South Mountains State Park Environmental Programs

Saturday, September 3
“Black Bears: Majestic Creatures of the Wild”
How dangerous are black bears?  Can we coexist?  Why are black bears so unique?  What should I do if I see a black bear?  The program will begin at 11:00 am in the Visitor Center.
 
“Birds of Prey”
Join a Park Ranger at the Visitor Center at 2:00 pm and learn about some of the birds of prey found in the South Mountains. You will learn about the distinguishing characteristics of these animals, and find out why they are called birds of prey.
 
Sunday, September 4
“Skulls and Skins”
Look for a Park Ranger and his interesting display of skulls and skins at the Visitor Center.  Drop by between 2:00 –3:00 and hear about some of the animals that call South Mountains State Park home.
 
Saturday, September 10
“Black Bears: Majestic Creatures of the Wild”
How dangerous are black bears?  Can we coexist?  Why are black bears so unique?  What should I do if I see a black bear?  The program will begin at 11:00 am in the Visitor Center.
 

“Tree ID Hike”
Join a Park Ranger for an easy 1.0 mile walk along the Hemlock Nature Trail.  Tree identification will be the focus of this hike which will begin at the Jacob Fork Parking Area at 2:00 pm.
 
Sunday, September 11
“Skulls and Skins”
Look for a Park Ranger and his interesting display of skulls and skins at the Visitor Center.  Drop by between 2:00 –3:00 and hear about some of the animals that call South Mountains State Park home.
 
Saturday, September 17
“Birds of Prey”
Join a Park Ranger at the Visitor Center at 11:00 am and learn about some of the birds of prey found in the South Mountains. You will learn about the distinguishing characteristics of these animals, and find out why they are called birds of prey.
 
“Skulls and Skins”
Look for a Park Ranger and his interesting display of skulls and skins at the Visitor Center.  Drop by between 2:00 –3:00 and hear about some of the animals that call South Mountains State Park home.
 
Sunday, September 18
“The 10 Essentials”
What items should you always carry with you when hiking?  Meet a Park Ranger at the Visitor Center at 2:00 pm to learn about the “10 Essentials”.  
 
Saturday, September 24
“9th Annual Nature Day”
Join us for the 9th Annual Nature Day at the park.  A variety of programs, exhibits, hikes and music are scheduled for your enjoyment.  Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Contact the park office for more information at (828)433-4772.
 
Sunday, September 25
“The Roles and Responsibilities of an NC State Ranger”
What does a Park Ranger do on a day to day basis?  Meet in the Visitor Center auditorium. At 2:00 pm.
 
 South Mountains State Park is located south of Morganton off of old Highway 18.  We welcome the community to join us for our monthly educational interpretive programs.  Call the park office at (828) 433-4772 for more information.

3001 South Mountains Park Ave., Connellys Springs, NC 28612
828-433-4772