Interpretive Program

As part of a series of summer learning adventures, we will explore the showy lady slipper orchid, a plant of special concern. Learn about its habitat and what makes it special. Meet at the Nature Center, Lot 1, for a brief talk. Then we will head out to observe these beautiful flowers. All programs are […]

Join arborist and horticulturist Tom Wolfe as he shares his vast knowledge about trees and shrubs...everything from the anatomy of a tree, invasive species, to trees prevalent in our area. There will be plenty of time for questions. Weather permitting, we will spend some time in the woods. Meet in the Nature Center, Lot 1. […]

This is a drop-in interpretive program. Take on the role of paleontologist and answer these and other questions: What are fossils and what do they look like at Newport? How are fossils formed? Take part in a self-paced fossil scavenger hunt. Look for the table set up in the picnic area, Lot 3.  All programs […]

Hike along Europe Bay Trail and learn about the trees that make Newport State Park what it is. Join Dr. Bill Scheckler, past president of Newport Wilderness Society, as he shares his knowledge of 30 plus years hiking Newport’s 26 miles of trails. Meet at Lot 3. All programs are free, but a state park […]

Join search and rescue volunteer and retired fire chief Ken Foszcz as he shares his vast knowledge of navigation and orienteering. You will learn outdoor skills, how to read a topographical map and how to correctly use a compass. The discussion will start in the Nature Center (Lot 1) with outdoor activities to follow. All […]

Join Newport Naturalist Beth Bartoli as she explains all about the Monarch Butterfly's amazing life cycle. See the active nursery, if available, and learn about pollinator habitat. Meets in the Nature Center (park in Lot 1). All programs are free, but a state park admission sticker is required on all vehicles. Some programs are weather […]

Dave LaLuzerne was born with a green spark in his heart. (Interestingly, his last name is the French word for alfalfa.) Nurtured through pharmacy school and many years as an herbal pharmacist in his own herb shop, he now finds his passion is educating people about the numerous and wondrous ways to use herbs for […]

Join the park naturalist for this program about bats, a most unique and misunderstood mammal. Learn about the bats in Wisconsin, their lifecycle, and threats challenging the bat population. Meet in the Nature Center. Lot 1. All programs are free, but a state park admission sticker is required on all vehicles. Some programs are weather […]

You won’t want to miss this opportunity to learn about Door County’s only bird sanctuary. ODBS staff will be on hand with some of their resident birds for you to see up close and personal. Find out about the important work they are doing at the sanctuary.  Meets in the Nature Center. Park in Lot 1. […]

Arborist Donna Danielson will be leading a hike on the Sugarbush Trail, discussing tree identification, life cycles and shared history with humans. Learn as you hike on this easy 1-1/4 mile loop. Meet at Lot 4. All programs are free, but a state park admission sticker is required on all vehicles. Some programs are weather […]

Materials have been delivered for construction of the remaining 1,200' of elevated boardwalk along the Fern Trail. (We completed the first 600' between September and early December of 2022.) We expect the typical work day to be: gather in Lot 3 at 8:45am to be on the trail by about 9:00am; lunch at 1:00pm; a […]

Join local naturalists as they get out and enjoy a hike in the park's meadow. Learn about how it has evolved and how it is changing. Meet at Lot 1. All programs are free, but a state park admission sticker is required on all vehicles. Some programs are weather related, so check with the park […]

Head out with the park naturalist and explore the world of nature journaling. Everyone is welcome, no writing or drawing skills are necessary. This is a great way to connect with nature; to slow down and observe what is going on around you. Some materials provided or you can bring your own journal. Bring an […]

Hike along Europe Bay Trail and learn about the trees that make Newport State Park what it is. Join Dr. Bill Scheckler, past president of Newport Wilderness Society, as he shares his knowledge of 30 plus years hiking Newport’s 26 miles of trails. Meet at Lot 3. All programs are free, but a state park […]

Meet with park naturalist Beth Bartoli to learn to identify and avoid poison ivy. Meet by the gate at Lot 3. All programs are free, but a state park admission sticker is required on all vehicles. Some programs are weather related, so check with the park if you have any questions. Newport State Park, 475 […]

Join the Park Manager on this night hike. We’ll let our eyes adjust to the moonlight and hike the 1.75-mile Monarch Trail, watching and listening for the sights and sounds of the night. If needed, bring a flashlight or head lamp with a red lens. Meet at Lot 1. In case of rain, program will be cancelled. […]

Join Beth Bartoli, Newport's park naturalist, on a visit to the monarch nursery, seeing them at their various stages of growth. You will learn about their amazing life cycle and help release any monarchs that may be ready to go. Meet in the Nature Center (Lot 1). All programs are free, but a state park […]