Located south of Savannah on the banks of the Ogeechee River, Fort McAllister state park showcases the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. 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.

A large picnic area offers river views and playgrounds. There’s also a nature trail.

SOLDIER PROGRAMS: Offered Tuesdays through Saturdays beginning at 1 p.m. Learn about the American Civil War, soldier life, medicine, infantry, weapons and more from staff historians.

Fort McAllister State Park
Park Hours: 7AM-10PM
Office and Museum Hours: 8AM-5PM
$5 parking. Annual passes available.
http://gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister
Historic Site Admission:
– $7.50 Adults
– $6.50 Seniors (62+)
– $4.50 Youth (6-17)
– $2.00 Child (under 6)
Group rates available with advance notice.

Summer kids’ events

*WEEKLY SOLDIER PROGRAMS: Offered Tuesdays through Saturdays beginning at 1 p.m. Learn about the American Civil War, soldier life, medicine, infantry, weapons and more from staff historians.

Rowe’s Guide to the Great Outdoors
Saturday, Aug 16, 2014 1 PM to 3 PM
If you’ve ever wanted to know more about almost every plant or animal on the Georgia Coast, then you’ll want to stop by for a 3 mile day hike on our trail with Master Naturalist Rowe. $5 in addition to the Parking fee $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Labor Day Festival
Saturday, Aug 30, 2014 9 AM to 4 PM
You deserve a little R&R for all your hard work, so gather the family up, kick back and enjoy yourselves at our Labor Day Festival! Visitors who wish to only use the Day Use outside of the fort will require a $5 ParkPass. Fort and museum visitors need to pay for admission at the museum when they arrive. $4.50-$7.50 912-727-2339.

“Incoming!” with Shuman’s Artillery
Saturday, Sep 13, 2014 10 AM to 3 PM
Civil War History Event: Listen and learn about the use of artillery in the Civil War with our local expert Eddie Shuman. From mortars to howitzers and more, Shuman’s talk on artillery will be a blast. Date and time subject to change. $4.50-$7.50 912-727-2339.

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.

As part of National Park Week 2014 (April 19 – 27), Fort Pulaski National Monument in Savannah will hold special Junior Ranger Day activities on Saturday, April 26 2014, starting at 10 AM

Participants at Fort Pulaski can earn a special Junior Ranger Day certificate and patch by participating in a variety of experiences to learn more about the National Park Service and Fort Pulaski National Monument. Activities will include historic weapons drills, like those conducted by the Civil War soldiers that once lived and worked at Fort Pulaski.

Children will be able to do special activity sheets to earn National Park Service Civil War trading cards and explore the park while completing the park Junior Ranger program and earning a Junior Ranger badge.

Saturday, April 26 – National Junior Ranger Day

10 AM Guided Fort Tour
11:30 AM Historic Weapon Demonstration
11:45 AM Junior Ranger Drill
1 PM Guided Fort Tour
1:30 PM Junior Ranger Coloring Activity
2:30 PM Historic Weapon Demonstration
2:45 PM Junior Ranger Drill

Fort Pulaski National Monument is on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah, www.nps.gov/fopu  tel (912) 786-5787.

Sunday, April 27, 2014
5 to 7 pm

At the usual height of the strawberry-picking season, join Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens in Savannah for this 20th annual traditional Sunday supper at the Lakeside Pavilion.

The meal culminates with a fresh strawberry shortcake dessert from fruits harvested from the field at CGBG. This year’s supper is by Chef Nick Mueller. Silent auction tables offer a wide array of items, and all proceeds benefit the Friends of the Coastal Gardens — the non-profit supporter of the expansion efforts at the botanical gardens. Cost is $30 per person, $15 per child age 12 and under.

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens (Formerly The Bamboo Farm and Coastal Gardens), 2 Canebrake Road, Savannah, GA. 31419. Please enter the gate on US Hwy. 17. Please call 912-921-5460 for information, http://bamboo.caes.uga.edu/, On Facebook here

May 10: FREE Bike Rodeo

Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah will host an educational event for children to practice bike skills and learn how to safely navigate roads and traffic. Skidaway’s Bike Rodeo is in partnership with the Savannah Bicycle Campaign.

A bike rodeo is a fun, educational event for children to practice bike skills and learn how to safely navigate roads and traffic. Kids will tackle different stations, each with a different game or challenge. For example, riders might weave between traffic cones to practice balance skills or have a “slow race” where the last one across the finish line wins. Please remember, by Georgia law, all kids under 16 years of age must wear a helmet.

The event is May 10 from 10 am to 1 pm and is free with your $5 parking pass.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Cswy, Savannah , 31411 , http://gastateparks.org/SkidawayIsland

FOR MORE FREE SPRING 2014 KIDS’ EVENTS  IN THE SAVANNAH AREA, CLICK 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.

Fort King George Historic Site – Darien, Ga.

Fort King George is the oldest English fort remaining on Georgia’s coast. From 1721 until 1736, Fort King George was the southern outpost of the British Empire in North America. More info here.

Fort King George Historic Site, 302 McIntosh Rd SE, Darien , GA 31305, http://gastateparks.org/FortKingGeorge

Spring 2014 family events at Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah

Marsh Walk with Dr. Charlie Belin
Tuesday, March 25, 3 PM to 4 PM
Join one of the foremost experts in Marsh Ecology in the region as he leads a hike into the marsh surrounding Wormsloe and provides a fascinating look into the plant and animal life that call Wormsloe home. This is a fantastic way to welcome Spring back. Register in advance. Tour Begins at 10 AM. $4.50-$10 912-353-3023.

Hike to Battery Wimberly
Wednesday, March 26, 10 AM to 4 PM
Civil War History Event: Join Wormsloe’s Interpretive Rangers as they lead an educational hike to the earthworks of Battery Wimberly. Explore some of the most pristine earthworks remaining in the South. Expect a few surprises along the way, including some of the soldiers who occupied the fort. $4.50 – $10 912-353-3023.

“Hidden Wormsloe” Tour
Thursday, March 27 to Friday, Mar 28, 2014 10 AM to 4 AM
Explore some of the places unavailable to the public and interesting sites that most will never see. This tour will be conducted by golf cart and seating is limited so make your reservation now to secure a seat. Three tours beginning at 10:00am, 1:00pm, and 3:30pm. $4.50-$10 912-353-3023.

Marsh Walk with Dr. Charlie Belin
Saturday, March 29, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Wormsloe Historic Site – Savannah, GA
Join one of the foremost experts in Marsh Ecology in the region as he leads a hike into the marsh surrounding Wormsloe and provides a fascinating look into the plant and animal life that call Wormsloe home. This is a fantastic way to welcome Spring back. Register in advance. Come prepared to get muddy. $4.50-$10 $5 parking. 912-353-3023.

Wormsloe Lantern Tours
Saturday, March 29, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Wormsloe Historic Site – Savannah, GA
Ever wanted to see Wormsloe at night? This is your chance to see Wormsloe in a whole new light. Guided tours by lantern take you to the Tabby Ruins where you will meet Noble Jones himself. The Colonial life area will be aglow with a lively village celebrating the arrival of Spring. 912-353-3023.

African-American culture at Wormsloe
Friday, March 28, to Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m. to 4 AM
Wormsloe Historic Site – Savannah, GA
Guest historians tell the story of the African American history of Wormsloe. Discover the connection between Wormsloe and the small community of Pinpoint. Interpretive Rangers will be on hand to offer tours and answer questions as well. $10 Adults $9 Seniors $4.50 Youths 912-353-3023.

War of Jenkins’ Ear
Saturday, May 24, until Monday, May 26, 1 PM to 4 PM
Wormsloe will commemorate Georgia’s role in the 1739-1748 war between Britain and Spain. A brief presentation at the Visitor Center will be followed by a tour to the tabby ruins and then to Colonial Life for military drills, musket and cannon firings, and a reenactment. $10 adults $9 seniors/military. 912-353-3023.

For more information Wormsloe Historic Site, click here.

Wormsloe Historic Site, 7601 Skidaway Rd, Savannah , GA 31406, http://gastateparks.org/Wormsloe      

FREE Natural Resource Discovery Day and a FREE Photography Workshop are planned for Sat. March 8, 2014 @ the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge.

Bring the whole family for a free, educational, fun-filled day at the Savannah NWR Visitor Center. Start with a kids photography workshop from 8:30-10 AM, then stick around for their annual free Natural Resource Discovery Day event.

FREE Natural Resource Discover Day

Come join the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for some free, family fun at Savannah National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Visitor Center on Saturday, March 8, 2014 from 10am-4pm. Partnering with the Savannah Chapter of the National Wildlife Turkey Federation (NWTF), Georgia Southern University, Friends of the Savannah Coastal Refuges, University of Georgia -Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources and Marine Science Center, this year’s event will be loaded with fun, wildlife-related educational activities for all ages.

Have you ever wondered what a biologist, a wildland firefighter, an archaeologist, a forester or a refuge manager does on a national wildlife refuge? Well, this is your chance to learn! See how birds are banded (even band yourself!); learn about wildland fire with hands-on activities involving real fire equipment; try your luck at target shooting with a BB gun or bow, while learning about the refuge hunt program; gain a better understanding of the Fish and Wildlife Service’s role in protecting endangered species; learn why water management matters to wildlife on Savannah NWR, get close up with a variety of reptiles and much more. A special presentation on wilderness will be offered at 11am and 1pm.

FREE Kids Photography Class

In addition to Discovery Day activities, the Refuge will be conducting a photography workshop for children ages 16 and under. The workshop is intended to help young photographers learn more about photography using the natural environment of the refuge. The class will be held from 8:30-10am so participants will still be able to enjoy the Discovery Day activities. The class is free; however, reservations are required due to limited seating.

All activities will be at the Savannah NWR Visitor Center located at 694 Beech Hill Lane Hardeeville, SC (off U.S. 17, approximately 7 miles north of Savannah, GA and 7 miles south of Hardeeville, SC). For more information on this rain or shine event, call 843-784-2468 (for reservations on the photography workshop ask for Chris Cooley when you call).

May 10: FREE Bike Rodeo

Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah will host an educational event for children to practice bike skills and learn how to safely navigate roads and traffic. Skidaway’s Bike Rodeo is in partnership with the Savannah Bicycle Campaign.

A bike rodeo is a fun, educational event for children to practice bike skills and learn how to safely navigate roads and traffic. Kids will tackle different stations, each with a different game or challenge. For example, riders might weave between traffic cones to practice balance skills or have a “slow race” where the last one across the finish line wins. Please remember, by Georgia law, all kids under 16 years of age must wear a helmet.

The event is May 10 from 10 am to 1 pm and is free with your $5 parking pass.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Cswy, Savannah , 31411 ,  http://gastateparks.org/SkidawayIsland

The popular Junior Ranger summer camps at Skidaway Is. State Park in Savannah will be offered from 9-5 PM except Thursday, which will be 9am-9pm this upcoming Summer of 2014 with the option an 8:30 AM drop-off to help working parents (rather than previous camp hours of 9 AM-2 PM)

9 am-5 PM, except Thursday, which will be 9am-9pm
Ages 6-11

Summer 2014 Session options include:
June 2 -6, 2014
June 23-27 2014
July 14-18, 2014
July 28-Aug. 1 2014

Staff from Skidaway Island State Park will take kids on a week-long adventure into our natural and cultural heritage.

Join the park staff for a fun week full of hikes, crafts, games and more focused on the natural and cultural heritage of Georgia.  During the week your child will work to earn a Junior Ranger patch.

Registration is limited, call early to sign up.  $100. 912-598-2300.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, 31411

Now that Spring is almost, spend the day “playground hopping,” visiting some of our top picks for playgrounds in the Greater Savannah, Ga. area & Hilton Head Is./Beaufort, S.C. area or just picking one and spending the day there.

Here are our picks for the best playgrounds in Savannah, Hilton Head Is., Beaufort, S.C. To see our ENTIRE list of playgrounds (the best & the so-so), click here.

Forsyth Park
Two playgrounds with restrooms, café, spray pool, paved sidewalk for walking, biking. Pack a lunch (or eat at the café) & spend the day in this landmark, historic park. Check out the gated fragrant garden for the blind if it’s unlocked, the park fountains. Kids can dance to their heart’s content on the bandshell’s canopied stage. Toddler playground at Forsyth Park (next to the Visitors’ Center cafe) includes a rocking toucan
700 Drayton Street, Savannah 31401

Mother Mathilda Beasley Park:
Two playgrounds with new equipment, large grass-covered field, a baseball field, multi-purpose trail and dog park, picnic tables. Drawbacks include lack of shade & the beautiful new pavilion with restrooms is often locked & inaccessible.
500 E. Broad Street Savannah, 31401

Hull Park 
Playground, sheltered picnic area, spray pool, baseball field. A great, popular neighborhood playground with a merry-go-round perfect for playdates. Drawback: no restrooms and not a lot of shade.
55th St./Atlantic Avenue, Savannah 31405

Lake Mayer
Playground includes three climbing structures complete with climbing walls, tunnels; swing sets, baby swing sets, swivel seat, twirling toy, see-saw, mulch; picnic tables, two pavilions available for rent, tennis courts, lighted basketball courts, 1.5 jogging/bike paved trail with fitness course, lake, boat ramps, restrooms, baseball field, lighted hockey rink, dog exercise area.
1850 E. Montgomery Crossroads Savannah, 31406

Memorial Park Playground, behind Tybee Is. Library, Tybee Is.
Fenced playground, bath rooms, covered picnic area, faux pirate ship, see-saw whale rocker, climbing wall, swings.
405 Butler Ave., Tybee Island 31328

J.F. Gregory, Richmond Hill
Fenced playground, picnic tables, restrooms, covered pavilions available for rent, 335 acre multi-use recreational area with a lake, walking trail, birding tower, and two restored Henry Ford era homes.
521 Cedar St, Richmond Hill, 31324

Tom Triplett Park, Pooler
Playground, two Pavilions available for rent, conference room available for rent, tennis courts, lake, 1.5 jogging/bike paved track with fitness course, restrooms, dog exercise, disc golf course
Tom Triplett Rd Pooler, 31322

West Chatham YMCA playground
Chatham County’s first play facility compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and features a music station, a tractor, a climbing wall and therapeutic swings for special-needs kids.
off Pooler Parkway between the YMCA and Pooler’s new municipal recreation complex

Hilton Head Is/Beaufort, S.C.

Gregg Russell Playground in Harbour Town, Hilton Head Is.
The Gregg Russell Playground at Harbour Town is one of the top playgrounds in our area.
Fenced, somewhat shaded playground that includes a treehouse; swings; numerous slides; lots of climbing bars, jungle gym bars, monkey bars. Just outside the fenced-playground is a water fountain; picnic tables; bathrooms; and plenty of spots for lunch, drinks or coffee and of course, the famous Harbour Town lighthouse which is open to climb for a fee plus $5 Sea Pines gate fee.
Harbour Town, Hilton Head, SC 29928

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park Playground, Beaufort, S.C.
Playground with hardwood mulch, restrooms a stage for performances, a pavilion for displays and a grassed amphitheater for picnicking, frisbee or simple relaxing. Kids can watch fishermen showing their skills on the dock in front of the playground
1010 Bay Street, Beaufort, S.C. 29902

Pigeon Point Park playground, Beaufort, S.C.
Age appropriate playground equipment that includes merry-go-around, restrooms, picnic tables, water fountains, age appropriate playground equipment, large oak trees that provide shade
Pigeon Point Road Beaufort, SC 29902

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ ACTIVITIES, CLICK HERE.

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during February 2014 & free birding programs during the Great Backyard Birdwatch Feb. 14-17.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during February 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.

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during February 2014 including on Monday Feb. 17 Presidents’ Day & free birding programs during the Great Backyard Birdwatch Feb. 14-17. To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during February 2014, click here.

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

Great Backyard Bird Count at Fort Pulaski National Monument during FREE Admission Wknd

Bird watchers of all ages are invited to participate in the 2014 Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) at Fort Pulaski National Monument from Sat. Feb 15 to Mon. Feb 17, 2014. Free admission to the park on these dates in honor of Presidents Day weekend. 

Anyone from novice to expert bird watchers can take part in this annual event. No registration is needed. Bird checklists can be picked up at the Fort Pulaski Visitor Center. To participate, plan to count birds for at least 15 minutes on at least one day of the count. You can count birds on as many days as you like. Just complete a separate checklist for each new day. When you’re finished, enter your list online at www.BirdCount.org . All numbers will be tabulated for the park’s annual bird count.

For more information: http://www.nps.gov/fopu/naturescience/the-great-backyard-bird-count.htm

Bird watch with professional birders during FREE admission day 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 first program of this collaboration will be on Sat. Feb 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.  

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.

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

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

We love this! Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah will participate in the 2014 Great Backyard Bird Count on February 14 through 17 2014.

All that weekend the park will have special bird programs and guided hikes. They’ll be counting birds on the hikes as well as counting at the Interpretive Center bird feeders.

Stop by for 15 minutes or all day to participate. Stay tuned for program specifics. Note that although it is a Monday, the Interpretive Center will be open February 17 because it is President’s Day.

The park always has binoculars and bird identification books in the Interpretive Center’s bird room. So even if you cannot make this special event, you can always check out our latest bird visitors.

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

For more free kids nature events at Skidaway Island State Park, click here.

Skidaway Is. State Park , 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, 31411

Don’t miss the FREE winter family stargazing event @ Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens (formerly called The Bamboo Farm and Coastal Gardens ) in Savannah: Gazing in the Garden!

The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens in conjunction with the Oglethorpe Astronomical Association invite you to a night of stargazing in the Garden. Saturday March 8 2014 6:30 PM. Telescopes will be set up for observation, but you are welcome to bring your own. Free & open to the public.

Before the star-gazing, you’re also invited to a free showing of a classic 1950s sci-fi movie in the Annex. Be prepared for less-than-ideal acting and effects in the movie, but know telescope views of the rising moon and stars await you on the Great Lawn.

Once the sun sets, join the group on the Great Lawn to view the waxing gibbous moon and other celestial entities! Dress for the weather, and feel free to bring a lawn chair, hot cocoa/coffee as you gaze upward with the help of telescopes set up by the Association. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited

Free and open to the public. This is a great family event!

Here’s a list of children’s books on astronomy:

“Night Sky Atlas” by Robin Seagell
“Astronomy” by Kristen Lippincott
“Black Holes & Other Space Oddities” by Alex Barnett
“Space” by Simon Holland
“The Solar System: An A-Z Guide” by Christina Wilsdon
“Cosmic Light Shows” by Bobbie Kalman & April Fast
“Find the Constellations” by H.A. Rey
“The Stars: A New Way to See Them” by H.A. Rey

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens (Formerly The Bamboo Farm and Coastal Gardens), 2 Canebrake Road, Savannah, GA. 31419. Please enter the gate on US Hwy. 17. Please call 912-921-5460 for information, http://bamboo.caes.uga.edu/, On Facebook here

(Note: “Night Skies – Telescopes at the Tybee Pier and Pavilion” are hosted on the second Friday of each month by the Oglethorpe Astronomical Association at sunset. View the night sky through high-powered telescopes, weather permitting. Free. (912) 401-8634 or e-mail oaadir@kwbell.net.)

We love this idea for a Valentine’s event: Valentines Under Venus Stargazing Party @ Fort McAllister Historic Park, Richmond Hill,

Friday, Feb 14, 2014 7 PM to 8 PM

Enjoy a night beneath the moon and stars as we learn and solve the secrets of space with Ms. Mullenax, Professor of Astronomy and Physics at AASU. Bring a blanket and a picnic dinner to eat under the stars. Alcohol is prohibited.

Bring your telescope or look through one of the ones provided.  It will be a full moon that evening.

$7 per person $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Location:
Fort McAllister Historic Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, 31324

More information here.

Toy Chest Cannons & More @ Fort McAllister Historic Park, Richmond Hill
Now until Fri. Jan 31, 2014 8 AM to 5 PM

Civil War History Event: Come see Fort McAlister Museum’s Monthly Exhibit and display of miniature cannons from the Civil War and more. Gain a new perspective of the weapons that kept McAllister safe from Sea. Historic Site Admission Rates: – $6.50 Adults – $6.00 Seniors (62+) – $3.75 Youth (6-17) – $1.00 Child (under 6) Group rates available with advance notice. 912-727-2339.

Talley Talk on Toy Chest Cannons & More, @ Fort McAllister Historic Park, Richmond Hill
Sat. Jan 18, 2014 11 AM to 12 PM

Civil War History Event: On the 18th of January, Ranger Talley Kirkland will be standing by to give a talk on the display of miniature cannons and the purpose of their bigger cousins, and the roles they played in the Civil War. Historic Site Admission Rates: – $6.50 Adults – $6.00 Seniors (62+) – $3.75 Youth (6-17) – $1.00 Child (under 6) Group rates available with advance notice. 912-727-2339.

Fort McAllister Historic Park, 3894 Fort McAllister Road, Richmond Hill , GA 31324, http://gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister

FREE Entrance to Fort Pulaski National Monument  on Sept. 27 2014 .

Fort Pulaski National Monument is one of nearly 400 national parks across the country where the park entrance fees will be waived.

More information on free entrance days in the National Parks can be found at www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm  .

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

JUNIOR PARK RANGERS

When you take kids to tour national parks, you never know how much they are getting out of the visit. Especially for those of us moms who aren’t exactly history experts.

Which is why you need to pick up the Junior Ranger booklets at the visitor centers of national parks you visit. The Junior Ranger program kids engage more during the visits.

Junior Ranger booklets have activities about the national parks for ages 5-12. Junior ranger books are free to any visitor and usually are available at the visitors’ centers. Often, similar programs with more advanced activities are also available for older kids. Just ask at the site’s visitor center.

While doing the activities, children enjoy earning a badge and a certificate.

Various national parks that have Junior Ranger programs include:
*Fort Pulaski National Monument, on U.S. 80 en route to Tybee Island. Info on the Fort Pulaski Junior Program here.
*Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie national monuments, Charleston, S.C. Info on these forts Junior Ranger program here.
*Cumberland Island National Seashore, Ga. More info here.

Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah. Learn more at www.nps.gov/fopu and visit us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FortPulaskiNPS and Twitter www.twitter.com/FortPulaskiNPS.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY: Cannon Firings at Old Fort Jackson, 1 Fort Jackson Rd. $6.00 for adults, free for children under 6 with a guardian. 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. (912) 232-3945 or chsgeorgia.org.

SATURDAY FIRINGS AT FORT PULASKI & DAILY INTREPRETIVE PROGRAMS SUNDAY THROUGH FRIDAY: Fort Pulaski National Monument offers visitors and guests daily interpretive programs including guided fort tours ( 40-50 min.) and musket and soldier demonstrations (15-30 min). Cannon-firing demonstrations are on Saturdays. Schedules are subject to change. Click here for more info.

Starting September 1, 2013 Schedule is subject to change. Call ahead to confirm: (912) 786-5787

Sunday – Friday
10:30 AM  Guided Fort Tour OR Trail Walk
12:00 PM  Musket Firing
1:00  “Ranger’s Choice” (Subject of program varies)
2:00  Musket Firing
3:00  Guided Fort Tour

Saturday
10:00  Guided Fort Tour
11:00  Cannon Firing
12:00  Musket Firing
1:00 “Ranger’s Choice” (Subject of program varies)
2:00 Cannon Firing
3:00  Guided Fort Tour

JUNIOR PARK RANGERS

When you take kids to tour national parks, you never know how much they are getting out of the visit. Especially for those of us moms who aren’t exactly history experts.

Which is why you need to pick up the Junior Ranger booklets at the visitor centers of national parks you visit. The Junior Ranger program kids engage more during the visits.

Junior Ranger booklets have activities about the national parks for ages 5-12. Junior ranger books are free to any visitor and usually are available at the visitors’ centers. Often, similar programs with more advanced activities are also available for older kids. Just ask at the site’s visitor center.

While doing the activities, children enjoy earning a badge and a certificate.

Various national parks that have Junior Ranger programs include:
*Fort Pulaski National Monument, on U.S. 80 en route to Tybee Island. Info on the Fort Pulaski Junior Program here.
*Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie national monuments, Charleston, S.C. Info on these forts Junior Ranger program here.
*Cumberland Island National Seashore, Ga. More info here.

Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah. Learn more at www.nps.gov/fopu and visit us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FortPulaskiNPS and Twitter www.twitter.com/FortPulaskiNPS.

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during January & February 2014 including on Monday Feb. 17 Presidents’ Day . To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during January 2014, click here.

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

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

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during December & on New Year’s Day 2014 .  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  on Thursdays : Stories, games, and learning designed for 2-4 year olds. See upcoming times & themes here..

* Friday, December 20th: 6 to 8 PM: Luminary Night with Santa
Bring your children and pets for pictures with Santa. Enjoy a walk along our enchanted luminary trail and take a hayride around the park. Sip on hot chocolate while decorating cookies and making holiday crafts., $5 per picture, hayrides $2.

* Wednesday, January 1:
2:00PM Skidaway Island First Day Hike: 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.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during December 2013 & on New Year’s Day 2013, click here.

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