NPS John F. Mitchell

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.

2009 RESOURCE SEMINARS

Fees and Registration: FREE with your paid park entrance fee. Reservations are requested. Space is limited to 30 adults plus accompanying children. The seminars will be held from 11:00am to 1:00pm in the Massanutten Room at Big Meadows Lodge.

NPS Photo

How do you prepare for a hiking adventure with your children? What do you wear? What should you pack? What are the essentials for a fun and safe adventure? Here is your chance to learn from the experts. Join Jeff Alt, hiking expert and author of the award-winning A Walk for Sunshine along with park rangers for a fun and informative event to learn firsthand how families with children can experience nature together using the trails in Shenandoah National Park. Jeff will provide tips on essential gear, types of clothing, trip planning, food, hydration, safety and how to keep the kids entertained. This seminar will provide you with the knowledge and inspiration you need to plan a hiking/walking and/or camping outing with your children. Recommended for parents, teachers, and children of all ages, including toddlers. Come prepared for a short hike. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Two seminars are scheduled:

Sunday, June 14
(coincides with National Get Outdoors Day) and

Sunday, July 12, 2009. The seminars are free with paid park entrance fee but reservations are requested. The seminars will be held rain or shine.

Fees and Registration: $50 for one adult and child (5-15 years old), and $10 for each additional family member. Space is limited to 20 participants. Reservations are required.

John F. Mitchell

Family Camping Resource Seminar

Want to do something really special with your family in Shenandoah National Park? Spend the night under the stars camping! Learn from park rangers and camping experts how to pitch a tent, build a campfire, plan and prepare meals, explore nature with your children, and how to “Leave No Trace,” while creating memories to last a lifetime. No equipment? No camping experience? No problem! Tents, camping equipment, food, and instruction are provided at these fun and educational events. The seminars will be held rain or shine.

June 27 – 28, 2009
What better time to get outside than June, Great Outdoors Month? This overnight seminar coincides with the national Great American Backyard Campout, a national event that encourages individuals, youth, friends and families to camp out together for one night.

July 18-19, 2009
Join us for the second offering of this seminar in 2009. Gain hands-on experience in the basics of camping from setting up a tent to cooking smores on the campfire.

Fees and Registration: $30 per person. Space is limited to 20 participants. Reservations are required.