Calendar of Events
Many FCPD programs and events are outdoors. Before traveling long distances, especially if severe, dangerous weather is expected, it is recommended you check the event listing on the calendar below or check the event on our Facebook page or call 614 321-4833 ext 103 or 740 652-4422 to confirm an event will take place.
After attending a program, please share your thoughts, send kudos, or give suggestions.
Image is a copy of Mammals of Ohio, page 14, “Southern Flying Squirrel”
The publication is available for download on the Ohio Wildlife Field Guides and Backyard Wildlife page of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website.
Flying Squirrels
Saturday, March 29, 2025
8:00-9:30 p.m.
Mambourg Park
5531 Cincinnati-Zanesville Rd NE (US-22)
Lancaster, OH 43130
Despite being rarely seen, the nocturnal flying squirrel is Ohio’s most common squirrel! Learn about their lives then sneak into the woods with us to try to catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED. To increase odds of seeing these shy animals, attendance is limited. Those who wish to attend must submit an online reservation request form –
3/12/2025 – This session is now full and registration has been turned off.
3/22/2025 – Due to a cancellation, there are 5 (five) openings. When those have been filled, the form will again be disabled.
Where to Meet
Those who receive a confirmation for this program should arrive at the nature center about 10 minutes before the program begins at 8:00 p.m.
Please, do not bring pets to this program.
Receive Updates
To receive updates or reminders about this program, click/tap “Interested” or “Going” on this event on Facebook.
About Mambourg Park
What to Bring
Bring your own drinking water. Potable water is not available at this location.
Trails
Trail conditions will vary based on weather; be prepared with appropriate footwear to hike in muddy or slippery conditions.
- OAK TRAIL (NO PETS on Oak Trail nor inside the nature center)
Oak Trail is about one mile long, includes a set of steps and a footbridge, and may be considered easy-to-moderate. Pets are not allowed on Oak Trail nor inside Mambourg Nature Center.
. - HICKORY TRAIL (PETS WELCOME)
Hickory Trail is about one-and-a-half miles long, includes a footbridge, and may be considered easy-to-moderate. Pets are welcome on Hickory Trail. They must be under control at all times and on a leash no longer than 6’. For the health and safety of all, pick up and properly dispose of pets’ waste.
Before You Go…
If severe weather is forecast or before traveling a long distance to attend, it is recommended you check to be sure the program has not been canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. It is best to check the program in the Events section of our Facebook page, our website’s Calendar of Events, or call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103.
Photo Disclaimer & Social Media
Registration for or attendance at any of our public programs and other activities constitutes an agreement allowing Fairfield County Park District to use and distribute, now and in the future, any image of the registrant/attendee in photographs, videos, and other electronic or print reproduction of images taken at events and activities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding use of images in which an attendee may appear, call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103 or speak to a staff member at any program or event.
If you take a great photo at this or another FCPD event and would be willing to let us use it to promote the park district, send it to us using the Submit a Photo page.
Daddy Longlegs | Luke, Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
Nature Myths
Tuesday, April 1, 2025
6:00-7:30 p.m.
Mambourg Park
5531 Cincinnati-Zanesville Rd NE (US-22)
Lancaster, OH 43130
Many say, ‘Daddy Longlegs are the deadliest spider in the world!’ Not true! In fact, they aren’t even a spider! Have fun and learn during this strange and silly presentation when many common nature myths will be debunked.
Afterward, go with us for a short hike on Oak Trail (optional). Will we find other creatures we thought we knew but don’t?
This program is best suited for all ages. Please do not bring pets to this program.
Where to Meet
Meet in the nature center. Reminder: Pets are not allowed inside the nature center.
Receive Updates & Reminders
To receive updates or reminders about this program, click/tap “Interested” or “Going” on this event on Facebook.
Before You Go…
If severe weather is forecast or before traveling a long distance to attend, it is recommended you check to be sure the program has not been canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. It is best to check the program in the Events section of our Facebook page, our website’s Calendar of Events, or call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103.
Photo Disclaimer & Social Media
Registration for or attendance at any of our public programs and other activities constitutes an agreement allowing Fairfield County Park District to use and distribute, now and in the future, any image of the registrant/attendee in photographs, videos, and other electronic or print reproduction of images taken at events and activities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding use of images in which an attendee may appear, call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103 or speak to a staff member at any program or event.
ABOUT MAMBOURG PARK
What to Bring
Bring your own drinking water. Potable water is not available at this location.
Trails
Trail conditions will vary based on weather; be prepared with appropriate footwear to hike in muddy or slippery conditions.
OAK TRAIL is about one mile long, includes a set of steps and a footbridge, and may be considered easy-to-moderate. Pets are not allowed on Oak Trail nor inside the nature center.
HICKORY TRAIL is about one-and-a-half miles long, includes footbridges, and may be considered easy-to-moderate. Pets are welcome on Hickory Trail. They must be under control at all times and on a leash no longer than 6’. For the health and safety of all, pick up and properly dispose of pets’ waste.
Trash Clean Up Day at Two Glaciers Park (2023)
Saturday, April 5, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Earth Month
Trash Clean Up Day
Smeck Park
7395 Basil Rd (south of OH-256)
Baltimore, OH 43105
April is a time of new beginnings. What better way to celebrate Earth Month than to give part of your local environment a second chance!? We will be working to give a small part of Smeck Part just that, a good cleanup and a chance for new growth.
There is an area about 1/2-mile down the trail, on uneven ground, where trash including rusty metal and broken glass needs to be removed. Can you help? Work gloves will be available to borrow, while supplies last; bring your own if possible. Sturdy footwear and safety goggles are recommended. Be prepared to get dirty!
So we know how much help to expect and what equipment/gloves/etc. will be needed, it would be appreciated if you would take less than a minute to let us know if you plan to come.
If you are coming to help, click here.
This activity is recommended for those ages 13 and older. For safety, please do not bring younger children. Do not bring pets.
Where to Meet
Meet just before 9:00 a.m. in front of Cruit House.
Receive Updates & Reminders
To receive updates or reminders about this program, click/tap “Interested” or “Going” on this event on Facebook.
Before You Go…
If severe weather is forecast or before traveling a long distance to attend, it is recommended you check to be sure the program has not been canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. It is best to check the program in the Events section of our Facebook page, our website’s Calendar of Events, or call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103.
Photo Disclaimer & Social Media
Registration for or attendance at any of our public programs and other activities constitutes an agreement allowing Fairfield County Park District to use and distribute, now and in the future, any image of the registrant/attendee in photographs, videos, and other electronic or print reproduction of images taken at events and activities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding use of images in which an attendee may appear, call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103 or speak to a staff member at any program or event.
ABOUT SMECK PARK
What to Bring
Bring your own drinking water. Potable water is not available at this location.
Pets
Pets may not enter buildings but are welcome outside and on the trails at Smeck Park. They must be under control at all times and on a leash no longer than 6’. For the health and safety of all, pick up and properly dispose of pets’ waste.
Red-breasted Nuthatch by Anthony Schmitt | photo used with permission
Bird Identification 101
Saturday, April 5, 2025
2:00-3:30 p.m.
Mambourg Park
5531 Cincinnati-Zanesville Rd NE (US-22)
Lancaster, OH 43130
Is that a bird? If it is really, really loud, it is probably a Carolina wren. If you’re new to birding or want to brush up on your skills, come to learn some tips-n-tricks for bird identification, followed by a one-mile-long hike on Oak Trail in search of our feathery friends.
This program is best suited for those age 10 and older. Please do not bring pets to this particular program.
Where to Meet
Meet in the nature center. Reminder: Pets are not allowed inside the nature center.
Receive Updates & Reminders
To receive updates or reminders about this program, click/tap “Interested” or “Going” on this event on Facebook.
Before You Go…
If severe weather is forecast or before traveling a long distance to attend, it is recommended you check to be sure the program has not been canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. It is best to check the program in the Events section of our Facebook page, our website’s Calendar of Events, or call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103.
Photo Disclaimer & Social Media
Registration for or attendance at any of our public programs and other activities constitutes an agreement allowing Fairfield County Park District to use and distribute, now and in the future, any image of the registrant/attendee in photographs, videos, and other electronic or print reproduction of images taken at events and activities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding use of images in which an attendee may appear, call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103 or speak to a staff member at any program or event.
ABOUT MAMBOURG PARK
What to Bring
Bring your own drinking water. Potable water is not available at this location.
Trails
Trail conditions will vary based on weather; be prepared with appropriate footwear to hike in muddy or slippery conditions.
OAK TRAIL is about one mile long, includes a set of steps and a footbridge, and may be considered easy-to-moderate. Pets are not allowed on Oak Trail nor inside the nature center.
HICKORY TRAIL is about one-and-a-half miles long, includes footbridges, and may be considered easy-to-moderate. Pets are welcome on Hickory Trail. They must be under control at all times and on a leash no longer than 6’. For the health and safety of all, pick up and properly dispose of pets’ waste.
Click image to get a printable 2025 Schedule
Second Wednesdays
9:00-11:00 a.m.
2025 Schedule, Below
WISE WALKERS
Senior Hiking Group
Fairfield County Park District and Lancaster Parks & Recreation invite you to join Wise Walkers!
Looking for ways to stay active? Love hiking but don’t want to go alone? Are you 55 or older? On the second Wednesday of each month, meet just before 9:00 a.m. at the locations listed below. Invite a friend or make new friends while you get outside to enjoy the fresh air and exercise.
No registration is required. If you see a date and location that works for you, meet just before 9 a.m. on that day. Of course, we hope you can make it to each and every hike to have fun with us!
Click image to get a printable Wise Walkers 2025 Schedule
2025 Schedule
- April 9
ALLEY PARK
2805 Old Logan Rd SE
Lancaster
Learn more about Alley Park at lancasterparks.com, a Lancaster Parks & Recreation location.
. - May 14
MAMBOURG PARK
5531 Cincinnati-Zanesville Rd NE (US-22)
Lancaster
Learn more about Mambourg Park, a Fairfield County Park District location.
. - June 11
KELLER-KIRN PARK
1601 N High St
Lancaster
Learn more about Keller-Kirn Park at lancasterparks.com, a Lancaster Parks & Recreation location.
. - July 9
WAHKEENA NATURE PRESERVE *
2200 Pump Station Rd
Sugar Grove
Learn more about Wahkeena Nature Preserve, a Fairfield County Park District location.
* Pets are never allowed in any nature preserve.
. - August 13
CROSS MOUND PARK
11615 16 th Rd SW
Stoutsville
Learn more about Cross Mound Park, a Fairfield County Park District location.
. - September 10
RISING PARK
1120 N High St
Lancaster
Learn more about Rising Park at lancasterparks.com, a Lancaster Parks & Recreation location.
. - October 8
SMECK PARK
7895 Basil Rd
Baltimore
Learn more about Smeck Park, a Fairfield County Park District location.
. - November 12
OLIVEDALE PARK
253 Boving Rd
Lancaster
Learn more about Olivedale Park at lancasterparks.com, a Lancaster Parks & Recreation location.
. - December 10
MAMBOURG PARK
5531 Cincinnati-Zanesville Rd NE (US-22)
Lancaster
Learn more about Mambourg Park, a Fairfield County Park District location.
.
PETS
Well-mannered pets are welcome in parks but are not permitted inside buildings. They must always be under control and on a leash no longer than 6’. For the health and safety of all, pick up and properly dispose of pets’ waste.
* Pets are never allowed in nature preserves.
UPDATES & REMINDERS
Bring your own drinking water. Potable water may not be available at every location. Dress for the weather! You may want to bring insect repellent, sunglasses, and/or a sun hat.
BEFORE YOU GO…
If severe weather is forecast or before traveling a long distance to attend, it is recommended you check to be sure the day’s outing has not been canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. It is best to check the program in the Events section of our Facebook page, our website’s Calendar of Events, or call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103.
To receive updates or reminders about this program, click/tap “Interested” or “Going” on this event on Facebook. Doing so doesn’t oblige you to attend; it only assures that Facebook notices will be sent to you when updates are posted.
PHOTO DISCLAIMER & SOCIAL MEDIA
Registration for or attendance at any of our public programs and other activities constitutes an agreement allowing Fairfield County Park District to use and distribute, now and in the future, any image of the registrant/attendee in photographs, videos, and other electronic or print reproduction of images taken at events and activities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding use of images in which an attendee may appear, call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103 or speak to a staff member at any program or event.
Spring Wildflowers Walk Series
Friday, April 11, 2025 | 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Cross Mound Park
11615 16th Rd SW
Stoutsville, OH 43154
Saturday, April 19, 2025 | 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Mambourg Park
5531 Cincinnati-Zanesville Rd NE (US-22)
Lancaster, OH 43130
Sunday, April 27, 2025 | 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Smeck Park
7395 Basil Rd
Baltimore, OH 43105
Blue, pink, white, and purple spring wildflowers will be blooming throughout the parks! See what each park has to offer. Join us!
At Cross Mound Park, the trail is just about one mile long. At Mambourg Park, the walk will be up to two miles. At Smeck Park, the walk may be over two miles on the trails. At each location, there may also be off-trail exploration.
These programs are best suited to people ages 13 and older. Please, do not bring pets to these programs.
Receive Updates & Reminders
To receive updates or reminders about this program, click/tap “Interested” or “Going” on this event on Facebook.
Before You Go…
If severe weather is forecast or before traveling a long distance to attend, it is recommended you check to be sure the program has not been canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. It is best to check the program in the Events section of our Facebook page, our website’s Calendar of Events, or call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103.
Photo Disclaimer & Social Media
Registration for or attendance at any of our public programs and other activities constitutes an agreement allowing Fairfield County Park District to use and distribute, now and in the future, any image of the registrant/attendee in photographs, videos, and other electronic or print reproduction of images taken at events and activities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding use of images in which an attendee may appear, call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103 or speak to a staff member at any program or event.
ABOUT THE PARKS
What to Bring
Bring your own drinking water. Potable water is not available at most locations. Keep in mind there are no toilets at Cross Mound Park.
Pets
Pets may not enter buildings, but are welcome at parks. They must be under control at all times and on a leash no longer than 6’. For the health and safety of all, pick up and properly dispose of pets’ waste.
WPA Pedestrian Bridge | Cross Mound Park
Saturday, April 12, 2025
10:00-11:00 a.m.
Historian Hike
Cross Mound Park
11615 16th Rd SW
Stoutsville, OH 43154
Do you know how Cross Mound got its name? What was its purpose? Stroll with us through the woods and listen to stories about the peoples native to the area and what they built. Learn also about the park’s interesting bridge and its history.
Suggested Audience
Ages 10 and older. Well-mannered pets are also welcome.
Where to Meet
Meet just before 10:00 a.m. in the picnic shelter.
Receive Updates
To receive updates or reminders about this program, click/tap “Interested” or “Going” on this event on Facebook. Doing so does not obligate you to attend.
REMINDERS
What to Bring
Bring your own drinking water. Potable water is not available at this location. Keep in mind there are no toilets at this location.
Pets
Pets are welcome at Cross Mound Park. They must be under control at all times and on a leash no longer than 6’. For the health and safety of all, pick up and properly dispose of pets’ waste.
Before You Go…
If severe weather is forecast or before traveling a long distance to attend, it is recommended you check to be sure the program has not been canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. It is best to check the program in the Events section of our Facebook page, our website’s Calendar of Events, or call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103.
Photo Disclaimer & Social Media
Registration for or attendance at any of our public programs and other activities constitutes an agreement allowing Fairfield County Park District to use and distribute, now and in the future, any image of the registrant/attendee in photographs, videos, and other electronic or print reproduction of images taken at events and activities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding use of images in which an attendee may appear, call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103 or speak to a staff member at any program or event.
If you take a great photo at this or another FCPD event and would be willing to let us use it to promote the park district, send it to us using the Submit a Photo page.
Saturday, April 12, 2025
2:00-4:30 p.m.
Invasive Species Workshop
REGISTRATION REQUIRED
See Below
Mambourg Park
5531 Cincinnati-Zanesville Rd NE (US-22)
Lancaster, OH 43130
Presented by
Fairfield County Park District, Wild Ones Fairfield County Ohio Chapter, OSU Extension Fairfield County
Invasive plants are trying to take over our forests! Learn about some of the most common invaders, how to identify and remove them. After the presentation, head into the park and off-trail with us to put your new skills to the test! Training and equipment will be provided.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Participants must be at least 13 years old. Any person between 13-17 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible party.
REGISTRATION will begin March 29.
Where to Meet
Those who received a registration confirmation should meet in the nature center before 2:00 p.m. so the program may begin promptly. Please do not bring pets to this program.
Receive Updates & Reminders
To receive updates or reminders about this program, click/tap “Interested” or “Going” on this event on Facebook.
Before You Go…
If severe weather is forecast or before traveling a long distance to attend, it is recommended you check to be sure the program has not been canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. It is best to check the program in the Events section of our Facebook page, our website’s Calendar of Events, or call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103.
Photo Disclaimer & Social Media
Registration for or attendance at any of our public programs and other activities constitutes an agreement allowing Fairfield County Park District to use and distribute, now and in the future, any image of the registrant/attendee in photographs, videos, and other electronic or print reproduction of images taken at events and activities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding use of images in which an attendee may appear, call 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103 or speak to a staff member at any program or event.
ABOUT MAMBOURG PARK
What to Bring
Bring your own drinking water. Potable water is not available at this location.
Trails
Trail conditions will vary based on weather; be prepared with appropriate footwear to hike in muddy or slippery conditions.
OAK TRAIL is about one mile long, includes a set of steps and a footbridge, and may be considered easy-to-moderate. Pets are not allowed on Oak Trail nor inside the nature center.
HICKORY TRAIL is about one-and-a-half miles long, includes footbridges, and may be considered easy-to-moderate. Pets are welcome on Hickory Trail. They must be under control at all times and on a leash no longer than 6’. For the health and safety of all, pick up and properly dispose of pets’ waste.
SAVE THE DATE
Sunday, August 24, 2025
Details To Be Determined
Intro to Pollinator Gardens
presented by
Fairfield County Park District | Wild Ones of Fairfield County
Lockville Canal Park
Native flowers provide so much for our pollinators! Learn about native plants, how to find them, and how to your add them to your landscape. Get hands-on experience helping start a garden right there in the park!
As the date draws near, details will be added. Please check our Calendar for updates.
Dwarf Crested Iris
Multiple Dates, See Below
Spring Wildflowers Walk Series
Wahkeena Nature Preserve
2200 Pump Station Rd
Sugar Grove, OH 43155
Springtime brings a parade of wildflowers to the woodland landscape. Join our naturalist for a walk on the forested trails (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours). Wildflower identification, folklore, and other topics of natural history will be explored along the way.
1:00-3:00 p.m. on Sundays, April 13, April 27, May 4, May 11
Be sure to add Wildflowers & Ferns Walk on May 25 to your calendar. On this final Spring walk, the focus will turn from the fading wildflowers to the many species of native ferns to be found at Wahkeena.
What to Bring
Bring your own drinking water.
No Pets
Pets are never allowed in any nature preserve.
Follow this Event on Facebook
To receive notices and updates about this program, click/tap “Interested” or “Going” on this event on Facebook. That doesn’t not obligate you to attend but assures you receive updates as they are published.
REMINDERS
Before You Go…
If severe weather is forecast or before traveling a long distance to attend, it is recommended you check to be sure the program has not been canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. It is best to check the program in the Events section of our Facebook page, our website’s Calendar of Events, or call 614 321-4833 ext 103 or 740 652-4422 or 800 297-1883.
Photo Disclaimer & Social Media
Registration for or attendance at any of our public programs and other activities constitutes an agreement allowing Fairfield County Park District to use and distribute, now and in the future, any image of the registrant/attendee in photographs, videos, and other electronic or print reproduction of images taken at events and activities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding use of images in which an attendee may appear, call our Media Coordinator at 740 652-4422 or 614 321-4833 ext 103 or speak to a staff member at any event or program.
Commissioners
Jeffrey Feyko, Chairperson
Ami Williams, Vice-chairperson
David Smith
Sherry Orlando
John Watts
Director, Fairfield County Park District
Marcey Shafer
Location
Mambourg Park
5531 Cincinnati-Zanesville Rd NE (US-22)
Lancaster, OH 43130
Meeting Information
Fairfield County Board of Park Commissioners’ regular meetings are at 2:00 p.m. on the second Monday of each month. If that is a day the office is closed in recognition of a holiday or interferes with another special event, it will be rescheduled to, usually, the following Monday.
Meetings are open to the public.
You are welcome to read Meeting Minutes from previous meetings. For more information, call 614 321-4833 ext 101 or 740 652-4416 or send a request by email to gcaito@fairfieldcountyparks.org.
Social Contact