Fort McAllister State Park, a 1,725-acre Georgia state park home to the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy, will host these fun summer upcoming events:

Fishing In Our Coastal Waters @ Fort McAllister State Park
Saturday, June 20, 2015
1 – 2:30 p.m.
Learn about how to fish in our local rivers and around the barrier islands from our experts. You will learn about the regulations and required licenses as well as what equipment you need. Live or artificial bait, how to throw a cast net, and where and when to fish, will all be covered in this informative class. This is perfect for new Georgians. $4 per person.

Junior Ranger Camp @ Fort McAllister State Park
Weekdays, June 22 – 26, 2015
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The theme for this camp is Archaeology and Native Americans of our area. We will have archeological digs and discover hidden treasures. Work beside a professional archaeologist and use their tools to learn just what they do as an archaeologist. We will also explore the Guale Tribe who once made their home right here. $90 per child.

Independence Day Celebration @ Fort McAllister State Park
Saturday, July 4, 2015
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Celebrate Independence Day like it’s 1864. Join us for old-fashioned fun. Games, food and fun for all. Living history demonstrations, cannon firings and musket demonstrations. $8 per adult and $5 per children ages 6-17.

Story Time With A Ranger @ Fort McAllister State Park
Thursday, July 16, 2015
10 – 11 a.m.
Join a ranger as she reads stories with a nature theme. Enjoy the books and then stay for some fun at our playgrounds and picnic areas. $5 parking.

Labor Day Celebration @ Fort McAllister State Park
Saturday, September 5, 2015
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Join us for some old-fashioned family fun. Civil War era games and prizes. $8 per adult and $5 per children ages 6-17.

Fort McAllister State Historic Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, GA 31324

For more information, call 912.727.2339 or email your questions to FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org.

ABOUT FORT MCALLISTER:

Located south of Savannah on the banks of the Ogeechee River, Fort McAllister showcases the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. The earthworks were attacked seven times by Union ironclads but did not fall until 1864 — ending Gen. William T. Sherman’s “March to the Sea.”  Visitors can explore the grounds with cannons, a furnace, bombproof, barracks, palisades and more, while a Civil War museum contains artifacts, a video and gift shop.

Nestled among giant live oaks, Spanish moss and salt marsh, this park is a beautiful location for camping, fishing, boating and picnicking. Seven cabins sit on stilts near the marsh, surrounded by palm trees and palmettos. The shaded campground is bordered by tidal Redbird Creek, a boat ramp, fishing dock and nature trail. A large picnic area offers river views and playgrounds, while another boat ramp provides access to the Ogeechee River.

For more information, visit www.gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister.

Fort McAllister State Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Road, Richmond Hill, GA 31324

COPE (Childhood Obesity Prevention & Education, www.copeforchange.org , On Facebook here. 

If you are new to the Savannah area or are a new parent, then you need to check out Toddler Tuesdays, a fun weekly program that celebrates nature @ Oatland Island Wildlife Center, 711 Sandtown Rd. Savannah, GA, 31410.

At Toddler Tuesday, children & their parents/caretakers experience nature through themed activities including live animal encounters, wildlife nature walks, storytelling, songs, interactive finger-play & crafts.

Oatland’s naturalist Michelle Kelly leads these exciting & educational sessions.

Program fee includes program and entrance to Oatland Island Wildlife Center and trails.

Admission rates & driving directions here.

Toddler Tuesdays at Oatland Island Wildlife Center.
Programs are at 10 AM & 11 AM on Tuesdays each week . Pre-registration required before 4 PM Monday prior. Call 395-1517 or register online by clicking here. 

Toddler Tuesday Program Fees for 2015:
General: $5 per child $5 per adult
Friends of Oatland Members: $5 per child, up to 2 adults FREE!

Program fee includes program and entrance to Oatland Island Wildlife Center and trails.

TODDLER TUESDAY THEMES

October 6 Bats eat bugs—They don’t eat people. October is International Bat Month! We will study bats at this Toddler Tuesday and dispel some myths and learn to appreciate these nocturnal aerial acrobatists.

October 13 Who’s Awake?—If Wahoohoo is not awake, then we will wake her up to come to her annual autumnal Toddler Tuesday debut. Owl breeding season has arrived and we want to make sure you can tell Who is hooting in your back yard.

October 20 No Toddler Tuesday because organizers will by busy preparing the center for our annual kid festival fundraiser: the Halloween Hike. Do not miss this good time on both Friday, October 23rd and Saturday, October 24th from 5-8pm.

October 27 Trick or Treat—It is Halloween so we are going to hand out sweets to our animals and find out who at Oatland has a sweet tooth. Bring your strollers because we will be sharing some treats with our barn animals.

Oatland Island Wildlife Center Wildlife, 711 Sandtown Rd. Savannah, GA, 31410 (912) 395-1212 Driving directions here.

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 FOR MORE PARENT & ME SAVANNAH EVENTS, CLICK HERE. 

Congratulations Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge nearby in South Carolina which was spotlighted in the July 2014 issue of Parents Magazine, available now.

The article ’50 Free Attractions Across America’ found a fabulous free attraction in every state that won’t cost you a dime any day of the year. In South Carolina, the destination featured is nearby Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, and in Georgia, the destination is BabyLand General Hospital in Cleveland, Ga.

Pinckney is a great daytrip from Savannah, located 1/2 miles west of Hilton Head Island off of U.S. Highway 278. Details here. Bikes are welcome. Pinckney is perfect spot to see white ibis, herons, and egrets, maybe some alligators and deer. Bathrooms and picnic spots available. Free parking.

Parents Magazine, we couldn’t agree more. Pinckney Is. is an amazing free family-friendly attraction. Check out the Land of the Free feature on page 44 in the July issue.

There are 10 miles (16.1 km) of hiking trails on the refuge and nine recommended hikes:
Ibis Pond – 1.2 miles (1.9 km), round trip; one and a half hours walking at a leisurely pace
Shell Point – 4.6 miles (7.4 km), round trip; four hours and 15 minutes
Wood Stork Pond – 2.7 miles (4.3 km), round trip; two and a half hours
Osprey Pond – 3.0 miles (4.8 km), round trip; three hours
Nini Chapin Pond – 3.6 miles (5.8 km), round trip; three and a half hours
Bull Point – 5.0 miles (8.0 km), round trip; five hours
Dick Point – 7.4 miles (11.9 km), round trip; six and a half hours
Clubhouse Pond – 6.2 miles (10.0 km), round trip; five and a half hours
White Point – 7.8 miles (12.6 km), round trip; seven hours

Historic Savannah Hikes via Massie Heritage Center, 507 E. Gordon St. Savannah, 31401

Who can participate? Scouts of all ages as well as individuals or other groups are invited to participate in these fun, educational programs. Massie offers a version for younger and older scouts to help accommodate your particular pack or troop.) For effective supervision and safety, one adult for every ten students is recommended and admitted with no fee. Massie expects leaders and other chaperones to assist accordingly in managing their group at all times. Additional guests will be charged the regular program rate and their numbers may be limited depending on the overall size of the group.

What to expect? There are two versions of Massie’s Historic Savannah Hike: one is for younger scouts (Toonahowi) and the other is more advanced for older scouts (Tomochichi). Both hikes include a one-hour tour inside Massie, where scouts will be oriented to the downtown historic district by learning about Savannah’s city plan, architecture, historic preservation, the Native Americans who first inhabited the area, as well as what school was like in the 1800s.

Two options:

Toonahowi Hike: Explore historic Savannah on a 1.5 mile walking tour visiting eight different locations with a total walking time of about one hour. Total program time including Massie tour and hike is about two hours.

Tomochichi Hike: Explore historic Savannah on a 2.5 mile walking tour visiting thirteen different locations with a total walking time of about ninety minutes. Total program time including Massie tour and hike is about two and a half hours.

What is the cost of the program? The cost is $10.00 per participant for a guided hike with one of Massie’s Heritage Specialists, with a minimum of group size of ten. Successful participants will receive either a Toonahowi or Tomochichi patch. Scouts choosing a self-guided hike will pay the regular Massie admission fee (or special rate for groups of 15 or more) and can purchase a scout patch for $3 upon successful completion of the hike and questionnaire.
What is the minimum or maximum number of participants for a guided hike? The minimum number of participants for a guided hike is 10. Smaller groups will need to pay the full price for ten participants ($100). Massie can easily accommodate groups of up to 60 total participants (including scout leaders, parents, chaperones, etc.) and can lead up to 100 with sufficient notice and scheduling flexibility.
How do I reserve a guided hike? Please call Massie at (912) 395-5070 to make your reservation. Massie will need to know (1) the number of scouts and adults, (2) the date and time you would like, and (3) whether your group would like to take on the Toonahowi or Tomochichi challenge. Please let Massie know if you have any special needs or requirements.

What to bring? Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared to walk the required distance in varying weather conditions. Sunscreen, bug spray, a water bottle and rain gear is recommended. Strollers are not recommended. Participants will need to be careful crossing all streets and be respectful of Savannah’s Historic District, its residents, and their property. As scouts, they should remember: The city should be left better than they found it.

Where to park? The Historic Savannah Hikes will begin and end at the Massie Heritage Center on Calhoun Square at the corner of Abercorn and East Gordon streets. Limited free parking is available on the streets around Massie.
What about lunch? If you plan to bring box lunches for your hikes, Massie recommends utilizing nearby Forsyth Park, only two blocks from Massie, which has benches, a playground, and restrooms. You should bring extra trash bags and blankets. Calhoun Square across from Massie may accommodate small groups. Due to limited space, you will not be able to store lunches inside Massie. Massie hs cold drinks available for sale in the gift shop.
What about a gift shop and restrooms? Please plan your itinerary so that your scouts will have time to browse our gift shop and use Massie’s restroom facilities.
Is this program limited to scouts only? No. It is intended to be both age and content appropriate for scouts, but anyone or any group may participate in this program.

Massie Heritage Center, 207 East Gordon St. Savannah,31401 tel: (912) 395-5070, http://MassieHeritageCenter.com

The reopening of Cougar Crossing at Oatland Island Wildlife Center , Savannah, will be this Saturday, May 31, 2014.

The exhibit area will offer a new, enhanced viewing area allowing for ground level, close-up views of the cougars.

In addition to the enhanced viewing area, Oatland Island Wildlife Center staff are pleased to introduce Shanti, a recent addition to Oatland’s family.

Cougar Crossing will be open to the public starting Saturday May 31 during regular operating hours.

Oatland Island Wildlife Center, 711 Sandtown Road, Savannah, 31410 tel: (912) 395-1212
http://www.oatlandisland.org

Celebrate Memorial Day with a reflection on American battles, touring historic sites.

Below are Georgia forts, museums and battlefields near Savannah. For directions and admission fees, visit GeorgiaStateParks.org.

·Fort King George State Historic Site, Darien
From 1721 until 1736, this fort was the southern outpost of the British empire in North America. Climb into the reconstructed cypress blockhouse, explore the palisaded earthen fort and tabby ruins, tour the museum. Be sure to hike the pretty nature trail following the river and marsh. For those wishing to take a mini staycation while in the area, campsites and cabins are nearby at Fort McAllister and Skidaway Island state parks.

·Fort Morris State Historic Site, Midway
This earthen fort on the Medway River protected Georgia against the British in both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. A museum describes the colonial port of Sunbury, and a nature trail and picnic sites are available. For a holiday getaway, cabins and campsites are found nearby at Fort McAllister and Skidaway Island state parks.

·Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill
This beautiful park south of Savannah marked the end of General Sherman’s March to the Sea and is the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. On Saturday, May 24, watch a program about Civil War soldiers, as well as musket and cannon firings. Nestled among giant live oaks and Spanish moss, this park is also a great place for camping, hiking, fishing and boating. Cabins overlook the forest and marsh.

Kids can earn a limited edition Civil War badge. Details here.

Georgia State Park now offers gift cards. Think perfect gift for golfers, hikers, anglers, campers, history buffs or anyone who enjoys being outdoors. Details here.

It’s time to get your bird on!

Whether your a veteran birder or a newbie, kick of National Park Week with a free bird walk at Fort Pulaski National Monument. On Saturday, June 21 meet with a member of the Savannah chapter of the National Audubon Society to learn more about the wings of spring on Cockspur Island. There’s no charge for the program. Meet at the park entrance at 8 a.m. for a fascinating walk on the natural history side. More info here.

Fort Pulaski National Monument will be partnering with the Ogeechee Audubon Society, the Savannah chapter of the National Audubon Society, for a series of bird walks inside te park. Every 3rd Saturday, at 8:00 AM, members of this organization will lead bird walks in the park. As the seasons change and birds migrate, there will be the opportunity to see new and different birds. Interested birders can meet a member of the Ogeechee Audubon Society near the park’s Entrance Station at 8:00 AM. We will be on the lookout for marsh sparrows, shorebirds, and sedge wrens. At 9:00 AM, the bird walk will move through the park. These special programs will be offered each month at no charge. No reservations are necessary.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ ACTIVITIES, CLICK HERE.

Oatland Island Wildlife Center
Wildlife and education programs
711 Sandtown Rd.
Savannah, GA, 31410
(912) 395-1212

Admission rates & driving directions here.

Toddler Tuesdays at Oatland Island Wildlife Center.
Programs are at 10 AM & 11 AM on Tuesdays each week . Pre-registration required. Call 395-1500

Toddler Tuesday Program Fees for 2013:
General: $5 per child $5 per adult
Friends of Oatland Members: $5 per child, up to 2 adults FREE!

Program fee includes program and entrance to Oatland Island Wildlife Center and trails.

Toddler Tuesday Topics

If you are new to the Savannah area or are a new parent, then you need to check out Toddler Tuesdays, a fun weekly program that celebrates nature @ Oatland Island Wildlife Center, 711 Sandtown Rd. Savannah, GA, 31410.

At Toddler Tuesday, children & their parents/caretakers experience nature through themed activities including live animal encounters, wildlife nature walks, storytelling, songs, interactive finger-play & crafts.

Oatland’s naturalist Michelle Kelly leads these exciting & educational sessions.

NEW TIMES: 10 AM & 11 AM

Admission rates & driving directions here.

Toddler Tuesdays Programs sare at 10 AM & 11 AM on Tuesdays each week . Pre-registration required. Call 395-1500

Toddler Tuesday Program Fees: General: $5 per child $5 per adult Friends of Oatland Members: $5 per child, up to 2 adults FREE!

Program fee includes program and entrance to Oatland Island Wildlife Center and trails.

FOR UPCOMING TODDLER TUESDAY THEMES, CLICK HERE.

Oatland Island Wildlife Center Wildlife, 711 Sandtown Rd. Savannah, GA, 31410 (912) 395-1212 Driving directions here.

Skidaway Island State Park playground

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park in April 2014 to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays including free Toddler Time for kids ages 2-4 and their caregivers at 10 AM Thursdays. Bring your child to enjoy stories, games and learning designed just for them. Each week there will be a different nature based theme.

Other free nature kids’ programs happening in April 2014 include fire building 101, bird hikes, night sensory hike, toads & turtles, reptile show & an Easter Blast festival with an egg hunt.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during April 2014, click here.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Bird watch with professional birders every 3rd Saturday at Fort Pulaski National Monument

Starting in February, Fort Pulaski National Monument will be partnering with the Ogeechee Audubon Society, the Savannah chapter of the National Audubon Society. Every 3rd Saturday at 8 AM, members of this organization will lead bird walks in the park. As the seasons change and birds migrate, there will be the opportunity to see new and different birds.

The next program of this collaboration will be on Sat. March 15. Interested birders can meet Nick Martens and Maureen Leong-kee near the park’s Entrance Station at 8 AM.  Be on the lookout for marsh sparrows, shorebirds, and sedge wrens. At 9 AM, Nick and Maureen will lead a bird walk through the park. These special programs will be offered each month at no charge.  

Click here for a list of children’s books for young birdwatchers at Science Books for Kids

Fort Pulaski National Monument, off U.S. Highway 80, 12 miles east of Savannah, (912) 786-5787,  www.nps.gov/fopu. Learn more about Fort Pulaski National Monument on Facebook www.facebook.com/FortPulaskiNPS and Twitter www.twitter.com/FortPulaskiNPS.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Join the national “First Day Hikes” movement and start off 2014 with a healthy hike in Georgia’s State Parks.

More than 40 walks cover history, geology, fitness and even a Black Bear Plunge. Find a ranger-led trek near you at http://www.georgiastateparks.org/firstdayhikes

Some nearby ones on the list include:

First Day Hike at Skidaway Island / 2 PM
Skidaway IslandSkidaway Isalnd State Park – Savannah, GA
Take a guided tour of the marsh through our Sandpiper Trail with a park ranger. Plan for about an hour on this one mile hike, where you will learn about life in a Georgia marsh. Please dress in comfortable clothing. $5 parking. 912-598-2300

First Day Hike at Fort McAllister, Richmond Hill
Wednesday, Jan 1, 2014 1 PM to 3 PM
Fort McAllister Historic Park – Richmond Hill, GA
Come take a leisurely stroll through the woods with us on our 3 mile loop trail as we walk and talk about the winter wildlife in the maritime forests and marshlands of the Georgia Coast. From the chirping in the trees to the rustles in the woods, we’ll explore the wild side of Fort McAllister State Historic Park with a focus on the birds of winter. $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Crooked River’s First Day Hike
Wednesday, Jan 1, 2014 1 PM to 3 PM
Crooked River State Park – St. Marys, GA
Meet at the Nature Center for a walk on the Bay Boardwalk trail. Vistas include wetland habitats plus our unique longleaf pine/saw palmetto ecosystem. Enjoy the great outdoors, camaraderie on the trail plus party hats. $2 plus $5 parking. 912-882-5256.

First Day Hike at Gordonia-Alatamaha / 8 AM to 4 PM
Gordonia-AlatamahaGordonia-Alatamaha State Park – Reidsville, GA
Start your New Year off right by getting outdoors and taking a guided hike. Our Nature Trail is a 1 mile loop that is moderate in duration. $5 parking. 912-557-7744

And lots of other first-day hikes in Georgia here.

FOR MORE LOCAL HOLIDAY EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during November .  To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during November 2013, click here.

This months highlights include:

* Toddler Time at 10 AM on Thursdays : Stories, games, and learning designed for 2-4 year olds. This upcoming week’s theme is birds . See upcoming themes here..

* SMORES & STORIES AROUND THE CAMPFIRE: 6 PM FRI. Nov. 8 Campfire:  Meet and greet fellow park visitors for Smores and stories around the campfire. Meet at Amphitheatre across from Picnic Shelter 4.

* Owl Programs at 2 PM Wed. Nov. 6 & 6 PM Sat. Nov. 23.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during November 2013, click here.

FOR MORE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, VISIT OUR ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR BY CLICKING HERE

Public Archeology Walking Tours offered by Digging Savannah this Fall include:

Free “Your State Parks Day” Saturday, September 28, 2013

Join Georgians in a celebration of our State Parks & Historic Sites with free admission on Saturday, September 28. Sponsored by Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites, the statewide event showcases how parks enrich communities and the importance of local volunteerism. Choose from activities ranging from trail maintenance and river cleanups, to guided hikes and golf tournaments.

Put away your wallet and pull out your work gloves. Visitors to Georgia’s State Parks & Historic Sites will not pay for parking or admission on Saturday, September 28 as part of the statewide “Your State Parks Day.” Sponsored by the Friends of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites, with support from REI, the celebration highlights the importance of volunteerism and the many ways that recreation enriches communities. Parking is normally $5 at state parks, and admission ranges from $2.50 to $10 at state historic sites.

The statewide event includes numerous volunteer projects and family-friendly programs. A complete list of events and volunteer projects can be found at GeorgiaStateParks.org/parks-day.

Friends is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Georgia’s state parks and historic sites in many ways. Some members raise funds for specific projects, others lead programs such as bird walks, and some help with maintenance. Many support the organization simply by purchasing annual memberships or making donations.

Free parking and admission during “Your State Parks Day” is available to all Georgia residents and visitors. Participating locations can be found on GeorgiaStateParks.org, and includes Black Rock Mountain, Crooked River, Sweetwater Creek, Dahlonega Gold Museum, Reed Bingham, Etowah Indian Mounds, Indian Springs and dozens of other destinations. Because Stone Mountain, Jekyll Island and Lake Lanier are not operated by the Department of Natural Resources’ State Parks Division, they are not included in the free day. The day-long celebration is also in honor of National Public Lands Day and is a Georgia SHAPE Initiative.
When:
Saturday, September 28, 2013
7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
@ more than 60 State Parks & Historic Sites across Georgia including Skidaway Is. State Park, Wormsloe, Fort McAllister and find more here:

More info:
1-800-864-7275
www.GeorgiaStateParks.org
www.FriendsofGaStateParks.org

Come out to Skidaway Is. State Park to enjoy FREE night hikes, s’mores & campfire evenings, owl nights, star-gazing nights as well as organized daytime kids’ activities . To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park, click here.

June 1- Saturday 11:00AM Interpretive Center Tour: Explore our museum and get all the details about our native wildlife, the history of the island and check out some live rare birds. 3:00PM Knot Tying: Learn the basics on some handy knots for everyday use. 8:30PM Campfire: Meet at the amphitheater for yummy s’mores and share stories with others around a fire.

June 2- Sunday 10:00AM Sandpiper Trail Hike: Meander through the marsh on a guided hike with one of our knowledgeable park rangers. 3:00PM Dinner time: Watch as the ranger feeds the reptiles, leaping lizards, chopping turtles and snakes licking their chops.

June 5- Wednesday 10:00AM What a Hoot!: Owls can be found all over the United States. Come learn about these amazing birds and which ones we have here in Georgia. 3:00PM Dinner time: Watch as the ranger feeds the reptiles, leaping lizards, chopping turtles and snakes licking their chops.

June 6- Thursday 10:00AM Morning Bird Watch: Learn the basics about local bird varieties as we gaze upon our feeding stations. 2:00PM Fossils Show and Tell: Come see and talk about the collection of fossils at the Interpretive Center. 8:30PM Whooooo is out there?: Join us to learn about owls and their behavior and then head out into the night to try and hear a hoot.

June 7- Friday 1:00PM Reptiles and Amphibians: Discover Georgia’s diversity of reptiles and amphibians – 2nd highest in the US. Learn from calls, view some of the state’s most secretive animals and get close to live examples. 8:30PM Fungus Among Us: Come out into the night to look for lichen, that glows in the dark.

June 8- Saturday 10:00AM Big Ferry Guided Hike: Come for a 2 to 3 mile hike through a Maritime Forest, learning early history of Skidaway. Meet at the Big Ferry Trail Head. 9:00PM Skidaway Stars: From our trails at night you can see hundreds of stars. Come out to see the constellations and hear the stories behind them.

June 9- Sunday 9:00AM Double Loop Hike: Join a ranger for a guided hike through the marsh on the sandpiper trail and Avian Loop Trail. Plan about 1 ½ hour hike.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park for the month of June 2013, click here.

If you are new to the Savannah area or are a new parent, then you need to check out Toddler Tuesdays, a fun weekly program that celebrates nature @  Oatland Island Wildlife Center, 711 Sandtown Rd. Savannah, GA, 31410.

At Toddler Tuesday, children & their parents/caretakers experience nature through themed activities including live animal encounters, wildlife nature walks, storytelling, songs, interactive finger-play & crafts.

Oatland’s naturalist Michelle Kelly leads these exciting & educational sessions.

NEW TIME: One session 10:30-11:15 am.

Admission rates & driving directions here.

Toddler Tuesdays Program is at 10:30 AM on Tuesdays each week . Pre-registration required. Call 395-1500

Toddler Tuesday Program Fees: General: $5 per child $5 per adult Friends of Oatland Members: $5 per child, up to 2 adults FREE!

Program fee includes program and entrance to Oatland Island Wildlife Center and trails.

TODDLER TUESDAY THEMES
January to March 2013

January 8th, 2013: Armadillo, The Dirt Digging Dynamo
Has anyone seen a turtle- rabbit before? Well, this is as close as you will get to seeing one. We’ll investigate these little armored ones and find out why we dig them so much.

January 15th, 2013: Toddler Tuesday’s Turtle Time
We’ll discover these prehistoric shelled creatures of water and land; so get out of your shell and head on over to Oatland’s Toddler Tuesday for this day.

January 22nd, 2013: Let’s Get it Right! Georgia’s Right Whales
It is no fluke that we are studying whales this time of year! They are living off the Georgia coast right now! These beautiful beasts give birth and raise their calves just off of Georgia, South Carolina and northern Florida’s coast each winter. We’ll celebrate their life cycle TT style.

January 29th, 2013: Alligator
It’s an all-included Alligator gathering! The alligator is my friend. He can be yours too…if you join me for Toddler Tuesday on this day.

February 5th, 2013: Indigo Snake
It is the year of the Snake in Chinese Culture. Come to Toddler Tuesday and celebrate the New Year with our honorary serpentine friend Bella.

February 12th, 2013: Honey Bees
We are sure to have a sweet time learning about these magnificent pollinators. We’ll make a craft and then make a bee line straight to the hives to see the bee dance in action. Warning, you may have to bee-have!

February 19th, 2013: Bovine Birthday Bash
Mooo- ve on over to Oatland for this Toddler Tuesday– It’s Sapphire the cow’s birthday! We’ll sing songs, roll play and stroll over to shower Sapphire with birthday love.

February 26th, 2013: Dolphin Discovery
Did you know that dolphin call each other by name? Come to this program and we’ll make a splash learning amazing facts about these highly intelligent creatures that are so common along the GA coast.

March 5th, 2013: Sing, Sing a Songbird
You don’t want to miss this Toddler Tuesday. We are learning all about nature’s best singers, the songbirds. We’ll sing a few songs ourselves then take the class outside and hear these spring time serenades first hand!

March 12th, 2013: ‘Possum Party!
You are cordially invited to Petunia the ‘Possum’s 2nd birthday party. We’ll lean about Possums and celebrate her birthday Toddler Tuesday style. It’s a birthday bash you won’t want to miss.

March 19th 2013: Sheep to Shawl
Baa baa black sheep gonna’ sheer your wool…for the sheep to shawl festival coming up the weekend after this TT. We’ll get an early start studying these wooly creatures. Bring your strollers because we are heading over to the barn to give our very own Dottie a sheep treat.

March 26th, 2013: Rabbit Rendez-vous
What Oatland animal loves the springtime? You’ll have rabbits on your mind during this holiday time; so why not have one in the classroom? We have a warm and fuzzy time learning about these lovely little lagomorphs, so hop on over to Oatland for this TT event.

More to come in Spring 2013. Stay tuned.

How can you help save Savannah’s beleaguered Rails to Trails, the 6-mile biking/walking/jogging nature trail between U.S. 80 East and the Savannah River and help get it restored?

Register for the Savannah Rails to Trails 50K, 25KK and 5K, set to take place on January 12, 2013. The race will be on Fort Pulaski and Rails to Trails. This is Savannah’s FIRST Ultra Marathon. Proceeds will benefit the restoration and maintenance of Rails to Trails Savannah, which is also known as McQueen’s Trail.

Rails to Trails is eroding so badly that the west end is almost impassable in some areas.

Register by clicking here. Read about the volunteers behind the effort to Save Our Rails to Trails by clicking here.

Keep up to date with efforts under way to save Rails to Trails by liking the Facebook page here.

Plan to take part in The Leukemia Cup “Run for Jane,” a 5K Run/Walk and FREE Kids Run held in conjunction with the 2012 St. Joseph’s/Candler Leukemia Cup Regatta Weekend of Events.

This run is the only Savannah run that takes place in a National Park.

It is named in honor of Dr. Jane Philbrick, who is well described by Mr. Paul Hinchey as being a, “very well known educator here in Savannah and a strong community supporter. She was a remarkable person, a consummate professional and had a heart of gold.” The Leukemia Cup is a community coming together through a series of sporting events to help fight leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood cancers, coordinated by the members of the Savannah Yacht Club. The Leukemia Cup Includes: 5K Run / Walk, golf, junior fishing, in-shore fishing, tennis, sailing,  black-tie dinner & auction and a Luau for Leukemia. In 1997,The Leukemia Cup began as a Sailing Regatta and has since emerged as a premier series of sporting events benefiting the mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Leukemia Cup Run for Jane 5K & Fun Walk
Fort Pulaski
8:30 AM Saturday September 1
Kid’s Run at 8:15 AM
Register at Fleet Feet
Please Make Checks Payable to: LLS (Leukemia & Lymphoma Society)
Registration Fees
$28 until August 1
$32 until August 31st
$35 Race Day – September 1st
Kiddie Run – FREE
Packet Pick-Up
Fleet Feet Sports Savannah
Friday August 31st
10am – 6pm

Savannah’s Rails to Trails  – a 6 mile biking/walking/jogging trail along the Savannah River – is eroding. The west end is so bad that it is almost impassable in some areas.

If you want this trail to be there in the future for your kids to enjoy, please like Save our Rails to Trails Savannah Facebook page here to find out how you can help. The mission of Save our Rails to Trails Savannah Facebook pg is to bring awareness to the deteriorating conditions of Rails to Trails & get it restored.

Rails to Trails is along Hwy 80 East on your way to Tybee. The main entrance is just past the Bull River Bridge coming off the islands (Whitemarsh, Talahi & Wilmington). Rails To Trails is known on maps as “McQueen’s Trail” & “McQueen’s Island”. The other entrance is immediately left upon turning into Fort Pulaski.

Volunteers working to save Rails to Trails plan to have workdays once a month. Stay updated about the clean-ups & other ways to help (fundraising, etc) by liking their page here.

“First Day Hikes” Help Start the New Year with a Healthy Heart

Georgia’s State Parks host 12 New Year’s Day Hikes across the state, inviting families and friends to start the New Year with a “First Day Hike” and a commitment to healthy living.

In Georgia, a dozen state parks have planned guided hikes where people can connect with nature and even re-connect with each other. The nationwide event is sponsored by America’s State Parks, with New Year’s Day hikes being led in all 50 states.

Kicking off the New Year with an invigorating hike fits into the mission of the Georgia State Parks Tons of Fun Initiative: to encourage citizens to lead healthier lifestyles through outdoor recreation. The TonsofFun.org website includes exercise ideas, healthy recipes, nutritionist and personal trainer advice, and more.

A list of all ranger-led hikes on New Year’s Day can be found here, and the entire calendar of events can be found at GeorgiaStateParks.org/Events. Families may want to call ahead to make sure hikes are suitable for the youngest family members.

To see the various First-Day Hikes in Georgia’s State Parks held on New Year’s Day 2012, click here.

Fall means time to explore Georgia State Parks.

Start planning your leaves-changing getaway by checking out  got all September & October 2011 events happening at state parks and historic spots across the state. The events are listed on the SouthernMamas.com Georgia State Parks Events page here.

Gorge hikes, group hayrides, outdoor music festivals, full moon hikes & more.

To find out state park event details, visit the new SouthernMamas.com Georgia State Parks Events page by clicking here.

Free kid-friendly structured activities are regularly held at the park. For a complete listing of September 2011 Free Skidaway Island State Park Kid-Friendly Events, visit our new Skidaway State Park children’s activities page by clicking here.

The park’s Interpretive Center (i.e. Nature Center) is surrounded by easy hiking trails including the 1-mile Avian Loop Trail, 1-mile Sandpiper Trail Loop, and the 3-mile Big Ferry Trail Loop.

The Interpretive Center includes a display of the Giant Ground Sloth replica (pictured here); wildlife exhibits; live reptiles including a terrapin turtle; and birding station.

Interpretive Center hours: Wednesday-Sunday 10 AM-5 PM at Skidaway Island State Park. Cost: $5 for parking.
52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, 31411, 912-598-2300, http://www.gastateparks.org/SkidawayIsland

The hot weather will subside someday. We promise.

And when it does, you want to be ready to explore Georgia State Parks. We’ve got all the info on September events happening a state parks and historic spots across the state. Gorge hikes, group hayrides, outdoor music festivals, full moon hikes, Labor Day festivities, butterfly safari, fishing rodeos, even a couple of special days when you can actually swim in the waters at Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site in Warm Springs, Ga. (which are normally kept empty for preservation).

To find out details about all that and more, visit the new SouthernMamas.com Georgia State Parks Events page by clicking here. You can also find it listed as Georgia State Park Events on our home page left sidebar under Pages.