Paris Landing State Park has a pair of fun events planned for outdoors enthusiasts for Labor Day weekend.
Getting off to an early start for the weekend will be an Owl Prowl Night Hike with a Ranger on Thursday night.
Participants can take part for $1. They should meet at 8 p.m. Thursday at the Nature Center parking lot at PLSP.
Park Ranger Regina Lowry will lead an easy night hike on the Raptor Ridge Trail, all the while trying to call in wild owls.
Hikers can learn all about the nocturnal wildlife right there at the park.
It’s a short hike along the trail and should last about an hour and 45 minutes. Hikers should wear appropriate clothing for the weather and closed-toed shoes that are comfortable for walking.
It’s also recommended to bring a headlamp or flashlight. The park will have some flashlights available as needed.
Registration is required. Contact 731-641-4465 for more information.
The following day, Friday, Lowry will lead an event in which viewers can see the new aviary location.
At 8 a.m. Friday, participants can meet at the Nature Center and join Lowry in routing a trail that will lead from the Nature Center to the new aviary spot.
The new location will provide Education Raptors at the park an improved environment.
The park will supply all trail tools and gloves. Remember to wear appropriate clothing and bring water, bug spray and sunscreen.
TN Promise students can get community service hours for this volunteer event.
NATIONAL PUBLIC LANDS DAY
Later in September, the park will take part in National Public Lands Day Sept. 15-17.
The event will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. those days. Volunteers should meet at 1145 Girl Scout Camp Road in Springville.
A trail cleanup and re-route at the former Camp Hazlewood is on the schedule.
The park will supply all tools and gloves for the cleanup and re-route.
Participants may choose to volunteer on Sept. 15, 16 or 17, or all of those dates.
Remember to bring water, snacks and bug spray.
CAMPING FOR BEGINNERS
Folks who have an interest in learning how to camp have a chance to sign up for a Camping 101 class for adults ages 18 and older.
The night-time class will last from midnight to 11 a.m. Oct. 20-21. The cost is $50 a person and $95 for two people.
Bring your favorite person and experience the great outdoors with a Park Ranger overnight. If you have never camped, this event is especially for you. If you have some experience camping, you’re also welcome to join the fun.
Lowry will oversee the class, which includes information about campsite preparations, fires, dutch oven cooking with old-time recipes and new, kayaking, park animals and more.
Some camping supplies are available to use. If you need a tent, let the park officials know when you register. A supply list will be provided when you register.
Remember to wear appropriate clothing and closed-toed shoes since participants will be hiking, kayaking, cooking over the campfire, learning about astronomy and more.
The park will supply snacks and dinner on the first day, and breakfast and snacks on the second day. Bring your own beverages — no alcohol is allowed — but the park will provide water. Kayaks and life jackets are included with the fee. Hammocks or tents may be used for the campout.
There will be restrooms, showers and running water on site.
Class members should meet at the TVA Access Road Group Camp at noon Oct. 20 to choose a campsite and sign in.