the largest bird (pelican) and the smallest (ruby-throated hummingbird) in Kentucky/Tennessee. Get up close and personal with some of LBL’s monsters and miniatures, such as our giant snapping turtles and our tiny screech owl, when you visit Nature Station.  Program free with NS admission.

Farmers in the 1850s had to use a variety of tools to tend their field crops. Moreover, they had to properly care for those tools to ensure their use year after year. Today at The Homeplace we will discuss these tools, their uses, and their care. *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission.

Hey Kids - Any budding wildlife photographers out there? Join us to learn tips for capturing the wild sights of nature on camera. Once you’ve learned the tricks of the trade, we’ll send you on a scavenger hunt to take photos of your favorite natural wonders in Nature Station backyard. Parents are welcome, but let the kiddos take the pics!  Program free with NS admission. Ideal for children 8-14 years old. Bring your camera or camera phone.

Field work, whether it was in the vegetable garden or tobacco field, was a skill that was essential for children to learn for the crops on the farm to be a success. Participants will get their hands dirty learning some of these skills. A Lets! Move program. *Ideal for Home Educators.  $20. Registration limited. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space. Registration and full deposit required.

Let’s go for a hike on one of our favorite trails! This 1-mile guided hike will take us through the woods, along a lakeshore, and by the edge of a field. As we hike, we will search for signs of wildlife and point out several native trees.   Program free to LBL visitors. Weather permitting.

Copperheads, cottonmouths, and timber rattlesnakes all make their home in LBL. We’ll teach you how to recognize these native venomous snakes and how to share the outdoors safely with them.   Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food will be served to the public.

1pm - Nooning   After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Enjoy face-to-face encounters with the master hunters of the bird world, the raptors! By meeting several species of owls and a hawk, you’ll see first-hand how these birds use stealth, speed, and superior senses to rule the skies.  Program free with NS admission.

Come by the Double Pen House, pick up your scavenger hunt list, and explore The Homeplace to see how many items you can discover. *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission.

Dark fire tobacco was the cash crop for most farmers in the area in 1850. After it’s been fired in the fall, it has to get ready for market. Sign up to learn how to make a hand of tobacco and a twist just like farmers in the 1850s.  $25. Registration limited. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space. Registration and full deposit required.

The International Federation of Competitive Eating, Reptile Chapter, is pleased to announce its first public event!  Watch our distinguished slate of turtle contestants go head to head in a raw fish eat-off.  Will Alligator Snapper Joey Shellnut hold on to the title?  Will Common Snapper Takeru Slow-bayachi make a surprise comeback?  Meet each contestant before the competition and cheer for your favorite as they chow down.   Program free with NS admission.

Did you know that one bat can eat hundreds of mosquitoes in a single night? Discover surprising facts about these beneficial but misunderstood creatures, and learn how to attract them to your yard, during this indoor presentation. We’ll also head out to our bat houses to look and listen for any squeaking bats.  Program free with NS admission.

We all eat, but have you ever wondered what foods may or may not have been available to farm families in 1850? Today we’ll play a fun game of “Did they have that food in 1850?” *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission.

When it comes to our national symbol, bald is beautiful! While visiting with our resident eagle, we will talk about the features and behaviors that make this bird so magnificent. We’ll also discuss why the eagle is an example of a success story for wildlife conservation.  Program free with NS admission.

Did you know red wolves used to roam throughout Kentucky, Tennessee, and most of  Southeast? What happened to them? Visit our resident red wolves and learn about one of the most incredible animals to inhabit the South. We'll also discuss how they slipped to the brink of extinction and their challenging road to recovery.  Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food will be served to the public.

1pm - Nooning   After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

The Bald Eagle has been our symbol for over 200 years, but, was it the best choice? Come visit with several native animals as we investigate our founding fathers’ other choices. We will conclude our program with your vote for the “Best National Symbol Ever”!  Program free with NS admission.

After your July 4th picnics, come help us prepare the perfect picnic for Nature Station “Stars”! Learn about our animals’ favorite foods, how we prepare them, and watch as they gobble down their festive feast!  Program free with NS admission.

Celebrate 4th of July with a scavenger hunt inspired by our nation's flag. Search the Nature Station’s backyard for all things red, white, and blue, and you may just be rewarded with a patriotic prize!  Free with NS admission.

Enjoy an afternoon of holiday fun and entertainment at The Homeplace as we celebrate one of the biggest holidays in the1850’s.  Festivities kick off with a visit from popular Kentucky statesman Henry Clay as he regales us with stories of his adventures as a Kentucky senator, Speaker of the House, Secretary of State and his unsuccessful run for the presidency. Then let the games begin! Play old-time games; enjoy a cool slice of watermelon, cool under the shade of the maple trees while enjoying music and a few tall tales. *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission. A Lets! Move program.  Henry Clay is portrayed by George McGee and program is funded in part by Kentucky Humanities Council and  National Endowment for the Humanities.

Would you like a guided tour of the animal exhibits in our backyard? Let one of our naturalists give you the inside scoop on the stories and habits of our resident wildlife, including the red wolves, owls, and bobcat, just to name a few.  Program free with NS admission.

Enjoy the beauty of an LBL sunset as we paddle the waters of one of Lake Barkley’s scenic bays. We’ll search for wildlife that visits the lake at twilight such as osprey, herons, beavers, and songbirds. Beginners are welcome!  $20 per kayak. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

Invited Artist:  Rhonda Thistlethwaite, Rug Hooker  In the 1850’s, rug hooking was thought of as a ‘country’ craft, something poorer women would do to make rugs that covered cold, unheated floors. Most hooked rugs were made from reused burlap grain sacks, old fabric of any kind, mostly hand-me-down clothes, and a simple metal hook. Many of these humble rugs have survived the years to become treasured folk art pieces. Rhonda Thistlethwaite will demonstrate the art of rug hooking throughout the day; learn how this simple technique can be used today to make treasured heirlooms for tomorrow.  10am - 12pm and  1-4pm  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission.

We all know the turtle can beat the hare, but what if only turtles were racing? Which turtle species would win? Let’s stage an official turtle race and find out! Meet the competitors, learn what makes each turtle different, and vote for the one you think will win.  Program free with NS admission.

For more information, call 800-732-0088 or visit www.kdba.net

What was that noise? What is that smell?! Come find out which curious critters are milling about near your campsite while staying in Land Between The Lakes. The more you know about these animals, the more you’ll realize there is no need to be afraid of your nocturnal neighbors.   Program free with NS admission.

Evening Star Party West Kentucky Amateur Astronomers will help you observe the features of the night sky.  Free to LBL Visitors

Starry Nights Evening Planetarium Show - don't be late!  Fee:  $5/$3

Enjoy the beauty of an LBL sunset as we paddle the waters of one of Lake Barkley’s scenic bays. We’ll search for wildlife that visits the lake at twilight such as osprey, herons, beavers, and songbirds. Beginners are welcome!     $25 per canoe. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

Can you believe we almost had the turkey as our national symbol?  Visit with our charismatic flock of turkeys as we explore their behaviors and characteristics, which earned the appreciation of Benjamin Franklin.  Program free with NS admission.

Come take a walk with the animals of The Homeplace. Enjoy a guided tour and learn about their histories and uses on the farm. The animals you will see are rare or historic breeds not found on many farms today. So comes see some cool animals and learn a little while you’re at it.  A Lets! Move program.  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission

The search to find ‘The Voice” of the Animal Kingdom is on! Join us at Nature Station for our spin-off of the hit TV show, “The Voice.” We will learn about animal communication as we watch different animal voices battle it out for the title of “Best Voice of the Animal Kingdom.” Come help us decide which animal is worthy of this grand title.  Program free with NS admission.

See nature come to life in a fun and fantastical puppet show! Our cast of lovable animal characters will engage youngsters in a story about the natural world.  You are sure to smile, laugh, and learn something too!  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! -The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food served to the public.

 1pm - Nooning - After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Snakes -  they make some people smile and give others the shakes. But how well do you know them beyond their scaly skin? Meet several of our residents up close and become an expert on all things that slither.  Program free with NS admission.

What is indoor entertainment in the 1850s? To explore the history of entertainment you have to separate the variety of games, from the outdoors to in the parlor, a room designated to entertain guests. See you at 1 pm in the parlor for playtime.  Program free with HP admission.

For more information go to:  www.endurance-plus.net/twin-lakes-triathlon.html

Hey kids!  Explore the exciting world of cool & crawly critters with an up-close look at big bugs, slender snakes, terrific turtles, fun fish, and more!  Learn about these unusual and awesome animals from scientists and naturalists who study them.  Special guest Bob Tarter, of Natural History Educational Company of the Midsouth, will return to present several live animal programs throughout the day.  Also, enjoy games, crafts, jokes, visits from costumed critters, and lots of real, live cool and crawly critters to see!  Go home with a new word for these critters - COOL!  A complete schedule will be available by June 10  Program will be held rain or shine.  $5 for adults; $4 for kids ages 5-12; free for ages 4 and under.

Watch a demonstration of how to make dovetail joinery in historic furniture using hand tools.  Program free with HP admission.

One of the ways canines communicate is by howling. Meet two canine species, the red wolf and coyote, and learn about the importance of howling for these social animals. Then, try your hand at howling and see if you can get any of our canines to howl back!  Program free with NS admission.

Kentucky is known as “Wildcat Country” for its awesome UK basketball team, but did you know we have real wildcats, otherwise known as bobcats, roaming our woods? What amazing adaptations do bobcats have and what are your chances of seeing one in the wild? Come learn about these fantastic felines up close, as we feed our resident bobcat her daily meal.  Program free with NS admission.

Toys were usually made by the children who were going to play with them. They used materials that were readily available to them on the farm. Join us and create your own doll out of corn shucks. *Ideal for Home Educators.  $20. Registration limited. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space. Registration and full deposit required.

Turtles are totally fascinating! Come take a look at some of LBL’s more common and unusual “heroes in a half-shell.” We’ll even visit with two of the largest species in this region, the common and alligator snapping turtles, while they feast on fish.  Program free with NS admission.  *Ideal for Home Educatiors

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! – The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food served to the public.

1pm - Nooning – After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Snakes - they make some people smile and give others the shakes. Come learn more about the legless lives of these cold-blooded critters as we meet several live snakes up close.  Program free with NS admission.

For more information call 270-924-2200 or 2201

How could such a small critter have such a complex life? Come see these amazing insects in action as we take a close look inside our working display hive. You will learn about the inner workings of a honeybee hive, what honeybees provide us, and how we can help the rapidly declining wild population of honeybees.   Program free with NS admission.

Bring your little ones for this unique storytime program! Come join us at Nature Station to explore the wonders of the natural world with a fun story and a visit from a wild animal! Program free with NS admission.

The Homeplace ladies have been to the garden and are busy “puttin” by what they have picked. Join them in the kitchen; they may even share a few tips on how to process and preserve foods the 1850s way.  A Lets! Move program.  Program free with HP admission.

Wood spoons were used nearly every day in the 1850s. Enjoy a demonstration of the skills needed to make a wood spoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Check our collection of local fossils such as crinoids, brachiopods, and corals. Learn about how fossils form, how to identify them, and what they tell us about the past as you take part in several hands-on activities that the whole family will enjoy.  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with NS admission.

Join us for this wild program about owls! From their asymmetrical ears to their giant eyeballs, owls are fascinating creatures. Learn about their amazing adaptations as we meet several native owls up close and personal.   Program free with NS admission.

See nature come to life in a fun and fantastical puppet show! Our cast of lovable animal characters will engage youngsters in a story about the natural world.  You are sure to smile, laugh, and learn something too!  *Ideal for Home Educators  Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! – The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food will be served to the public.

1pm - Nooning – After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Let’s provide our resident groundhog with an enrichment activity that allows him to use his senses and search out his meal. While the groundhog is separated, you will get to hide some of his favorite treats throughout his enclosure. Then, watch as the groundhog excitedly rummages around for them.  All the while, we will discuss the natural history of this large rodent.   *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with NS admission.

Enjoy the beauty of a Land Between The Lakes sunset as we paddle the waters of one of Lake Barkley’s scenic bays. We’ll search for wildlife that visits the lake at twilight such as osprey, herons, beavers, and songbirds. Beginners are welcome!  $20 per kayak. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space and for meeting location.

Based upon the popular TV show Iron Chef America, we give you Iron Chef Animal! Come to Nature Station to watch our staff battle it out in our very own "Kitchen Stadium," making scrumptious snacks for our animals. Can the contestants impress the all-animal panel of judges? Who will be declared the winner of Iron Chef Animal?  Program free with NS admission.

Insects caused everything from rashes to epidemics, making living in the 1850s very uncomfortable. A desperate housewife tried many different home remedies to free her home of these unwanted guests; once these tiny animals caused illness in her family, she once again turned to home remedies for a cure. Join in the "fun" as we create concoctions to both prevent and cure insect born summer maladies.   Program free with HP admission.

Join us as we discover how the animals at Nature Station survive our sweltering summers and avoid overheating. With a little help from Nature Station staff, we’ll cool down some animals and give you a bit of a chill during a surprise finale (dress for rain - hee hee!)  Program free with NS admission.

The sewing machine was a new invention in the mid-19th century, so hand sewing was an essential skill to learn. Participants will learn to piece a nine-patch quilt square to take home. Supplies will be provided. *Ideal for Home Educators.  $20. Registration limited. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space. Must be at least 10 years old. Registration and full deposit required.

How has the coyote survived so well in modern times and spread to inhabit every state in the continental US? Learn more about the adaptations of this cunning canine species and meet our resident coyotes as they devour their daily meal. Even try your hand at howling like a coyote and see if our coyotes howl back.  Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! – The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food will be served to the public.

1pm - Nooning – After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Bring your little ones for this unique storytime program! Join us at Nature Station to explore the wonders of the natural world with a fun story and a visit from a wild animal!  Program free with NS admission.

Celebrate the amazing spectacle of these tiny birds. On Friday evening, enjoy dinner in our backyard gardens amongst the hummingbirds. Then, join us for the main festival,  Sat. nd Sun. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Land Between The Lakes, this year’s Hummingbird Festival will include fun programs, exhibits,and activities centered around the history of hummingbirds, as well as the importance of protecting them into the future. See the listings below for more information.   $6 for adults; $4 for kids ages 5-12; Fee for ages 4 and under

Fri., Aug. 2:  6-8pm - Dinner with the Hummingbirds Have you ever dined while surrounded by dozens of hummingbirds? Enjoy a delicious catered meal while you sit outside amongst these feathered wonders, who are relishing in their own tasty meal at our backyard feeders.  Also, see an up-close demonstration of a tiny hummingbird being banded for the purpose of studying and conserving these amazing creatures.   $20 per person. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

Sat., & Sun. Aug. 3 & 4 - 10am-4pm - Hummingbird Festival  If you like hummingbirds, delight in watching more of these flying gems in one place than you can count! This year, we will be focusing on the “Past, Present, and Future” of hummingbirds, as well as other native animals whose natural histories have been discovered through public education. Stop by anytime, as there will be a variety of programs, demonstrations, and activities going on throughout the weekend. Bring the whole family…there will be plenty for kids to do too! Be sure to check online for further updates about the weekend’s schedule of programs and activities. Program will be held rain or shine.

8pm     Evening Planetarium Show - Start the evening with a visit to the stars inside the Golden Pond Planetarium. $3 children / $5 teens and adults

9pm    Star Party  - We’ll open up the observatory to use the large telescope to view the night sky.  Planetarium staff and members of the West KY Amateur Astronomers will help you identify a variety of night sky features.  Star Parties may be of particular interest to anyone getting started in astronomy.  Look for this program throughout the year.  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Free to LBL visitors, weather permitting.

Children in 1850 were expected to help their parents with daily farm chores. But when the work was done, it was time to play. See what types of toys and games children of the 19th century had and play with us.  Program free with HP admission.

For information, call 800-732-0088 or visit www.kdba.net

The cows are in the corn! Learn how farmers used to keep free-ranging livestock out of their fields and gardens by building miniature versions of old-style fences.  Program free with HP admission.

Turtles are totally fascinating! Come take a look at some of LBL’s more common and unusual “heroes in a half-shell.” We’ll even visit with two of the largest species in this region, the common and alligator snapping turtles, as they feast on fish.  Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime:  The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food served to the public.

1pm - Nooning:  After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Have you ever heard that you can get warts from touching a toad or that a turtle can come out of its shell? Come join us to find out if the stories you have heard about reptiles and amphibians are fact or fiction while you meet a few our resident herps up close.  Program free with NS admission.

Dark fire tobacco was the cash crop for most farmers in the area in 1850. After it’s been fired in the fall, it has to get ready for market. Sign up to learn how to make a hand of tobacco and a twist just like farmers in the 1850s.  $25. Registration limited. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space. Registration and full deposit required.

In 1850’s Stewart County, TN, tobacco was king and for most families it represented their main source of income. Learn all about dark fired tobacco, from sowing to firing. If the weather’s right you might even try your hand at finding suckers and worms among the plants.  Program free with HP admission.

Join us on a tour of our resident animals as we discuss where each creature falls in the web of life and who might like to eat whom for dinner (don’t worry – we won’t let that happen!). What makes some of these animals great hunters or on the flip side, prevent them from being hunted?   Program free with NS admission.

Smell, touch, taste, hear, and see nature! Join us as we explore nature with our senses and discover how our senses compare to those of wild animals.  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with NS admission.

In the 1850s, woodworking was a mandatory skill for an average farmer. We will be working on woodworking projects and discussing how these projects will later be used on the farm.  Program free with HP admission.

Participate in the process of turning heavy cream into sweet, delicious butter and, as an added bonus, have a little buttermilk, too. *Ideal for Home Educators.  $20. Registration limited. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space. Registration and full deposit required.

Did you know red wolves used to roam throughout Kentucky, Tennessee, and most of the Southeast? What happened to them? Visit with our resident red wolves and learn the story of one of the most incredible animals to inhabit the South. We'll also discuss how they slipped to the brink of extinction and their challenging road to recovery.  Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! - The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food served to the public.

1pm - Nooning - After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Enjoy face-to-face encounters with the master hunters of the bird world, the raptors! By meeting several species of owls and a hawk, you’ll see first-hand how these birds use stealth, speed, and superior senses to rule the skies.  Program free with NS admission.

Copperheads, cottonmouths, and timber rattlesnakes all make their home in LBL. We’ll teach you how to recognize these native venomous snakes and how to share the outdoors safely with them.   Program free with NS admission.

Today we gather to remember customs of the past. Join us in the parlor for a 1850s wake where we will discuss common mid-19^th century customs dealing with grief, death, and burial.  Program free with HP admission.

If the animals of LBL entered a fashion contest, who would you vote for? Would it be the elk as they show off such resplendent headgear? The monarch butterfly as it flaunts its red and orange coat among the flowers? How about the great horned owl for its powerful yet elegant footwear? Sit back in our theater and enjoy this animal-style fashion contest. Find out why these fashionable features are for more than just beauty. Also, cast your vote for Nature’s Top Model!  Program free with NS admission.

Girls love dolls! Today there will be a demonstration on how to assemble, stuff, and clothe a 1850s rag doll.  Program free with HP admission.

“Wait, was that an armadillo I just saw on the side of the road?” You’re not just seeing things if you’ve caught a glimpse of these odd animals in LBL. In recent decades, armadillos have made their way into our neck of the woods. Since we have armadillos in LBL, learn some fun facts about these unique creatures during a PowerPoint presentation.   Program free with NS admission.

Would you like a guided tour of the animal exhibits in our backyard? Let one of our naturalists give you the inside scoop on the stories and habits of our resident wildlife, including the red wolves, owls, and bobcat, just to name a few.   Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! - The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food served to the public.

1pm -Nooning - After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile, before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

Rotting meat and road kill might not sound appetizing to you, but vultures and coyotes love all kinds of dead stuff, known as carrion. Visit with our resident vultures and coyotes as we discover the biology and behavior of Mother Nature’s clean-up crew.  Program free with NS admission.

Flax has been a very important field crop for thousands of years. It has helped to provide food, oil, cordage, and clothing for people around the world. Today we will be discussing and demonstrating how this plant is transformed into fine linen and rough tow. *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission.

There are over 25 species of snakes in LBL, only four of which are venomous. We’ll teach you how to recognize some common native snakes, including the venomous ones, and how to share the outdoors with these misunderstood creatures.   Program free with NS admission.

How much do you like bugs? Enough to eat?! You may not enjoy eating bugs, but many of our animals love to snack on them. Meet some of the Nature Station’s bug-loving animals like the opossum and turtles as they chow down on their grub. Maybe you’ll even be bold enough to crunch a cricket or two!  Program free with NS admission.

Explore the shore and islands of Lake Barkley as we search for wildlife in the Woodlands Nature Watch Area. We will look for fall & migrating wildlife, seek out hidden historic spots, and admire the beautiful shoreline sights of several bays.  $30/per canoe.  $15/canoe or kayak if you bring your own.  Snacks included.  Lake and weather conditions permitting.  For intermediate to advanced level paddlers.  Space is limited.  Advanced registration required. Call 270-924-2020 to register.

In the 1850s, woodworking was a mandatory skill for an average farmer. We will be working on woodworking projects and discussing how these projects will later be used on the farm.  Program free with HP admission.

PEEE-YEW!!  What’s that smell? Some animals choose to bathe while others just plain stink! Join us at Nature Station to learn about animals that don’t have the best perfumes. You will also meet some live examples!  Program free with NS admission.

It’s time to start harvesting and preparing what has been growing on the farm. Today we will harvest what is in season and participants will have a hands-on experience in preparing food for preserving plus learn other methods of keeping food for later use. *Ideal for Home Educators.  $25. Registration limited. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space. Must be at least 10 years old. Registration and full deposit required.

People aren’t the only ones in LBL who use lures to catch fish. So do alligator snapping turtles! Let’s take an up-close look at our resident snappers and see why they are such good “fishermen.”  Program free with NS admission.

10am-12pm - Dinnertime! – The ladies begin preparing dinner in the early morning hours while the woodstove is heating up. Once the stove is hot, you will smell the food cooking on the stove. At noon the ladies will ring the dinner bell for the gentlemen to come to the Double Pen House for dinner.  Program free with HP admission. No food served to the public.

1pm - Nooning – After dinner, the hottest part of the summer day was ahead of the farm family. For that reason, the family took time for the act of “nooning”, resting through that part of the day. Stop and visit awhile before we head back to our chores in the later part of the afternoon.  Program free with HP admission.

A what? A whistle-pig? First hint: it’s not a pig! Second hint: it can whistle! Third hint: it can make you “chuck-le”! Still not sure? You’ll have to come to this program and meet a real “whistle-pig” to find out what kind of animal it is.  Program free with NS admission.

This Labor Day weekend, The Homeplace is celebrating the hard labor and hand working skills of our ancestors during The Homeplace Trades Fair. At a time when few things were manufactured, people had to rely on their skills or that of their neighbors to produce everything from knitted socks to horseshoes. Visit this weekend with local historical trades and craft people as they share their skills and knowledge of these historic folk art skills. Hand crafted items will be available for purchase. *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission. For more information, call 931-232-6457.

Help us wrap up a fantastic summer with a variety of exciting programs and games!   Enjoy a staff-led canoe trip, attend a puppet show, howl like a wolf, and much more! See the listings below for more information. Program will be held rain or shine.

11am - Hamming it Up with Honeybees!* - Did you know bees can dance? Or that male honeybees do not have any stingers? Step into the world of a family of bees, learn about their life cycle, and see how a beehive works as we play some “buzz-worthy” games. We’ll also take a look at our live honeybee colony and try to spot the Queen!  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with NS admission.

1pm - Howl Your Head Off - Can you howl like a red wolf?  Take part in a friendly competition to see who can best imitate the howl of an endangered red wolf as we learn how wolves communicate.  Prizes will be awarded to all participants, with a special award for the winner!  Program free with NS admission.

3pm - Watermelon Feast - Nothing's better than watermelon on a hot day!  Come chow down, cool down, and try your luck at our annual seed-spitting contest.  Program free with NS admission.

5:30-8:00pm - Sunset Canoe Trip - View LBL's spectacular forest shoreline from a canoe.  As we paddle along a scenic bay we'll look and listen for wildlife that visit the lake at twilight such as osprey, herons, beavers, and songbirds.  The trip will end with the beauty of an LBL sunset.  Beginners are welcome!  $25 per canoe. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call (270)-924-2020 to reserve your space and for meeting location.

8pm     Evening Planetarium Show - Start the evening with a visit to the stars inside the Golden Pond Planetarium. $3 children / $5 teens and adults

9pm    Star Party - Golden Pond Observatory - We’ll open up the observatory to use the large telescope to view the night sky.  Planetarium staff and members of the West KY Amateur Astronomers will help you identify a variety of night sky features.  Star Parties may be of particular interest to anyone getting started in astronomy.  Look for this program throughout the year.  *Ideal for Home Educators.  Free to LBL visitors, weather permitting.

Help us wrap up a fantastic summer with a variety of exciting programs and games!   Enjoy a staff-led canoe trip, attend a puppet show, howl like a wolf, and much more! See the listings below for more information. Program will be held rain or shine.

Appearances Throughout the Day - Meet Smokey Bear – Visit with Smokey the Bear!  Smokey will be making scheduled appearances throughout the day.  Bring the kids to meet Smokey and pose for some great pictures.  Free with NS admission.

1pm - Puppet Playhouse Theatre - See nature come to life in a fun and fantastical puppet show!  Using cute critter puppets we will engage youngsters in a story about our native ecosystems.  Some of nature's coolest critters will be featured in this entertaining puppet show.  Program free with NS admission.

3pm - Insect Olympics - How do your athletic skills compare to those of an insect?  Join us as we play games and run races to learn more about the incredible feats insects are capable of!  Program free with NS admission.

5:30-8:00pm - Sunset Canoe Trip - View LBL's spectacular forest shoreline from a canoe.  As we paddle along a scenic bay we'll look and listen for wildlife that visit the lake at twilight such as osprey, herons, beavers, and songbirds.  The trip will end with the beauty of an LBL sunset.  Beginners are welcome!  $25 per canoe. Cost does not include same day NS admission. NS closes at 5pm. Registration limited. Reservations and full deposits required. Call 270-924-2020 to reserve your space.

Come by the Double Pen House, pick up your scavenger hunt list, and explore The Homeplace to see how many items you can discover. *Ideal for Home Educators.  Program free with HP admission.

Help us wrap up a fantastic summer with a variety of exciting programs and games!   Enjoy a staff-led canoe trip, attend a puppet show, howl like a wolf, and much more! See the listings below for more information. Program will be held rain or shine.

11am - Turtle Races - We all know that the turtle can beat the hare, but what if only turtles were racing?  Which turtle species would win?  Let’s stage an official turtle race and find out!  Meet the competitors, learn what makes each turtle different, and vote for the turtle you think will win!  Program free with NS admission.

1pm - Truly Talon-ted - Enjoy face-to-face encounters with the master hunters of the bird world, the raptors! By meeting several species of owls and a hawk, you’ll see first-hand how these birds use stealth, speed, and superior senses to rule the skies.  Program free with NS admission.

3pm - Wildlife Jeopardy - How much do you know about nature?  Come test your knowledge with the Nature Station's version of America's favorite TV quiz show.  Prizes will be awarded to all participants with a special prize going to the best wildlife whiz!  Program free with NS admission.