Watoga Naturalist Activities — 4th of July Weekend, 2021

Happy 4th of July from Watoga State Park. We have some phenomenal Watoga naturalist activities during the 4th of July weekend for all ages to enjoy. For more information, please contact the office at (304) 799-4087 or email Naturalist Kayla Bowyer at kayla.r.bowyer at wv.gov. The following schedule is just for July 2 through July 4. We’ll be releasing a full slate of programs and activities soon.

A nice summer day greets a young visitor as he slides down the slide. Youngsters always list the pool in their Top 10. The swimming pool is a popular spot on the 4th of July at Watoga. Photo by Stanley Clark©.
The swimming pool is a popular spot on the 4th of July at Watoga. Photo by Stanley Clark©.

Friday, July 2nd

Beautiful Birds-11 a.m.

Meet Naturalist Kayla at the boat dock for a birding walk around the lake. Bring your own binoculars or some will be provided.

Butterflies and Moths-2 p.m.

Stop by the Nature Center to learn about the differences between butterflies and moths and the species that call Watoga home! Take home a butterfly craft and coloring sheets as part of a memorable 4th of July!

Creek Crawl-3:30 p.m.

Join Naturalist Kayla at the Nature Center to learn about the critters that call our creeks home. Get wet and catch amazing creek creatures.

Saturday, July 3rd

Lend a Helping Hand-10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Learn about several worthwhile endeavors and projects underway by the volunteers of the Watoga State Park Foundation. These “Helping Hands” have a special 4th of July surprise in store for you.

Roving Ranger-1 p.m.-3 p.m.

Find Naturalist Kayla floating around the office and CCC museum. Feel free to ask her questions about the park, programs, and critters that call Watoga home.

Follow the Dragon’s Tail-4 p.m.

Join Naturalist Kayla for a hike along Dragon Draft Trail through Brooks Arboretum. We will cross multiple creeks with moderate to difficult terrain. Wear closed toed shoes, bring water, and walking sticks are highly recommended. You won’t be disappointed as this is one our favorite Watoga naturalist activities.

Starry Night Stories-8 p.m.

Join the Watoga State Park Foundation behind the Riverside campground check-in station to honor the age-old tradition of telling stories under the stars. Enjoy both the beauty of the night sky and the entertaining tails woven by our story tellers.

Sunday, 4th of July

Slimy Crafts -11 a.m.

Stop by the picnic tables near the swimming pool to make Americana slime. All ages are welcome to come and create glittering slimes.

Corn Hole Games-1 p.m.

Join us for corn hole fun and games. No entry fee. Bring the whole family. Meet at the playground by the pool.

T-Shirt Tie Dye-3 p.m.

Join us to create your very own tie dye t-shirt. We have onesies, ladies t-shirts, children’s, and adult t-shirts. Sizes range from youth medium to adult 3XL (numbers may be limited). Please purchase your shirt in the gift shop before coming to the swimming pool, near the picnic tables.

We’re looking forward to seeing you at our Watoga Naturalist Activities from July 2 through July 4. Happy 4th of July from Watoga State Park and the Watoga State Park Foundation.