Family-oriented seminars appeal to those with children while other sessions cater to the interests of primarily adult audiences. All seminars involve a hands-on experience that creates a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the wonderful resources found in the park.

Reservations are required for all seminars and space is limited. A fee is charged for most seminars. The fee includes the Shenandoah National Park entrance fee and course instruction and materials.

Your registration is confirmed with receipt of payment. Refunds will be made for cancellations received 10 days prior to the seminar.

Resource Seminars are co-sponsored by the Shenandoah National Park Association and ARAMARK, and the National Parks Conservation Association.

For additional information:
email or (540) 999-3489

NPS Photo

Hey, parents! Have you ever wanted to go hiking with your children but worried about what to do to keep them interested, entertained, and safe? Here is your chance to learn from the experts. On National Trails Day, June 7, 2008, join Jeff Alt, noted author of A Walk for Sunshine, and park rangers to learn firsthand how to share nature with your children for a fun and safe outdoor adventure. Jeff will provide tips on how families with children ages 2 to 4 can experience nature together using the trails in Shenandoah National Park. The program is free with paid park entrance fee but reservations are required. The seminar will be held rain or shine. (back to table)

William B. Folsom

Zebra Swallowtail

Shenandoah National Park comes alive with a spectacular array of butterflies in mid-summer. Join us for this opportunity to learn how to “capture” butterflies with a camera from two amazing nature photographers. William B. Folsom and Joseph Rossbach, photography workshop leaders at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, will show you when, where and how to approach butterflies. They will provide technical tips for stunning results, whether you use a digital or film camera. In addition, Mary Willeford Bair, natural resource specialist with the National Park Service, will provide tips for identifying the most common butterflies found in this area. The workshop offers a mix of indoor programs and outdoor field practice. Lunch is included. Participants will need to provide their own camera. The seminar will be held rain or shine.
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John F. Mitchell

Family Camping Resource Seminar

Family Camping: The Basics of Family Camping
July 19-20, 2008
$50 for one adult and child (5-12 years old), $10 for each additional family member. Space is limited to 21 participants.

A camping trip to a national park has been a long-standing tradition for many American families. However, a lot of today’s busy parents have not had the opportunity to share a camping experience with their children. If you are one of those families who always wanted to learn how to camp but never had the time to learn, this is the program for you! Join us for a night under the stars in Shenandoah National Park. Gain hands-on experience in the basics of cooking, setting up a tent, and applying Leave No Trace techniques. Park rangers and volunteers will demonstrate camping gear and provide tips on how to have a fun and safe outdoor adventure with your children. Tents, cooking equipment, and food will be provided. The seminar will be held rain or shine. (back to table)