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.
January 2026
Backpacking Skills Series | Campsite Selection
calendar_today Sunday, January 25
watch 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
group Adult, Family
What to know
From trip planning and gear selection to hygiene and nutrition, get prepared for a night in the wilderness with tips from certified backpacking instructors. Participants will walk away with new knowledge, professional advice and brand-new personal gear. Sign up for the full series package and receive a Great Parks beanie!
Cost: $23 per class, $115 for series package Age(s): Adults & children 12+
Location: Sharon Woods | Sharon Centre Auditorium
Dates & Topics:
Jan. 11 | Trip Planning & Gear
Jan. 18 | Navigation
Jan. 25 | Campsite Selection
Feb. 1 | Water & Hygiene
Feb. 8 | Nutrition & Stoves
Plant Removal at Withrow Nature Preserve
calendar_today Tuesday, January 27
watch 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
group Adult
What to know
Some plant species diminish biodiversity, outcompete native species, and threaten the ecosystem. Learn how to identify and properly treat aggressive plant species that could be present in your backyard while removing them along the Trout Lily Trail. This event runs from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Age(s): 14+
Location: Withrow Nature Preserve | Parking Lot | 7075 Five Mile Road, Cincinnati, OH 45230
VOLUNTEER EVENT
Tails on Trails
calendar_today Tuesday, January 27
watch 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
group Adult, Child, Family
What to know
A tail-wagging trek for our four-legged explorers! Leave the dog park behind and wander through wooded trails where every sniff is a new discovery. Expect muddy paws, happy tongues, and plenty of new friends—both canine and human. Walkers without dogs are welcome to join the fun! Dogs must remain leashed.
Cost: Free Age(s): All ages
Location: Otto Armleder Memorial Park | Dog Park
Wonders of Winter for Wee Ones
calendar_today Thursday, January 29
watch 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
What to know
Dive into nature’s fascinating mysteries with new hands-on activities each week, designed especially for preschool-age explorers. Find out what's happening in the winter woods, make a take-home craft and check out the Winter Woodland exhibit.
Cost: $7 Age(s): 3 - 5
Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve | Ellenwood Nature Barn
Recurring:
Dec. 11 | Migration
Dec. 18 | Bears
Jan. 8 | Snow
Jan. 15 | Winter Activity
Jan. 22 | Owls
Jan. 29 | Maple Sugaring
Tales of a Winter Woodland
calendar_today Friday, January 30
watch 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM
group Child
What to know
Take shelter from the cold inside the barn's cozy woodland scene. Dig into the wonders of winter through stories, songs and hands-on activities. For added fun, check out the Winter Woodland exhibit for self-guided games, puzzles and a scavenger hunt.
Cost: Free Age(s): 3 - 5
Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve | Ellenwood Nature Barn
Recurring: Dec. 12, Dec. 19. Jan. 2, Jan. 9, Jan. 16, Jan. 23, Jan. 30 | 10:30 a.m.