Onondaga County Parks
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Event list

Bird Bingo

Bird Bingo

June 13, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Play a round of Bird Bingo (BIRDO) at the feeders in the wildlife viewing room here at Beaver Lake! Test your ID skills and learn about the birds that visit our feeders during the summer. Win a special prize if you can get BIRDO! Meet at the Visitor Center.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
Bird Bingo
Warblers in the Woods

Warblers in the Woods

June 14, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us for a naturalist-guided hike along the Deep Woods Trail to look and listen for some of the wonderful birds that call Beaver Lake's forests home. Binoculars will be available to borrow.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
Warblers in the Woods
Beaver Lake Photography Group

Beaver Lake Photography Group

June 15, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Please note, that the Group will meet on June 15 this month for a Summer Picnic at Beaver Lake.
The Beaver Lake Photography Group is a community of nature lovers dedicated to capturing the beauty, wildlife, and landscapes of Beaver Lake and beyond.
The club typically meets on the 4th Monday of the month from 6 PM to 8 PM, to share phot ...
Beaver Lake Photography Group
Monday Bird Walk

Monday Bird Walk

June 15 thru June 29, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join expert birder Joe Brin for a relaxed stroll in search of spring migrants and summer residents throughout Beaver Lake’s diverse habitats. Whether you’re an experienced birder or new to birding, these walks will be an enjoyable way to start your day. Binoculars are available to borrow.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
Sessio ...
Monday Bird Walk
Tuesday Bird Walk

Tuesday Bird Walk

June 16 thru June 30, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join expert birder Joe Brin for a relaxed stroll in search of spring migrants and summer residents throughout Beaver Lake’s diverse habitats. Whether you’re an experienced birder or new to birding, these walks will be an enjoyable way to start your day. Binoculars are available to borrow.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
Sessio ...
Tuesday Bird Walk
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

June 17 thru August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Low Maintenance Gardening

Low Maintenance Gardening

June 19, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Love gardening, but dislike the maintenance? Join us both in the classroom and in the garden to learn which low-maintenance plants to add to your garden (and which plants to avoid)!
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
REGISTER NOW!
Low Maintenance Gardening
Morning Canoe Tour

Morning Canoe Tour

June 21, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Enjoy an early paddle on the lake with the whole family. We’ll slowly make our way across the lake looking for wildlife such as eagles, herons, and turtles, and then explore active beaver lodges. Canoes are limited to 560 pounds and a maximum of 4 people per canoe.
Registration: $18/Canoe-Member; $20/Canoe-Nonmember; canoe rental included< ...
Morning Canoe Tour
Take a Lichen to It

Take a Lichen to It

June 22, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Ever wonder what that green-grayish, sometimes flakey-looking stuff is that you see on trees and rocks? It’s a lichen! Take a walk with a naturalist to learn about this interesting organism and see it in action.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle).
Take a Lichen to It
Monday Bird Walk

Monday Bird Walk

June 22 thru June 29, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join expert birder Joe Brin for a relaxed stroll in search of spring migrants and summer residents throughout Beaver Lake’s diverse habitats. Whether you’re an experienced birder or new to birding, these walks will be an enjoyable way to start your day. Binoculars are available to borrow.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
Sessio ...
Monday Bird Walk
Tuesday Bird Walk

Tuesday Bird Walk

June 23 thru June 30, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join expert birder Joe Brin for a relaxed stroll in search of spring migrants and summer residents throughout Beaver Lake’s diverse habitats. Whether you’re an experienced birder or new to birding, these walks will be an enjoyable way to start your day. Binoculars are available to borrow.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
Sessio ...
Tuesday Bird Walk
Talkin' Ticks

Talkin' Ticks

June 24, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Gain the knowledge and confidence to enjoy the outdoors safely! Join the CNY Lyme and Tick-Borne Alliance for an informative program on ticks and tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme disease. Learn how to prevent bites, properly check for and remove ticks, and reduce your risk while spending time outside. Bring your questions – we are here to hel ...
Talkin' Ticks
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

June 24 thru August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Sharing Nature with Your Child: How a Seed Grows

Sharing Nature with Your Child: How a Seed Grows

June 25, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Seeds come in all shapes and sizes, but just like people- it’s what inside them that counts! Come explore the wondrous world of seeds and learn how a tiny nut grows into a big, strong tree!
Discover Beaver Lake through the eyes of your pre-schooler! Each session brings a new opportunity for discovery through nature hikes, games, and crafts. ...
Sharing Nature with Your Child: How a Seed Grows
Birding by Boat

Birding by Boat

June 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Let’s paddle the still morning waters of Beaver Lake by kayak as we listen and look for birds! Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and bring plenty of bug spray and sunscreen! Binoculars will be available to borrow. Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for filling out waivers.
Registration: $12/Member; $13/Nonmember; kayak ren ...
Birding by Boat
Friday Evening Wildlife Walks

Friday Evening Wildlife Walks

June 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Like people, wildlife becomes more active on cool summer evenings. We’ll stroll the meadows, forests, and lakeside in search of wildlife such as owl, deer, fox, and osprey.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
Friday Evening Wildlife Walks
Monday Bird Walk

Monday Bird Walk

June 29, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join expert birder Joe Brin for a relaxed stroll in search of spring migrants and summer residents throughout Beaver Lake’s diverse habitats. Whether you’re an experienced birder or new to birding, these walks will be an enjoyable way to start your day. Binoculars are available to borrow.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
Sessio ...
Monday Bird Walk
Tuesday Bird Walk

Tuesday Bird Walk

June 30, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join expert birder Joe Brin for a relaxed stroll in search of spring migrants and summer residents throughout Beaver Lake’s diverse habitats. Whether you’re an experienced birder or new to birding, these walks will be an enjoyable way to start your day. Binoculars are available to borrow.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
Sessio ...
Tuesday Bird Walk
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

July 1 thru August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Campfire Recipes

Campfire Recipes

July 7, Beaver Lake Nature Center
In this program, you’ll learn new recipes and cooking tips to try out on your next camping adventure! We’ll discuss what foods to bring and what to avoid, demonstrate several techniques to make packing your food lighter, and even try out some of the creations over the campfire.
Rain delay info: In the case of heavy rain or any adverse we ...
Campfire Recipes
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

July 8 thru August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Wild Berry Ice Cream Hike (SOLD OUT)

Wild Berry Ice Cream Hike (SOLD OUT)

July 9, Beaver Lake Nature Center
This session is full. Please call the visitor center (315-638-2519) to have your name added to the wait list.
Join a naturalist on a wild raspberry and blackberry ramble. Together we’ll pick the berries, hand churn our own ice cream, and then enjoy a real cool summer treat!
Registration: $6/Child-Member; $7/Child-Nonmember; please re ...
Wild Berry Ice Cream Hike (SOLD OUT)
Blacklighting for Moths

Blacklighting for Moths

July 10, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Enjoy an evening of Lepidopteran fun as we discover what moths and other nocturnal insects come to visit our blacklight! Bring flashlights or headlamps so you can safely make it back to your car after sunset.
Registration: $6/Member; $7/Nonmember; includes park admission
REGISTER NOW!
Blacklighting for Moths
Wild Berry Ice Cream Hike (SOLD OUT)

Wild Berry Ice Cream Hike (SOLD OUT)

July 11, Beaver Lake Nature Center
This session is full. Please call the visitor center (315-638-2519) to have your name added to the wait list.
Join a naturalist on a wild raspberry and blackberry ramble. Together we’ll pick the berries, hand churn our own ice cream, and then enjoy a real cool summer treat!
Registration: $6/Child-Member; $7/Child-Nonmember; please re ...
Wild Berry Ice Cream Hike (SOLD OUT)
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

July 15 thru August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Birding by Boat

Birding by Boat

July 17, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Let’s paddle the still morning waters of Beaver Lake by kayak as we listen and look for birds! Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and bring plenty of bug spray and sunscreen! Binoculars will be available to borrow. Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for filling out waivers.
Registration: $12/Member; $13/Nonmember; kayak ren ...
Birding by Boat
Owl Prowl

Owl Prowl

July 17, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Venture into Beaver Lake’s forest at dusk in search of the elusive owl. On our way we’ll learn about the different types of owls in our area and what makes them such fascinating raptors.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
REGISTER NOW!
Owl Prowl
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

July 22 thru August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Sharing Nature with Your Child: Flutter & Bloom

Sharing Nature with Your Child: Flutter & Bloom

July 23, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Bring your little explorer and discover the colorful world of wildflowers and butterflies! Stroll through Beaver Lake’s native gardens, search for fluttering wings while learning all about these amazing insects!
Discover Beaver Lake through the eyes of your pre-schooler! Each session brings a new opportunity for discovery through nature hik ...
Sharing Nature with Your Child: Flutter & Bloom
Becoming a Monarch Waystation

Becoming a Monarch Waystation

July 24, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Help save monarch butterflies! Join us for this indoor and outdoor program where you’ll learn how to transform your yard into a safe haven for monarchs on their migratory journey.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
REGISTER NOW!
Becoming a Monarch Waystation
Friday Evening Wildlife Walks

Friday Evening Wildlife Walks

July 24, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Like people, wildlife becomes more active on cool summer evenings. We’ll stroll the meadows, forests, and lakeside in search of wildlife such as owl, deer, fox, and osprey.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
Friday Evening Wildlife Walks
Sunset Kayak Tour

Sunset Kayak Tour

July 25, Beaver Lake Nature Center
As the sun sets, tour Beaver Lake with a naturalist. Paddle along the lakeshore in search of wildlife getting ready to turn in and those just waking up! Previous experience with kayaking is recommended.
Registration:$18/Kayak-Member; $20/Kayak-Nonmember; kayak rental included
REGISTER NOW!
Sunset Kayak Tour
Beaver Lake Photography Group

Beaver Lake Photography Group

July 27, Beaver Lake Nature Center
The Beaver Lake Photography Group is a community of nature lovers dedicated to capturing the beauty, wildlife, and landscapes of Beaver Lake and beyond.
The club meets on the 4th Monday of the month from 6 PM to 8 PM, to share photos, learn new skills, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow photographers. Meetings often include educational pres ...
Beaver Lake Photography Group
Trail Cam Demo

Trail Cam Demo

July 28, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Over the years, we have collected dozens of wildlife videos from our trail camera. Come learn how to ID animals from video and take a look at the animals we have documented. This program will start with a presentation inside, and end with a short hike outside to set up the camera.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle).
Trail Cam Demo
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

July 29 thru August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Birding by Boat

Birding by Boat

July 31, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Let’s paddle the still morning waters of Beaver Lake by kayak as we listen and look for birds! Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and bring plenty of bug spray and sunscreen! Binoculars will be available to borrow. Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for filling out waivers.
Registration: $12/Member; $13/Nonmember; kayak ren ...
Birding by Boat
Friday Evening Wildlife Walks

Friday Evening Wildlife Walks

July 31, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Like people, wildlife becomes more active on cool summer evenings. We’ll stroll the meadows, forests, and lakeside in search of wildlife such as owl, deer, fox, and osprey.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
Friday Evening Wildlife Walks
Pitfall Traps for Bugs

Pitfall Traps for Bugs

August 4, Beaver Lake Nature Center
A pitfall trap is a cup partially buried in the ground that is used to collect little critters that are active on the forest floor. As a group, we’ll carefully uncover the traps and try to identify the invertebrates inside of them. Everyone will get a bingo board of potential pitfall findings to see if we can find enough bugs to make BINGO!
...
Pitfall Traps for Bugs
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

August 5 thru August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Birding by Boat

Birding by Boat

August 7, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Let’s paddle the still morning waters of Beaver Lake by kayak as we listen and look for birds! Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and bring plenty of bug spray and sunscreen! Binoculars will be available to borrow. Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for filling out waivers.
Registration: $12/Member; $13/Nonmember; kayak ren ...
Birding by Boat
Friday Evening Wildlife Walks

Friday Evening Wildlife Walks

August 7, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Like people, wildlife becomes more active on cool summer evenings. We’ll stroll the meadows, forests, and lakeside in search of wildlife such as owl, deer, fox, and osprey.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
Friday Evening Wildlife Walks
Sunset Canoe Tour

Sunset Canoe Tour

August 8, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us for a naturalist-guided tour after hours. Sunset on Beaver Lake is a special time as many animals such as herons, ospreys, and even beavers are active. Canoes are limited to 560 pounds maximum of 4 people per canoe.
Registration: $18/Canoe-Member; $20/Canoe-Nonmember; canoe rental included
REGISTER NOW!
Sunset Canoe Tour
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

August 12 thru August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Owl Prowl

Owl Prowl

August 14, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Venture into Beaver Lake’s forest at dusk in search of the elusive owl. On our way we’ll learn about the different types of owls in our area and what makes them such fascinating raptors.
Registration: $2/Member; $3/Nonmember
REGISTER NOW!
Owl Prowl
Reptile Ramble

Reptile Ramble

August 17, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us for a hike to try to spot some of the reptiles that live here at Beaver Lake. Along the way we’ll discuss some of the critters we hope to see.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle).
Reptile Ramble
The Fish of Beaver Lake

The Fish of Beaver Lake

August 18, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Have you ever wondered what fish species live in Beaver Lake? During this indoor presentation, we’ll discuss over 15 different species that reside in the lake. Please remember and respect that fishing is prohibited at Beaver Lake.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
The Fish of Beaver Lake
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

August 19 thru August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Sharing Nature with Your Child

Sharing Nature with Your Child

August 20, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Discover Beaver Lake through the eyes of your pre-schooler! Each session brings a new opportunity for discovery through nature hikes, games, and crafts. Children ages 3-5 years old, accompanied by an adult.
Registration: $6/Child-Member; $7/Child-Nonmember
REGISTER NOW!
Sharing Nature with Your Child
Friday Evening Wildlife Walks

Friday Evening Wildlife Walks

August 21, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Like people, wildlife becomes more active on cool summer evenings. We’ll stroll the meadows, forests, and lakeside in search of wildlife such as owl, deer, fox, and osprey.
Free with Park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.
Friday Evening Wildlife Walks
Invasive Plant Pull

Invasive Plant Pull

August 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us every Wednesday morning this summer as we work together to remove invasive species. No experience is needed—just a willingness to lend a hand and get in the weeds with us! For the next few weeks we'll be working on pulling Garlic Mustard.
We recommend wearing long pants, sturdy gloves, and tick and mosquito protection.
Volunte ...
Invasive Plant Pull
Golden Harvest Festival

Golden Harvest Festival

September 12 thru September 13, Beaver Lake Nature Center
September 12 & 13, 2026 | 10 AM to 5 PMJoin us for our 48th year!
Enjoy a cherished Central New York tradition - Golden Harvest Festival. For over 40 years, this old-fashioned, country fair-style event has something for everyone! The Festival features live music and entertainment on three stages, nature games and crafts, great shopping with l ...
Golden Harvest Festival
Golden Harvest Festival

Golden Harvest Festival

September 13, Beaver Lake Nature Center
September 12 & 13, 2026 | 10 AM to 5 PMJoin us for our 48th year!
Enjoy a cherished Central New York tradition - Golden Harvest Festival. For over 40 years, this old-fashioned, country fair-style event has something for everyone! The Festival features live music and entertainment on three stages, nature games and crafts, great shopping with l ...
Golden Harvest Festival
Free Canoe Day Sponsored by Oswego Health

Free Canoe Day Sponsored by Oswego Health

September 26, Beaver Lake Nature Center
Join us as we wrap up our summer season with a Free Canoe Day on Beaver Lake. This is the last Saturday to enjoy a paddle on the lake and thanks to Oswego Health, the fee for canoe rentals is waived all day long!
MORE INFO:
Canoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis from 9 AM to 3:30 PM, for one hour blocks. All boats mus ...
Free Canoe Day Sponsored by Oswego Health