We offer a variety of park programs for all ages – register for one today! Visit our
calendar of events, view our program
e-newsletter or
sign up here to receive our e-newsletters to keep up with what is happening in the parks.
Important Program Reminders:
- For Family Programs, every participant must be registered online in advance.
- "Walk ups" (those not registered online but show up) may not be able to participate in the program. Register early!
- Pets are not permitted at programs.
- If a program has a minimum age, children who do not meet the minimum will not be allowed to participate. Children who do meet the age requirement must have a parent or guardian with them in the program. Age limits are established for safety and program content.
Scroll down or select a program series below to learn more about our offerings:
Each person attending family programs must be registered through the online system. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Leap with the Frogs!
*This program is full but you may join the waiting list.
Saturday, Feb. 29
11 a.m.–noon
Free for all ages
Once every four years, we get an extra day in
the year – February 29! We’ll celebrate Leap Day by learning all about some of
our amphibian friends for whom every day is leap day – the frogs of Harris Lake
County Park! See some live frogs up close and play a fun active game that will
have you leapin’ for joy!
Meet at the Cypress Shelter.
Secretive Salamanders at Harris Lake County Park
Saturday, March 7
2–3 p.m.
Free for all ages
Harris Lake County Park is home to several species of salamanders. Join us as we learn about these elusive amphibians and see some up close.
Meet in the Educational Garden at the picnic tables.
Kids Discover Nature: A Tree is Nice
Tuesday, March 10
11 a.m.–noon
Free for ages 1–6 with accompanying adult (only the child is registered but the adult must attend)
As we celebrate NC Arbor Day this month, we
will learn how important trees are for us and wildlife. We
will read Janice May Udry’s A Tree is
Nice and walk around to look at different trees around the shelter. Dress for outdoor fun.
Meet at the Cypress Shelter.
Signs of Spring
Saturday, March 21
2–3 p.m.
Free for all ages
Spring is a magical time of year with birds returning,
wildflowers in bloom and wildlife enjoying the warmer weather. Join
us on a leisurely hike to discover what's new in nature. There should be some
great photo opportunities so bring your camera just in case! Meet at the platform in the Educational Garden.
Fishing for Beginners
Saturday, March 28
1:30–3 p.m.
Free for ages 7 and up (children must have a registered accompanying adult)
Learn about a cherished outdoor pastime. This program will
cover fishing basics such as how to prepare a rod and reel, bait a hook, cast
your line and how to handle the fish you catch. Fish identification and common
fish species that can be found in the pond will be discussed. Instruction will
be followed by an opportunity to fish in the pond. Fishing poles and bait will
be provided or you may bring your own.
Meet at the Fishing Pond (first gravel lot on your right after you enter the park).
Ages: 10 and up
Time: 1:30–3:30 p.m.
FREE, but all participants must be registered
through our online system.
Assist with our habitat box monitoring. Tasks will vary depending on what needs attention and may include: cleaning or repairing habitat boxes or installing new ones, monitoring our current boxes or assisting with other natural resource tasks.
Come prepared to learn and work – dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, bring work gloves and a water bottle.
Children ages 10–14 must have an adult registered with them.
Meet at the Cypress Shelter unless told otherwise.
Check out our public programs at the American Tobacco Trail!
To register for one of our public programs, click the Harris Lake icon next to the program to be taken to the registration page on our
online registration website, or use the button below to search for programs by location, age, date and more.
Internet Browser Issues?
Internet Explorer works best when registering or searching via our program calendar.
Questions?
The most common registration questions are answered on our
FAQ page.
If you still need further assistance after visiting that page or if you have a question about a program, please call the park office at 919-387-4342.
* * *
Interested in a private group program? Please note that you will still need to contact park staff by phone at 919-387-4344 or by email at
jackie.trickel@wakegov.com to schedule school field trips, birthday parties and other group programs.
Having trouble registering for a program online?
Contact the park office at 919-387-4342 or email us at