Nature journaling is a relaxing way of “thinking on paper” - paying closer attention to the complexity and beauty of the world around us. In this free program we’ll record observations of nature using drawings, diagrams, words, and numbers. No experience necessary. Must be 18+ years old. Free journaling materials provided. Bring your curiosity and […]

Please bring your cross country skis, headlamps, and meet at the Nuthole Cabin, located at the entrance to Ridge Camp for an evening candlelit interpretive cross country ski trip in the old growth forests within and surrounding our family campground.  If snow conditions aren’t good, we’ll snowshoe or hike instead. Hot chocolate and a cozy […]

Mushroom Cultivation 101 is a beginner-friendly course designed to meet the growing interest in mushroom cultivation. It covers everything from choosing the right mushroom genetics to preparing grain spawn and substrate, managing optimal growing conditions, composting, and exploring recommended resources. Perfect for beginners, gardeners, and sustainability enthusiasts, this comprehensive program offers clear instructions and practical […]

Clarion County is kicking off America’s 250th in January. As the birthplace of American democracy, Pennsylvania stands at the heart of our nation’s upcoming semiquincentennial. Since 2018, America250PA has been working to ensure this once-in-a-generation milestone is meaningful, inclusive, and deeply rooted in local communities across the Commonwealth. In 2026, that vision comes to life—county […]

Mushroom Cultivation 101 is a beginner-friendly course designed to meet the growing interest in mushroom cultivation. It covers everything from choosing the right mushroom genetics to preparing grain spawn and substrate, managing optimal growing conditions, composting, and exploring recommended resources. Perfect for beginners, gardeners, and sustainability enthusiasts, this comprehensive program offers clear instructions and practical […]

Dawn of Astronomy is a 45-minute show that traces the beginnings of astronomy in ancient Egypt and Britain. We will journey to the Pyramids of Egypt, the crumbling ziggurats of Babylon, and the mysterious Stonehenge. This show is free and open to everyone. Located in PennWest Clarion's Science and Technology Center on the 2nd floor.

Meet in Emlenton at the Allegheny River Trail trailhead on Main St. Exact coordinates are:  41.177399, -79.712401. Hike from Emlenton to the Rockland Tunnel and back. 6 miles total. Questions? Contact Susan Giering at lsigiering@gmail.com or 814-226-4679. All hikes meet at the trailhead parking lots, which can be found on the North Country Trail website […]

Come join us for a day of fun wintry activities along the picturesque National Wild & Scenic Clarion River within Cook Forest State Park.  Various activities will be held at the new River Pavilion by the playground on River Road approximately  1-mile up-river from the RT36 Cooksburg Bridge: 1130am - Chili Cook-Off (hot & mild divisions) […]

Please bring your binoculars and spotting scopes to the Park Office for a driving tour to otter hotspots along the National Wild & Scenic Clarion River. This is the prime time of the year to witness otter activity. Chances are good to observe otter sign such as slides, tracks, and latrines along the banks of […]

Cook Forest State Park will be conducting an interpretive cold weather kayaking trip on the National Wild & Scenic Clarion River.  Join the flotilla and celebrate the last days of winter on this 4-7 mile interpretive float. Bald eagles, river otter, mink, and mergansers have been known to make an appearance. Cost is $40/boat (bring […]

Returning by popular demand for the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day weekend celebration, the Lowry family and superb Celtic Band CARNIVAL OF SOULS will sound the call for the Irish. Leprechaun magic will abound with the call of the highland bagpipes and all those lucky enough to be Irish – and those hopefuls who wish they were Irish – […]

Please bring your binoculars and spotting scopes to the Park Office for a driving tour to eagle hotspots along the National Wild & Scenic Clarion River.  This is the prime time of the year to view bald eagles on their nests and find new nesting sites. Expect a long car-pool and aggressive hike to some […]