Programs

The Forest and Me Nature Camp Session 3--The Forest Canopy Just Beyond My Reach

The Ford Nature Center is once again offering a three-week camp opportunity for children who will be entering grades 1-6 next school year (2025-2026) or ages 6-12 years old. The goal of this nature camp is to directly address the nature-deficit that so many of our children experience because of too many hours indoors, in front of screens, or in organized social clubs. In each week-long camp, children will be outside for nearly all their days, experiencing the beauty and calming influence that the forest brings. This summer, our nature camp theme is The Forest and Me. Session 3 will focus on 'The Forest Canopy Just Beyond My Reach' and runs from Monday, July 7 - Friday, July 11, from 9:00am-1:00pm at the Ford Nature Center. During this week, campers will learn about the forest canopy - the place where the tree tops touch the sky. We will learn about the birds, bats, flying insects, weather, and the sky. Each day will be filled with hiking, lessons, crafts, and fun activities designed to bring the forest canopy to life. Cost is $125 for five days of camp. Spots are limited; don't delay in registering. A letter with additional information will be sent to you as soon as the paid registration is received. Register/pay by 6/30 online or call 330-740-7107 x 129 for more information. $125 per child.

Summer Trolley Tour

Enjoy Summer in Mill Creek Park with natural and historic views aboard the Cohasset Express. Limited seating. Boards at Ford Nature Center. Register/pay by 7/6, online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. Adults: $10 R, $12 NR; Seniors/Youth: $7 R, $9 NR. Accessibility Notice: The Cohasset Express Trolley is not accessible for individuals using wheelchairs or with certain mobility impairments.

Summer Trolley Tour

Enjoy Summer in Mill Creek Park with natural and historic views aboard the Cohasset Express. Limited seating. Boards at Ford Nature Center. Register/pay by 7/6, online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. Adults: $10 R, $12 NR; Seniors/Youth: $7 R, $9 NR. Accessibility Notice: The Cohasset Express Trolley is not accessible for individuals using wheelchairs or with certain mobility impairments.

Recreational Hike

West Channel and Islands Trail. Meet at the Newport Wetlands Parking Lot. Call Wick Recreation Area for more details.

Coffee Talk & Tour at Lanterman's Mill

Join Mill Manager Eric for an exclusive, private tour of Lanterman's Mill and an exploration into the history of this iconic, beloved Youngstown treasure. The Talk & Tour includes your choice of beverage (coffee, tea, or hot chocolate). Dress for the weather as the mill does not have air conditioning. This program may appeal more to history-minded adults, but older, interested children with an adult may attend. Register/pay by 7/7 online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. No walk-ins. No pets. $10 per person

Rock the Park Trolley - a Geological Exploration of Mill Creek Park PROGRAM FULL

Ever wonder how Mill Creek Park was formed? For much of geologic history, Ohio was underwater and near the equator! Join us on the Cohasset Express Trolley as we travel back over 300 million years and explore the formation of the Park throughout geologic time. Learn about the bedrock of the Park and how the Ice Age shaped the Park that we all love. Where possible, we will hop off to investigate geologic features up close. Trolley boards at Fellows Riverside Gardens. Register/pay by 7/8, online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. Adults: $10 R, $12 NR; Seniors/Youth: $7 R, $ 9 NR. Accessibility Notice: The Cohasset Express Trolley is not accessible for individuals using wheelchairs or with certain mobility impairments.

Ecotour Kayak

Explore the Newport Wetlands like never before! Learn about local flora and fauna on this guided interpretive kayak program. Limited kayaks available to rent or bring your own kayak. Ages 18+. Registration required. Register / pay by 7/9, online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. No walk-ins. No pets. $15 to rent a kayak, $5 to bring your own kayak.

Disc Golf 101

Join us at the MetroParks Farm Disc Golf Course to learn the basic fundamentals needed to understand and play disc golf. Bring your own disc or rent a disc from us for $2.50 per disc. Meeting Dates: 4/4, 5/2, 6/6, 7/11, 8/1, 9/5, 10/3, 11/7 @ 5:00-6:30 PM. Complimentary instruction (for beginners) from 4:30-5:00 PM. Rented discs must be turned in by 6:30 PM. Call Wick Recreation Area for more details.

Fishing at the Farm

Join us at the MetroParks Farm for a fun evening of fishing! Bring your own fishing equipment or use what is available. Meeting Dates: 4/4, 5/2, 6/6, 7/11, 8/1, 9/5, 10/3, 11/7 @ 5:00-6:30 PM. Call Wick Recreation Area for more details. A valid fishing license is required for participants 16+ years old. To purchase a fishing license prior to the program date(s), please visit: https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and apply/hunting-fishing-boating/fishing-resources/fishing-licenses

Wildflower Wander

Explore native wildflowers and other plants with Gary Davenport, an Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist, and a Park Educator on this early evening leisurely hike at the Collier Preserve. Meet at the parking lot located at 2819 W Western Reserve Rd, Canfield, OH 44406. Parking is limited, please carpool if possible. Registration required. There are no restrooms on site. Please register by 7/9 online or call 330.740.7107 ext. 129. No walk-ins. No pets. $3 per person.