BEMIDJI — Here is a look at some upcoming events throughout July at Lake Bemidji State Park, 3401 State Park Road NE:
10 to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 3: The Story Tree Preschool Program.
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This nature story time is geared toward children ages 3 to 5, though all ages are welcome.
"Come sing a song, learn about the weather, guess what is in the magic basket, listen to a story, learn Ojibwe and do a fun craft," a release said.
After the program, children can explore the playground and nature play area, or play puppets, crawl in a life-sized beaver lodge, see live fish and more in the Visitor Center.
Adults must accompany children. Meet at the Amphitheater behind the Visitor Center. If it is cold or raining, the group will meet in the Visitor Center.
10 to 11:30 a.m., Friday, July 4: Bog Discovery: Naturalist on the Move.
"Ever wondered what in the world a bog is? Want to know when the showy lady's slippers and other orchids start blooming? Or did you know that there are plants that eat insects here in Minnesota?" the release asked. "Bring your questions and curiosity to the tranquil bog at the park and chat with the naturalist who will be strolling along the boardwalk."
This is a self-guided program. The gravel Bog Walk Trail is one mile one way, a two-mile total trip. Wear sturdy shoes for walking and bring water and a snack.
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2:30 to 3:30 p.m., Friday, July 4: Nature Discovery Table: Bat Secrets.
"Come on down to discover all kinds of cool nature objects," the release said. "Each week there will be a different theme to engage your senses and explore the natural world up close. This time, find out more about Minnesota's most misunderstood mammals, bats."
Stop by any time between 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Meet at the beginning of the trail to the Visitor Center. If it is raining, the table will be inside the Visitor Center.
9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, July 5: I Can Fish!
"Experience the fun of casting into the water and the excitement of a tug on the line," the release said. "These hands-on programs teach all the basics, from fish identification to casting. You and your family will be ready to begin a lifetime of memories on Minnesota’s lakes and streams."
The program will offer hands-on instruction from skilled anglers and is designed especially for first-time anglers. All equipment is provided and no experience is necessary.
The class is open to ages five and older. Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by a registered participant, parent or legal guardian.
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The cost to participate is $7 for adults and free for children under 12 (with a registered adult). Taxes are not included in the cost. Advance registration is required and is limited to 12 participants. To register, visit .
2 to 2:45 p.m., Saturday, July 5: Bald Eagles: Guardians of the Sky.
"Join us on an exciting journey as we uncover the secrets of the mighty bald eagle," the release said. "From their colossal nests to their incredible fishing talents, get ready for an encounter with these awe-inspiring birds. It's an adventure that will leave you soaring with newfound knowledge and appreciation for these magnificent creatures."
First, learn more about these special raptors by playing a trivia game with new questions, and then take a short walk to see the park's bald eagle nest up close and possibly see an eaglet.
The group will meet at the Amphitheater.
10 to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 10: The Story Tree Preschool Program.
See previous description.
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2:30 to 3:30 p.m., Friday, July 11: Nature Discovery Table: Outstanding Owls.
See previous description.
10 to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 17: The Story Tree Preschool Program.
See previous description.
2:30 to 3:30 p.m., Friday, July 18: Nature Discovery Table: Tracks and Scat.
See previous description.
9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, July 19: I Can Fish!
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See previous description.
2 to 3 p.m., Saturday, July 19: Pond Critters.
"Discover the fascinating aquatic life living in Bass Creek and the marina," the release said. "Get an up-close look at whirligig beetles, baby dragonflies, water boatmen and backswimmers. We may even find crayfish, leeches or turtles."
Stop by any time between 2 and 3 p.m. at the picnic tables by the marina on the opposite end of the main parking lot from the playground. Look for the blue “Program Today” flag.
2 to 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 23: Archery in the Parks.
Participants will receive hands-on instruction shooting a bow and arrow from certified instructors in a safe and supportive environment. The program is a family adventure with kid-friendly equipment designed for beginners ages 8 and older.
Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. All equipment is provided. Personal archery equipment is not allowed.
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Participants will be outside, so be prepared for standing in the sun. Bring along sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent and water.
The program will be canceled if it's raining. Meet in the west parking lot.
10 to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 24: The Story Tree Preschool Program.
See previous description.
2 to 2:30 p.m., Friday, July 25: Bemidji Children’s Community Theater Play.
Meet at the Amphitheater.
2:30 to 3:30 p.m., Friday, July 25: Nature Discovery Table: The Colors of Nature.
Join the Artists in Residence to explore the colors of nature with rocks, leaves and pinecones in the park and learn about the science behind the colors.
All ages welcome with grown-up support. Meet at the beginning of the trail to the Visitor Center. If it is raining, the table will be inside the Visitor Center.
10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, July 26: Nature Journaling.
Join the Artists in Residence to explore the art of nature journaling for relaxation, mindfulness, reflection and science. All supplies will be provided.
All skill levels and ages welcome with grown-up support. This is a drop-in event held at the Visitor Center.
2 to 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 26: Bemidji Children’s Community Theater Play.
Meet at the Amphitheater.
10 a.m. to noon, Sunday, July 27: Carnivorous Plant Puppets.
Join the Artists in Residence to explore the carnivorous plants that live in the bog. Artists will use puppets to show and explain the wonders of these unique bog plants.
Performances will occur at regular intervals for interested park guests. This is a drop-in event held at the end of the bog boardwalk by Big Bog Lake.
10 to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 31: The Story Tree Preschool Program.
See previous description.
Those who need accommodations should contact Christa at christa.drake@state.mn.us or (218) 308-2328 two weeks before the event.