If you’re looking to get to the park this weekend, consider adding stargazing, pond exploration, and composting to your list of things to do.
Frog Walk
Friday, 7-8 p.m.
Head over to the pond for a night of serenading amphibians. As they make their voices heard, a ranger will help you catch a few to get an up close look at the frogs. Lake Anna State Park: 6800 Lawyers Rd., Spotsylvania; free
Backyard Composting Basics
Saturday, 10 a.m.
Looking to reduce your waste and make your house more green? Cconsider taking up composting. Visit Green Spring Gardens to learn the basics of composting, including the different methods, materials to use, critter control, and more. Green Spring Gardens: 4603 Green Spring Rd., Alexandria; $18
Just Wing It
Saturday, 1-2 p.m.
You’ve probably seen some magnificent butterflies throughout your yard, but do you know where those stunning colors come from? If not, now is your chance to learn. See how those patterns and bright wings help them hide, communicate, and deter predators while out in the wild. Mason Neck State Park: 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton; free
Stargazing at Widewater!
Saturday, 8:30-11:30 p.m.
Break out the telescope for a night under the stars. Join the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club to get the best views of the planets, stars, and nebulae hiding in the sky. Widewater State Park: 101 Widewater State Park Rd., Stafford; free
Pond Play
Sunday, 2-3 p.m.
It’s not just fish living in those ponds. Spend the afternoon exploring the different organisms that call the pond home. Plus, after you identify the different organisms, join the rangers to feed the resident fish and turtle before calling it a day. Leesylvania State Park: 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge; free
Feature image, © zilber42/stock.adobe.com
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