Free parks program dips into pond life

Insects and frogs. Dragonflies and turtles. They’re all waiting to be discovered at the “Frog Catching!” event from 10-11 a.m. Monday, June 15, 2026, at Farview Park, 6257 138^th Ave. in Laketown Township.

The free event is led by the Outdoor Discovery Center and sponsored by the Laketown Township Parks and Recreation Commission.

Collection tubs and dip nets are provided. Wear old shoes or boots that are good for getting wet. No sandals or bare feet.

All ages welcome. Guardians stay with the class.

Registration is not required but appreciated by clicking here.

The event is at the little pond on the 87-acre park property. The ephemeral pond is a short walk from the parking lot. There is a portable restroom on site.

For more about last year’s event, click here.

For a video of the 2025 event, click here.

The township and Outdoor Discovery Center have been working together since 2006. The Outdoor Discovery Center Network, 4214 56^th St., is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that strives to advance outdoor education and conservation in West Michigan.

Other events

Upcoming events include:

June 22, 10-11 a.m.: Tales and Trails, Wolters Woods Park, 6281 147^th Ave. Enjoy a story time with a naturalist and amazing ambassador animals up close. Afterward, take a short hike to discover plants and critters hiding in the wild. Dress to be outside the entire time. For ages 7 and under. Guardians stay with the class. For more information, click here.

July 7, 5:30-7 p.m.: Family Kayaking, Gilligan Lake, 66^th Street between 142^nd and 144^th avenues. Registration required. First time paddlers will enjoy the casual exploration of Gilligan Lake from single or double kayaks. Look for wildlife including birds, reptiles and amphibians with a naturalist guide. Personal water bottle recommended. Paddlers must be at least 8 years old to use a boat on their own. A limited number of double kayaks are available. All equipment provided. For ages 8 and up. For more information, click here.

July 13, 11 a.m. to noon: Blueberry Fields Forever, Huyser Farm Park, 4188 64^th St. Learn about blueberries and how they have become a West Michigan industry. Bring collection buckets to take home some free blueberries from the u-pick, organic blueberry patch. Sturdy shoes and insect repellent are encouraged. All ages welcome. Guardians stay with the class. For more information, click here.

Aug. 20, 10-11 a.m.: Incredible Insects, Shore Acres Park, 6602 138^th Ave. Hike the dune trails of Shore Acres Township Park and search for insects.  Join a naturalist and walk through the park with sweep nets, uncovering the hidden lives of these small animals. Get a closer look at their life cycles, habitats, and unique traits that make them extraordinary. All the materials provided. For ages 5 to 14. Guardians stay with the class. For more information, click here.

Sept. 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m.: Birds of Prey, Felt Mansion Garage. Get to know the Outdoor Discovery Center resident raptors – including hawks, owls, and falcons. See these magnificent birds up close, and explore their amazing features, from skulls and wings to talons and feathers. All ages welcome. Guardians stay with the class. For more information, click here.

Oct. 2, 7:30-8:30 p.m. Night Hike, Huyser Farm Park, 4188 64^th St., 6597 138^th Ave. Registration required. Step into the woods after dark for a night-time adventure. Use your senses to discover how much you can feel, hear, touch, and even see in the dark. For ages 6 and up. Guardians stay with the class. For more information, click here.