NORTH ANDOVER — Harold Parker State Forest and the state Department of Conservation and Recreation, offer the following in-person programs throughout the month of August.
All programs are free and open to the public. Parking fees may apply. Bring water, use sunscreen/bug spray, dress in comfortable layers, and wear sturdy closed-toe shoes. An adult must accompany children.
Inclement weather cancels outdoor programs. Reasonable accommodations upon advance request. Please follow all current COVID-19 guidelines: mass.gov/covid.
For more information on any of these programs call 978-475-7972, email trek.reef@mass.gov, or visit mass.gov/locations/harold-parker-state-forest. Harold Parker State Forest is located at 305 Middleton Road, North Andover, MA 01845. Parking fees apply at the CCC Pavilion, Berry Pond and Jenkins Parking Lots.
We Walk The Woods
Every Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Join the Friends of Harold Parker State Forest and the Park Interpreter for this popular weekly hike. Two hikes available for your pace. For ages six and up. Meeting location varies weekly. Email trek.reef@mass.gov for location.
Three Cheers for the CCC
Friday, August 6, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Stop by Berry Pond and chat with the Park Interpreter to discover the important impact the Civilian Conservation Corps had here at Harold Parker State Forest. For all ages. Meet at Berry Pond Gazebo, 702 Middleton Road, North Andover.
CCC Heritage Hike
Sunday, August 8, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Join the Park Interpreter on this easy to moderate two mile hike and discover the story of the Civilian Conservation Corps along the way. Bring water and a snack. Wear sturdy footwear. For ages six and up. Meet at the Jenkins Parking Lot, 87 Harold Parker Road, Andover.
“Kidleidoscope”
Thursday, August 12, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
This preschool-aged program includes a story and nature exploration. Children will spend the duration of the program outside. The topic varies each week, so come every week! For children ages three to five. Meet at Berry Pond Gazebo, 702 Middleton Road, North Andover.
Creature Feature
Friday, August 13, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Who lives here? Join the Park Interpreter at Berry Pond for a hands-on discovery of the creatures who call our forests and ponds home. For all ages. Meet at Berry Pond Gazebo, 702 Middleton Road, North Andover.
Ponding Adventure
Sunday, August 15, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Join the Park Interpreter at the Park Headquarters for a short hike to Stearns Pond to discover what is living in this aquatic habitat. Nets and buckets are provided. For all ages. Meet at the Park Headquarters, 305 Middleton Road, North Andover.
“Kidleidoscope”
Thursday, August 19, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
This preschool-aged program includes a story and nature exploration. Children will spend the duration of the program outside. The topic varies each week, so come every week! For children ages three to five. Meet at Berry Pond Gazebo, 702 Middleton Road, North Andover.
Three Cheers for the CCC
Friday, August 20, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Stop by Berry Pond and chat with the Park Interpreter to discover the important impact the Civilian Conservation Corps had here at Harold Parker State Forest. For all ages. Meet at Berry Pond Gazebo, 702 Middleton Road, North Andover.
Full Blue Moon Hike
Saturday, August 21, 7 – 9 p.m.
Enjoy the view from Stearns Pond as you learn about the moon cycle and its importance to people over the centuries. The easy walk will be enjoyed by beginners and experienced hikers alike. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear sturdy closed toe shoes and insect repellent. Bring water, flashlights and if you have them, binoculars. Inclement weather cancels the program. Appropriate for all ages. Stroller friendly. Meet at the Park Headquarters, 305 Middleton Road, North Andover.
ExploraFlora
Sunday, August 22, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Join the Park Interpreter at Berry Pond for a short hike and exploration of the trees and plants that grow in our mixed Oak-Hickory Forest! For all ages. Meet at Berry Pond Gazebo, 702 Middleton Road, North Andover
Creature Feature
Friday, August 27, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Who lives here? Join the Park Interpreter at Berry Pond for a hands-on discovery of the creatures who call our forests and ponds home. For all ages. Meet at Berry Pond Gazebo, 702 Middleton Road, North Andover.
Salem Pond Loop Hike
Sunday, August 29, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Join the Park Interpreter on this easy to moderate two mile hike and discover the story of the Civilian Conservation Corps along the way. Bring water and a snack. Wear sturdy footwear. For ages six and up. Meet at the Jenkins Parking Lot, 87 Harold Parker Road, Andover.
