Weekend in the Parks: Kayaking, Bird-Watching, Campfires

Fairfax County parks offer lots of opportunities for fun and this weekend is no exception. Here are some of the events scheduled for this weekend, courtesy of Fairfax County:

SATURDAY

Sunrise Kayak Tour
Enjoy breathtaking views as the summer sun rises over the Potomac River at Riverbend Park. Paddle with a naturalist from 7 to 9 a.m. and learn about the historical and natural beauty of this island-dotted section of the Potomac. One and two-person sit-on-top kayaks are available. The cost is $59 per person. Register online. Download the Kayak Waiver and bring the completed form to the tour. For information, call 703-759-9018.

Campfire Saturdays: Bugs and Spiders
Use special bug habitat containers to collect bugs at Lake Accotink from 7:30 to 9 p.m. S’more ingredients provided. The cost is $6 per person. Register online. For information, call 703-569-3464.

Lizard Survey and Hike
Watch a short movie about native lizards and see our lizards up close at E.C. Lawrence Park from 10 to 11 a.m. Meet at Cabell’s Mill. The cost is $5. Register online. For information, call 703-631-0013.

Bird Watching for Beginners
Learn birding basics at Riverbend Park from 8 to 11 a.m. The cost is $15 per person. Register online. For information, call 703-759-9018.

SUNDAY

Intro to River Kayaking
This 30-minute introductory level course at Riverbend Park covers river hazards, water safety and paddling basics. The $28 fee includes equipment and half-day kayak rental (same day only). Classes start at 1 p.m. Register online. For information, call 703-759-9018.

Sundaes in the Park
Stroll along the paths around Hidden Oaks Nature Center and stop by the campfire area for an ice cream sundae. Sundaes are $2 each. This program is offered at 3 p.m. on 8/3 and 2 p.m. on 8/17 and 8/31. Register online. For information, call 703-941-1065.

Snake and Turtle Feeding
At least one snake, two turtles and a toad will be fed at Hidden Oaks Nature Center. This one-hour program starts at 3 p.m. on 8/8 and 2 p.m. on 8/31. The cost is $5 per person. Register online. For information, call 703-941-1065.

Hands-on History
Kids ages 4 to 10 travel back in time with a costumed interpreter to explore the lives of 19th century children at E.C. Lawrence Park from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $10 per child. Register online. For information, call 703-631-0013.