Calendar
Great Parks' programming and events elevate outdoor experiences by providing opportunities for adventure to challenge, excite and build confidence; enrichment to inspire learning and creativity; wellness to promote physical and mental well-being and celebrate communities across Hamilton County. Discover a rich calendar of outdoor experiences at Great Parks of Hamilton County. Whether you’re looking for paddleboard yoga, native-plant gardening, children’s garden clubs, family storytime on the farm, or guided sunset hikes, there’s an adventure for every age. Filter events by location, activity type, or visitor group to easily plan a visit across scenic parks, lakes, gardens, and nature preserves. Many programs are free or low-cost, offering accessible ways to build confidence, wellness, creativity, and connection. Perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and community explorers seeking enriching, active time outdoors.
March 2026
Special Event
Signs of Spring
calendar_today Saturday, March 7
watch 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
group Adult, Child, Family
What to know
Enjoy the last moments of the calm winter season while searching for life on a 1.5-mile hike along the Gorge Trail. Binoculars, sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Cost: Free Age(s): All ages
Location: Sharon Woods | Sharon Center
Contesting Lessons
calendar_today Saturday, March 7
watch 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
group Adult, Child
What to know
These classes are for riders who have passed the Intermediate level and want to learn Western speed events like Barrel Racing, Pole Bending and Flags Race. The focus is on balanced position and excellent control at a walk, trot and canter gait. Contesting students are encouraged to enter the Farm & Equestrian Center’s Schooling Shows on their lesson horses!
Cost: $480 ($440 for Saturday session) Location: Winton Woods | Farm & Equestrian Center
Recurring:
Mondays, March 2-May 18 | 6:15 p.m.
Saturdays, March 7-May 23 | 9 a.m.
Entry Level Riding Lessons
calendar_today Saturday, March 7
watch 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
group Adult, Child, Family
What to know
At this introductory level of lessons, students may have enjoyed the occasional trail ride or had limited formal lesson experiences. They are introduced to independent control at a walk and trot gait.
Cost: $480 ($440 for Saturday session) ($400 for Sunday Session) Age(s): 7+
Location: Winton Woods | Farm & Equestrian Center
Recurring:
Mondays, March 2-May 18 | 6:15 p.m. (adults only)
Tuesdays, March 3-May 19 | 5 p.m.
Wednesdays, March 4-May 20 | 5 p.m.
Saturdays, March 7-May 23 | 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Sundays, March 8-May 17 | 1 p.m.
Volunteer Information Session at Sharon Woods
calendar_today Saturday, March 7
watch 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
group Adult, Teen
What to know
New volunteer information sessions are for individuals interested in our long-term volunteer program! Great Parks offers diverse service opportunities for teens (ages 14-17) and adults to develop conservation and educational skills in the outdoors, make a difference in their community and build lifelong friendships. From environmental education to golf course care, whatever your passions might be, you can find your home at Great Parks!
New volunteer information sessions are opportunities for the Volunteer Engagement Team to get to know you and for you to get to know Great Parks. In these sessions, we will give an overview of the volunteer program, review open volunteer roles and expectations and explain the next steps needed to get you started volunteering.
Information sessions are hosted in person at one of our park locations or virtually on Tuesday and Thursday evenings or Saturday mornings. Join us for an information session to learn more and meet fellow future volunteers!
Age(s): 14+
Location: Sharon Woods | Sharon Woods Training Center
Date & Time: March 7, April 4, May 30, June 27 | 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Spring Training for Backpacking | Winton Woods
calendar_today Saturday, March 7
watch 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
group Adult, Family
What to know
Ready for a backpacking adventure, but not sure you’re up for the challenge? Trek alongside certified instructors to prepare your mind and body for the backpacking season. Hike the trails with a weighted backpack while building community, strength and endurance. Sign up for the full series package and receive a Great Parks beanie!
Cost: $15 per hike, $75 for series package Age(s): Adults & children 14+
Dates & Location:
Feb. 21 | 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | Withrow Nature Preserve | 3.4 miles
Feb. 28 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Woodland Mound | 4.2 miles
March 7 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m. | Winton Woods | 4.5 miles
March 14 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Miami Whitewater Forest | 5.7 miles
March 21 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Shawnee Lookout | 6.4 miles