What’s Happening
Lo que está sucediendo
Help out, learn, build community and have fun!
¡Ayuda, aprende, construye una comunidad y diviértete!
Southwest Washington has so many opportunities to connect with nature. See the event calendar below for a wide range of opportunities with our regional partners.
Not seeing what you are looking for or want to schedule something special with a group? Contact the partner directly. Some information on this page may be out of date, so connect with the Partner for the most up to date information. Let’s get outside!
El suroeste de Washington ofrece muchísimas oportunidades para conectar con la naturaleza. Consulta el calendario de eventos para conocer la amplia gama de oportunidades con nuestros socios regionales.
¿No encuentra lo que busca o desea programar algo especial con un grupo? Ponte en contacto directamente con el socio. Es posible que parte de la información de esta página no esté actualizada; por ello, contacta con el socio para obtener la información más reciente. ¡Salgamos al aire libre!
Sort Event List by:
Accessible Supported | Adventure Sport | Agriculture | Art in Nature | Community Event | Elders | Healing | Hiking | Park Updates | Plants | Pollinators | Recreation | Road Trips | Sky Watch | Virtual Events | Volunteering | Water Fun | Wildlife | Workshops | Youth | FREE
LCNN is excited to share our Partner’s events, click each event for more detailed information - check with event host for most up to date information (LCNN does not lead these events).
NEW! For events that sound super fun but are just outside southwest Washington are listed as ROAD TRIPs.
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: National “Take a Hike” day
Ready to celebrate the National Take a Hike Day?
Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks. Find a trail near you!
Yes, the days are getting shorter and cooler, and getting outside isn't always easy during the week, but getting outside is rewarding. On National Take a Hike Day, we like to remind folks hiking can be simple—no heavy pack or rugged mountain required. You can enjoy the mental and physical health benefits of hiking right in your neighborhood. Grab a few essentials and head outside. A short stroll along a tree-lined street is a great way to celebrate National Take a Hike Day. Happy Hiking!
Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.
There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.
Annual passes are available for $40.
Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.
Learn more about:
Outdoor Solstice Activities in southwest WA:
Attend Community Events: Join the Summer Solstice Celebration at the O.O. Howard House on the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Celebrate the 2026 summer solstice in Vancouver, WA, by attending The Historic Trust's free celebration at O.O. Howard House (June 21, 5:30–8:30 PM), featuring yoga, poetry, and crafts.
Embrace Nature: Take a nature walk at Columbia Springs, or visit local parks to watch the longest sunset of the year.
Picnic and BBQ: Host a backyard barbecue or enjoy a sunset picnic along the Columbia River at Vancouver Waterfront Park.
Nearby Festivals: Attend the 103rd Annual Woodland Planters Days (typically held mid-June) in nearby Woodland for parades, carnival rides, and fireworks.
Creative Rituals: Make flower crowns, collect herbs, or create sun-inspired art to celebrate the season.
Water Activities: Take advantage of the long day by going fishing or spending time on the water.
Other options include exploring nature at Columbia Springs, watching the sunset at Waterfront Park, or visiting the nearby Woodland Planters Days festival.
(Not So) Scary Nature Day at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Nature Day exploring creepy, crawly critters at Columbia Springs.
This event is designed to be engaging for people of all ages – from preschool age kids to elementary, middle, and high school students, and adults. All ages and backgrounds are welcome. Just bring your curiosity and be prepared for some nature fun!
Columbia Springs is an environmental education nonprofit 501(c)(3) located on the Old Evergreen Highway in Vancouver, Washington. Our 100-acre urban natural site is an outdoor education center which offers events, programs, and workshops to teach people of all ages about stewardship and environmental science.
We are so excited to see you on our trails! Scroll down to view our interactive map or click here to download a printable brochure. Looking for information about accessibility? Check out this map from Hope Walks to know before you go!
Contact Information: Kristine Jacobs , events@columbiasprings.org , 360-882-0936 x 231
Autumn Stitching on the Farm workshop
Back by popular demand! Last winter’s stitching event was a delight, and we’re so thrilled to welcome Nicki Eybel back to the farm for some autumn stitching!
Gathered around the workshop table, participants will stitch an 8”x8” landscape with an autumn palette. Think sky, river and land (just like PN Farm!) We will spend the morning creating our backgrounds and practicing some stitches (new and/or familiar). In the afternoon we will add details to our background (sky…rain? Clouds? Sun?) River and land (trees, leaves etc) Your piece of art will be yours…abstract? Realistic? The instructor will provide examples.
All levels of stitcher welcome!
If you have a youngster in your life who is interested, please reach out to Abby at arts@pnfarm.com to discuss!
A materials fee of $5.00 is incorporated in your ticket.
Coffee, tea, water and light snacks will be provided. Participants should plan on bringing a water bottle, lunch, and any specific snacks needed.
Accessibility Note: This workshop takes place in an historic farmhouse that is not currently wheelchair accessible, as well as out on the landscape of a working farm. We will work to accommodate access however we can, but please email arts@pnfarm.com to confirm that the space will work for you before you commit to the workshop!
Full and partial scholarships available. Please email Abby for more information. Register HERE
About our teacher: Nicki Eybel is a newly retired early childhood educator. She is now an abstract mixed media collage artist, focused on stitching. As a member of the Columbia Fiber Arts Guild, she is active in the Handstitching Group and has enjoyed a daily stitching practice for the last 3 years. She has exhibited in local galleries and group shows. She earned her Stitching Badge as a Girl Scout long, long ago.
Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!
Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!
Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!
Upcoming Nature Days:
October 24, 2026 – Plant Technologies
November 21, 2026 – Fish
December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities
Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.
Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.
What ages is this event appropriate for?
All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!
Interested in Volunteering at this event?
Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!
Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
Explore federal Public Lands across the U.S. for free today!
In honor of President Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday, entrance fees are waived. Roosevelt was the "conservation president" who established much of the National Parks System, protecting over 230 million acres of public land, created five National Parks (like Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Mount Rainier), 18 National Monuments (like Devil's Tower and Muir Woods), and 51 bird sanctuaries, including the first National Wildlife Refuge at Pelican Island, making his birthday a day to honor his legacy of preserving America's natural heritage for future generations.
Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.
America the Beautiful Lands Pass
Frequent visitors, seniors, military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known as an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.
ROAD TRIP: Science on Tap - K9 Conservationists: Dogs Helping Wolf Research
K9 Conservationists: Dogs Helping Wolf Research
In the 1960s, biologists introduced wolves to Coronation Island in Alaska after deer overran it and decimated the forest understory. The wolves ate all the deer and, with nothing left to eat, starved. About 50 years later, the wolves of Pleasant Island Alaska found themselves in a similar situation: living on an island in the Pacific with no deer left to eat. The wolves of Pleasant Island, however, have not died out. Instead, they’ve broadened their palate to include sea otters.
What scientists don’t know is how widespread this surf-and-turf phenomenon is. How does the complex web of wolf, deer, sea otter, hundreds of islands and a massive logging industry interact?
In 2024, a rescued border collie named Barley joined the investigation. Employed with K9 Conservationists, Barley is a professional scat detection dog with three field seasons under his belt. With the “understudy” dogs Tooma, Niffler, and Skipper, they have located over 1,500 wolf scats across 25 islands. Back at OSU, Kayla Fratt works to extract the DNA of the wolves and their prey from the fecal samples. She then uses cutting-edge genetic techniques, lasers shot from airplanes, and an awful lot of math to tell the story of the Tongass National Forest through the bum of a wolf.
Bonus ending: This talk will conclude with a live demonstration from one of Kayla’s trained conservation detection dogs in the theater!!
More information about this and other events, as well as registration HERE.
Kayla Fratt is a PhD student at Oregon State University and a co-founder of K9 Conservationists. She has dedicated her life to training rescue dogs to help conservation biologists. Her research in Alaska is funded by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and her PhD studies are funded in part by the National Science Foundation.
Building Lasting Impact – Lessons from Nature Everywhere Communities - a Children & Nature Network workshop
Join the Children & Nature Network for an inspiring virtual conversation featuring community leaders who are transforming how their cities prioritize nature-based solutions for children and families.
Did you know that southwest Washington and the Lower Columbia Nature Network was selected as one of the Nature Everywhere Communities in 2021? With C&NN’s support, we developed the first SW WA Green Schoolyards Action Plan to help guide policies, capital projects, training and programs across SW WA.
And we were one in six communities across the country selected to evaluate our collective impact through C&NN’s Ripple Effect Mapping in late 2025? Read the specific LCNN impact report here as well as the broader report here.
While many communities recognize the need for nature-based solutions to address interconnected challenges—from climate resilience and pediatric mental health to physical activity—implementing a project is only the first step. Creating true, lasting impact requires shifting the underlying ways our organizations, policies, and local partnerships work together- in other words, systems change.
In this webinar, we bring together leaders from five successful Nature Everywhere Communities to share their “on-the-ground” experiences. Drawing on findings from our recent Ripple Effects Mapping evaluation, these leaders will discuss how they moved beyond one-off projects to build sustainable, long-term change.
What You’ll Learn:
Foundational Shifts for Lasting Change: Discover the 7 practical lessons communities are using to shift local systems, build capacity, and ensure nature access is equitable and enduring.
The Power of Connection: Learn how “backbone” organizations and strong network coordination can align daily efforts, secure resources, and sustain momentum.
The Speed of Trust: Hear firsthand how prioritizing relationships, fostering youth leadership, and co-designing with community members transforms power dynamics and builds long-term local ownership.
Nature as a Right: Explore how to frame nature access as a multi-benefit solution that advances existing community priorities, from climate action to public health.
Who Should Attend:
This session is designed for local nonprofit and community organization staff, city and municipal employees and leaders (especially parks & recreation, public works and sustainability departments), outdoor program leaders and educators, municipal planners, public health advocates and local funders who are looking to scale nature-based work. Whether you are an existing Nature Everywhere Community or exploring how to start a movement in your region, this webinar will provide actionable insights to help you build a greener, more equitable future for children.
Join us to see how, when communities move at the speed of trust, lasting transformation is entirely within reach.
Panelists:
Grace Parker, She/Her, Project Manager, Prescribe Outside
Jane Tesner Kleiner, She/Her, Program Manager, Lower Columbia Nature Network
Monica Brinkerhoff, She/Her, Associate Vice President, Early Childhood Education at United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona
Cynthia Walter, She/Her, Green Schoolyards Manager, Green Umbrella Climate Collaborative
Curry Rosato, She/Her, Program Manager & Education Leader, City of Boulder Open Space & Mountain Parks
Cedar Creek Grist Mill Apple Cedar Press Day
Join the Cedar Creek Grist Mill for Cornbread Day!
The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is a historical, water-powered, grain-grinding mill. Volunteers provide demonstrations and bags of fresh-milled flour and cornmeal to guests. Read more
Grist Mill Events: The Grist Mill hosts many free special events during the year — such as the popular cider press — and they all include some good eats! Take a look at our special event list.
What will you see at the mill? Our volunteers work the mill, answer questions about the old style milling process and welcome visitors from around the globe. School field trips and senior tours are scheduled for weekdays and the mill is open to visitors on weekends. You can watch the millers mill grain the way it was done in 1876, and take home a bag of fresh flour or cornmeal.
Washington & National State Parks Fee Free Day - Veteran’s Day
Explore Washington's & Federal Public Lands
This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.
This day celebrates Veteran’s Day, honoring all military veterans who have served in the Armed Forces, a day to thank living veterans for their service and sacrifices, distinct from Memorial Day which honors those who died in service. It originated as Armistice Day in 1919, marking the end of World War I, and was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to include all who served in any war or peacetime period.
The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.
Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:
Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026
Science on Tap: Archaeology of Ice Age Oregon
Archaeology of Ice Age Oregon
Imagine Oregon more than 12,000 years ago. The coastline stretched miles farther west, vast lakes filled today’s high desert, and megafauna like mammoths, giant ground sloths, and camels still roamed the land. People were raising families, sewing clothing with bone needles and thread, harvesting plants, caring for one another, and adapting to a rapidly changing world.
How do archaeologists uncover stories as old as the Ice Age? Join archaeologist Dr. Katelyn McDonough for a behind-the-scenes look at how researchers piece together the past using clues like stone tools, pollen, campfires, animal bones, microscopic plant remains, proteins preserved on tools, and even ancient poop. Hear some of archaeology’s biggest misconceptions and explore how discoveries at every scale—from molecules under a microscope to entire ancient landscapes—are transforming our understanding of the past.
This talk also explores what archaeology looks like today. Discover how archaeologists collaborate with Tribal Nations, geologists, paleoecologists, and many other specialists to better understand the past while respecting Indigenous histories and knowledge.
Why is central Oregon important for studying the Ice Age?
How can everyone help protect cultural heritage?
What do you do if you ever find an artifact?
Learn more about this and other upcoming events, as well as tickets HERE
Dr. Katelyn McDonough is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology, Curator of Great Basin Archaeology, and Affiliated Faculty in Native American and Indigenous Studies at the University of Oregon. She is passionate about teaching, food (past and present), exploring the microscopic world, and making archaeology more accessible for everyone.
Stormwater Partners Symposium of SW WA
Save the date! Stormwater Partners Symposium
More information coming soon. Check out https://www.stormwaterpartners.com/ for updates
Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!
Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!
Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!
Upcoming Nature Days:
November 21, 2026 – Fish
December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities
Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.
Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.
What ages is this event appropriate for?
All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!
Interested in Volunteering at this event?
Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: Green Friday
Ready to celebrate the Green Friday?
Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks. Find a trail near you!
Welcome to the holiday season. What better way to celebrate than to head out to one our your FAVORITE county parks for a walk with family and friends. See you there!
Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.
There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.
Annual passes are available for $40.
Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.
Learn more about:
Outdoor Solstice Activities in southwest WA:
Attend Community Events: Join the Summer Solstice Celebration at the O.O. Howard House on the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Celebrate the 2026 summer solstice in Vancouver, WA, by attending The Historic Trust's free celebration at O.O. Howard House (June 21, 5:30–8:30 PM), featuring yoga, poetry, and crafts.
Embrace Nature: Take a nature walk at Columbia Springs, or visit local parks to watch the longest sunset of the year.
Picnic and BBQ: Host a backyard barbecue or enjoy a sunset picnic along the Columbia River at Vancouver Waterfront Park.
Nearby Festivals: Attend the 103rd Annual Woodland Planters Days (typically held mid-June) in nearby Woodland for parades, carnival rides, and fireworks.
Creative Rituals: Make flower crowns, collect herbs, or create sun-inspired art to celebrate the season.
Water Activities: Take advantage of the long day by going fishing or spending time on the water.
Other options include exploring nature at Columbia Springs, watching the sunset at Waterfront Park, or visiting the nearby Woodland Planters Days festival.
Clark County Parks & Nature - Fee Free Day: International Volunteer Day
Ready to celebrate the International Volunteer Day?
Join Clark County Public Works Park & Nature team to enjoy FREE access to your regional parks. Find a trail near you!
Most of the year, the daily parking fees at these four parks is $5.
There is no charge for people who walk or bicycle into any of these four parks. Washington State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass holders are also exempt from parking fees. Click here for more information.
Annual passes are available for $40.
Learn more about Clark County regional park parking fees HERE.
Learn more about:
Outdoor Solstice Activities in southwest WA:
Attend Community Events: Join the Summer Solstice Celebration at the O.O. Howard House on the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Celebrate the 2026 summer solstice in Vancouver, WA, by attending The Historic Trust's free celebration at O.O. Howard House (June 21, 5:30–8:30 PM), featuring yoga, poetry, and crafts.
Embrace Nature: Take a nature walk at Columbia Springs, or visit local parks to watch the longest sunset of the year.
Picnic and BBQ: Host a backyard barbecue or enjoy a sunset picnic along the Columbia River at Vancouver Waterfront Park.
Nearby Festivals: Attend the 103rd Annual Woodland Planters Days (typically held mid-June) in nearby Woodland for parades, carnival rides, and fireworks.
Creative Rituals: Make flower crowns, collect herbs, or create sun-inspired art to celebrate the season.
Water Activities: Take advantage of the long day by going fishing or spending time on the water.
Other options include exploring nature at Columbia Springs, watching the sunset at Waterfront Park, or visiting the nearby Woodland Planters Days festival.
ROAD TRIP: Silver Falls State Park (OR) Winter Festival
Join Oregon State park staff, volunteers, and the Friends of SIlver Falls in a celebration of the winter season at Silver Falls. The festival will highlight the seasonal changes that can be seen in the winter.
Check back in November for more detailed information.
South Falls day-use area
Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!
Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!
Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!
December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities
Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.
Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.
What ages is this event appropriate for?
All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!
Interested in Volunteering at this event?
Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!
Pollinator Festival 2027
From Green Thumbs to Curious Minds—Everyone’s Invited!
Join the Vancouver Bee Project and community partners for a Free, Family-Friendly Celebration…the 2027 Pollinator Festival!
Pollinators are essential to our ecosystems—and they need our help! This festival is your chance to learn, celebrate, and take action to protect these amazing creatures while having fun with your community.
Community Connection: Discover the fascinating lives of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, and learn how to create habitats that help them thrive.
Fun for All Ages: Kids will love the crafts, games, and face painting, while adults can enjoy local vendor booths and expert-led talks.
Engaging Tours: Meet others who share your passion for nature and sustainability in a warm, welcoming atmosphere
The planning team is pulling together another great list of speakers, vendors and activities for all ages.
Stay tuned for more information but mark you calendar for this one of a kind event in the heart of Vancouver, WA!
2nd Annual Pepper Palooza at Flat Tack Farm
We will be celebrating all of the of the wonderful things that can be made with this fantastic crop.
Free guided farm tour at noon
Join in on hot sauce tasting, pepper roasting, as well as a live hot sauce demo.
We will be joined by local hot sauce producer Pepper Song, you will be able to taste all of their wonderful sauces and take a bottle, or case home with you!
Some of the peppers available at the event include but are not limited to: sweet peppers, poblano, green chili, scotch bonnet, ghost, scorpion and reapers. See you there!
Come out and get spicy with us!
ROAD TRIP: BirdhersPDX Birding Walk
birdherspdx: Saturday 10/10 Birding Walk at 🧡Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge🧡 9:30 am.
Birding walk for trans, non-binary, and women people.
Build awareness and connections with the world around you through the lens of bird watching.
All experience levels and ages encouraged!
All children welcome.
Bring your binoculars or borrow a pair of ours.
Bring your water, dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
Meet at the parking lot at SE 7th Ave and SE Sellwood Blvd. Facilities available in Sellwood Park. We’ll start down the unpaved JEH trail that descends a pretty steep grade down the bluff and then we’ll walk partially around the pond on the Bluff trail and back, between 1-2 miles at a slow pace, allow 2ish hours. Please be on time.
Short introductions to start and we’ll end with open community event announcements and/or requests. Bring your knowledge, questions and yourself, just as you are.
Affinity space for women, trans, and non-binary people.
Please DM or email any questions or accommodation needs.
📸: Spotted Towhee stunner
Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - World Mental Health Day
Explore Washington's outdoors
This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.
This day celebrates World Mental Health Day. World Mental Health Day is an international day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. Studies have shown that time spent outdoors, in nature, have positive effects on our mental and emotional health.
The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.
Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:
Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026
ROAD TRIP - Hood River Valley Harvest Festival
CELEBRATE THE bounty of fall in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge!
For over 40 years, the Hood River Valley Harvest Festival has brought together farm-fresh produce, artisan goods, local food and drink, and live entertainment for three days of autumn magic along the Hood River waterfront.
With family-friendly activities, kids’ play areas, and the breathtaking backdrop of the Gorge’s fall colors, it’s the perfect way to welcome the season.
Visit their web page for a full event schedule and more information HERE.
Riparian Pub Talk and Trivia
Join the Clark Conservation District staff and head out to Irrelevant Beer to learn about streamside habitats and play conservation-themed trivia, with a chance to win a gift card to our native plant sale!
Hear from our technical staff about why riparian zones are so vital in our county and learn about upcoming stewardship events, current funding opportunities, and our riparian project planning and species selection process.
Register HERE for this fun filled event!
Vancouver's Old Apple Tree Festival
Celebrate the Old Apple Tree Festival on the first Saturday of October at Old Apple Tree Park, located on Columbia Way just east of Interstate 5 Bridge.
The annual Old Apple Tree Festival is a celebration centered on the oldest living apple tree in the Northwest, planted at Fort Vancouver in 1826.
Providing fun, food, music, and history of Vancouver’s Old Apple Tree, the festival celebrates our community and its rich heritage. Throughout the day, Urban Forestry Commissioners give away cuttings from the Old Apple Tree; cuttings are limited and will be given out until they are gone.
This free, family-friendly event, features activities for children, food for sale, apple tastings and sales, live music, cider pressing and walking tours of Fort Vancouver Village, the Fort Vancouver Historic Orchard and the Land Bridge. Local musical groups will provide live music throughout the day.
The festival features community apple cider pressing. Bring your own apples and a clean container to catch your fresh cider, or purchase apples and a container at the event. Approximately 15 lbs of apples will make a quart of cider. Volunteers needed for the cider pressing station, contact Urban Forestry to learn more.
Learn more about the storied history of the Old Apple Tree
Contact: Urban Forestry at urbanforestry@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-8308
Downtown Longview Harvest Fest
Join the Downtowners for Harvest Fest on the first Saturday in October 2026.
Check back for details on location and planned events.
www.downtownlongview.com/event-details/downtown-longview-harvest-fest
BirdFest & Bluegrass Festival in Ridgefield
BirdFest and Bluegrass is the main event every year that the Friends of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge & the City of Ridgefield put on to bring awareness to Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, and all that it has to offer.
We celebrate the Sandhill Crane returning to the Refuge, a huge stately bird that is endangered in Washington State, and we celebrate everything the Refuge is and what it brings to the community. With endangered species, hundreds of migratory species, an auto tour route, photo blind, walking trails, habitat restoration programs, and so much more – there is a lot to celebrate, and a lot to learn.
We are uniquely fortunate to have the Refuge as a resource right in our own backyard, and by learning not only how to appreciate the beauty, but the necessity of it, you come one step closer to being able to support it.
Whether you head downtown to jam with bluegrass bands, shop, or do crafts, take a drive around the Refuge’s Auto Tour, or head to the Carty Unit for family crafts, guided hikes, or a walk on the trail- there is something for everyone, and lots to learn!
Visit the Friends web page for updates on schedules, performances and activities!
Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Event Schedule - Carty & River 'S' Units - Carty Unit Events, 28908 NW Main Avenue
9 AM – Opening Blessing with the Chinook Indian Nation
Join Sam Robinson, Vice-Chairman of the Chinook Indian Nation, and Friends Board Member, to bless and begin our festival.
9 AM – 2 PM –
Self-Guided Wander Walks provided by Ridgefield Community Library and the Friends of RNWR
Family Activities & Crafts
Create bird and nature-themed crafts
Pro Photo Supply Ridgefield Refuge & Fledgling Photo Contest Winner Display
Partner Party
Come on by the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Carty Unit and hang out with over 13 of the partners who make our Refuge work! From Washington Trails Association to Master Gardeners (Do their scavenger hunt and win a magnifying glass! While supplies last), and many more! Check out our Linktree for a complete list.
Ridgefield Refuge Art Contest
Our second annual art competition with the Ridgefield Art Association welcomes submissions of bird-themed artwork. Free to enter, with cash prizes for winners across four categories. Register before September 30, View and vote on the submissions on the Carty Unit, 9 AM – 2 PM! Please vote only once per age group.
Hikes Meet at the Carty Unit Trailhead by the flagpole.
9:15 AM – ASMP & Pro Photo Supply Photography Hike
Learn about nature and wildlife photography on a walk with ASMP and Pro Photo Supply on the Carty Unit’s Carty Lake Trail.
10 AM – Explore The Ridgefield NWR Through Nature Journaling
Learn new ways to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of the RNWR through nature journaling. Your journal will be your tool for exploration as we walk part of the Oaks to Wetland Trail. We’ll pause along the way to observe, sketch, and record the discoveries we make together, using journaling techniques to sharpen our attention to the world around us. Great class for kids 10 years or above and all adults. You will receive: a watercolor journal, a watercolor brush pen, and the paints necessary for your first journal entry. Registration Required.
10 AM – Family-Friendly Carty Trail Discoveries
Bring the whole family, and join a Refuge Naturalist on the Carty Lake Trail.
11 PM – Geology Hike with Jim Maul
Join local geologist Jim Maul for a guided hike that explores the geological history of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll learn about the massive glacial floods that carved out the landscape and shaped the Columbia River. Discover how this powerful natural event created the fertile wetlands and unique terrain we see today. It’s a fascinating look at the “bones” of the Refuge, perfect for anyone interested in the natural history of the area.
12 PM – Carty Lake Trail Nature Hike
Bring the whole family, and join a Refuge Naturalist on the Carty Lake Trail.
1 PM – Noticing Nature Hike for Families
Join Jessica Becker, author of the “little feet hiking” book series, to learn nature awareness skills and hike 1.4 miles on the Oaks to Wetland Trail to see what we notice. This hike is appropriate for walkers of all ages. Strollers and wheelchairs can join us for the first half mile of the hike. Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and your sense of wonder!
River ‘S’ Unit Events - 1071 S Hillhurst RD
9 AM – 1 PM – Vancouver Audubon Spotting Scopes
Join Vancouver Audubon for a free and easy birding experience on the River ‘S’ Unit Auto Tour. We’ll have spotting scopes set up just beyond the Hunt Gate to give you a close-up look at migrating and resident birds. Drive through the gate and park in the lot to the left. Stop by anytime between 9 AM and 1 PM to enjoy this unique viewing opportunity during BirdFest & Bluegrass!
9 AM & 11 AM – Vancouver Audubon Family Birding Hike on the Kiwa Trail
Meet at the Kiwa Trail Parking Lot and trailhead, approximately halfway through the Refuge Auto Tour, allow yourself time in case the Auto Tour is busy.
All Day – River S Unit Auto Tour & Kiwa Trail
Cedar Creek Grist Mill Cornbread Day
Join the Cedar Creek Grist Mill for Cornbread Day!
The Cedar Creek Grist Mill is a historical, water-powered, grain-grinding mill. Volunteers provide demonstrations and bags of fresh-milled flour and cornmeal to guests. Read more
Grist Mill Events: The Grist Mill hosts many free special events during the year — such as the popular cider press — and they all include some good eats! Take a look at our special event list.
What will you see at the mill? Our volunteers work the mill, answer questions about the old style milling process and welcome visitors from around the globe. School field trips and senior tours are scheduled for weekdays and the mill is open to visitors on weekends. You can watch the millers mill grain the way it was done in 1876, and take home a bag of fresh flour or cornmeal.
2026 Native Plant & Seed Library Opening Day w/VBP
Join the Vancouver Bee Project for the opening of our 2026 Native Plant & Seed Library
Stop by to pick up free native plants, seeds, and resources to help create habitat for native bees and other pollinators in your yard, patio, school, or community. Whether you're new to native plants or already growing a pollinator garden, everyone is welcome!
Help us put science into action and grow more native habitat throughout our community. Plants and seeds are available while supplies last.
Washington State Parks Fee Free Day - National Public Lands Day
Explore Washington's outdoors
This is a FEE FREE day! No Discover pass needed.
This day celebrates National Public Lands Day 2026. Since 1994, this annual event on the fourth Saturday of September has been the nation's largest single-day volunteer effort in parks.
The Washington State Discover Pass gives you unlimited access to millions of acres of unforgettable nature across Washington state. When you buy a Discover Pass, you help preserve and conserve our public lands for everyone—from the first-time visitor to the expert adventurer—and for the generations yet to come.
Learn more at these websites about where Discover Passes are required at other times throughout the year:
Fee Free Days for Washington Public Lands 2026
Meet author Michael Cairns “Under the Ash” - A Mt. St. Helen’s story
Can you imagine flying into the aftermath of the May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens?
This is your chance to hear Michael Cairns' firsthand account: As a Washington Army National Guard helicopter pilot, he flew numerous search, rescue, and recovery missions in the days following the eruption.
Michael will be sharing his experience of those high-stakes operations in a presentation based on his book, Under the Ash, featuring powerful (and previously unseen) images of the devastation he witnessed through his 35mm camera.
Grab a craft brew, hear incredible stories of bravery and survival, and connect with fellow volcano enthusiasts!
🗓 Date: Thursday, September 24, 2026
⏰ Time: 6:30 p.m. –8:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Heathen Brewing & Kitchen (2225 NE 119th St, Vancouver, WA)
🎟 Admission: $10
⚠️ Note: Presentation includes some graphic historical images.
Get your tickets online: see the linktr.ee 👆
Dragon boat racing for visually impaired
Join the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes for a Dragonboat Clinic - learn more at their Dragon Boat race team HERE.
All of the events are at no-cost for individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Contact NWABA for specific time and location information.
At NWABA, Everybody is an Athlete: they believe that any individual who is blind or visually impaired is an athlete and deserves the opportunity to participate in regular physical activity.
The programming is available for athletes of all ages and ability levels. Do you have a sport or activity that you want to get involved with or pick up again? We have a variety of sports available throughout the year.
For more information contact: Anneliese Hugo
Email: pdxvanprogramsteam@nwaba.org
Text: 360.448.7254
Call: 360.682.1662
On the Move: Incredible Animal Journeys @ WREC
Join educators from the City of Vancouver’s Water Resources Education Center to discover the incredible journeys animals make during late summer and early fall.
This FREE drop-in program takes place indoors and is designed for children ages 5–12 years old. Explore interactive activities that reveal how water connects the amazing migrations of birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and other wildlife.
No registration is required.
Drop-in anytime between 1 and 2 p.m.
All youth must be accompanied by an adult.
The Water Center is open the first and third Saturday of every month, from noon to 4 p.m.
Contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or call 360-487-7111 if you have any questions.
Bridge of the Gods 100 year anniversary celebration
Celebrate the Bridge of the Gods turning 100!
Cascade Locks Marine Park will have food, vendors, music, beer garden, fireworks, and Sternwheeler rides… fun for everyone!
Saturday, September 19, 2026 -12pm-8pm (ending with fireworks!)
Image description- local artist Paul Lanquist’s work shows the Bridge of the Gods crossing the Columbia River while a barge travels the river below and a train passes through the trees.
2026 Native Plant & Seed Library Opening Day w/VBP
Join the Vancouver Bee Project for the opening of our 2026 Native Plant & Seed Library
Stop by to pick up free native plants, seeds, and resources to help create habitat for native bees and other pollinators in your yard, patio, school, or community. Whether you're new to native plants or already growing a pollinator garden, everyone is welcome!
Help us put science into action and grow more native habitat throughout our community. Plants and seeds are available while supplies last.
WSU Extension Harvest Celebration
Clark County Master Gardeners
👩🏽🌾WSU Extension Master Gardener program trains volunteers to be effective community educators in gardening and environmental stewardship.🌱 campsite.bio/wsuclarkcomastergardener
Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery Open House & anniversary celebration
Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery holds an annual Open House each September for the public to view adult salmon, watch spawning, see adults jumping up the fish ladder, and learn the important role hatcheries play. Educational activities such as Migration Golf, fish printing, and chalk art are available to kids of all ages.
Vancouver Audubon's 3rd annual Migratory Bird Celebration
Fall migration is just around the corner which means it's almost time for Vancouver Audubon's 3rd annual Migratory Bird Celebration!
Every year tens of millions of birds migrate through Southwest Washington travelling thousands of miles as they make their way from their wintering grounds to nesting grounds and back again. Whether you're an avid birder or just looking for a free and family-friendly Saturday morning, we're inviting you to come join us as we celebrate these remarkable birds and their journey. Expect games, crafts, plenty of hands on fun, and experienced guides leading bird outings around Marine Park!
Admission: Free! All ages and all are welcome!
ROAD TRIP: 27th Annual Cape Kiwanda Longboard Classic (2026)
Mark your calendars for this year’s Cape Kiwanda Longboard Classic, September 18th-20th. Registration is filling up fast, but if you didn't manage to snag a spot, we encourage you to join the waitlist.
See you at the Classic! 🏄♂️
EOCF Battle Ground Garden Grand Opening
🌱 Join Educational Opportunities for Children & Families (EOCF) on Friday, to celebrate and tour EOCF's inaugural outdoor classroom and educational garden!
Located right next to our Battle Ground Early Learning Center, this new space will give our early learning scholars hands-on experience with nature, nutrition, and sustainability.
What to expect:
🍔 Free community BBQ
🏡 Tours of our new greenhouses
🌸 Interactive sensory play areas
🌱 Raised garden beds
📲 Please RSVP by September 9th HERE
We are thrilled to invite you to the grand opening of our primary garden at our Battle Ground Early Learning Center. We will be firing up the grill for a community BBQ to celebrate this exciting new outdoor learning initiative for children and families.
Explore the Garden Bring your family and friends to tour the grounds and see firsthand where our Head Start and ECEAP scholars will engage in hands-on learning that connects nature, nutrition, and early childhood education. The new space features:
Vibrant Growing Spaces: 3 fully-functioning greenhouses, 17 raised fruit and vegetable garden beds, and a perennial flower bed.
Outdoor Learning Facilities: Shaded gazebos, a sensory activity area, and dedicated spaces for physical and imaginative play.
Pacific NW Native Landscapes: A beautiful walking trail winding through local trees and native foliage designed for environmental education.
EOCF Mission in Action At EOCF, our mission is to connect, empower, and transform the lives of children and families in Southwest Washington. This garden provides true seed-to-table experiences, allowing scholars to actively participate in the growing cycle by planting seeds, nurturing them, and harvesting fresh foods to incorporate into classroom meals and our ongoing nutrition curriculum.
Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day - Constitution Day
Explore federal Public Lands across the U.S. for free today!
In honor of Constitution Day, entrance fees will be waived. Constitution Day and Citizenship Day is an American federal observance that recognizes the adoption of the United States Constitution and those who have become U.S. citizens. It is normally observed on September 17, the day in 1787 that delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.
America the Beautiful Lands Pass
Frequent visitors, seniors, military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known as an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.
ROAD TRIP: Vaux Swift Fall watch
If you haven't been keeping up with the Vaux's Swifts behaviors over the last couple of years, you might be surprised to know that Chapman Elementary isn't the largest roost anymore.
Instead, they seem to have split into smaller groups and scattered to various locations. Please come out and join us this year at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral located at 3131 NE Glisan St.
NO ALCOHOL will be permitted on the church campus.
Dress for the weather and consider packing a picnic for yourself.
The church was kind enough to allow us to use the space again and asked that we use street parking only if arriving by vehicle as they have an event ending at 6pm. Consider carpooling or using public transit.
Accessibility notes: There is a ramp entrance to the parking lot, which leads to the plaza from here: 45.5271512, -122.6325019
Trimet: Bus 19, Stop at Glisan & 32nd (Stop ID: 2109)
Nature Days at Columbia Springs: Fire, Fungi & Other Community Builders
Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!
Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!
Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!
Upcoming Nature Days:
September 12, 2026 – Fire, Fungi & Other Community Builders
October 24, 2026 – Plant Technologies
November 21, 2026 – Fish
December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities
Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.
Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.
What ages is this event appropriate for?
All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!
Interested in Volunteering at this event?
Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!
Birdhers Saturday birding walk
Join Birdhers for our Saturday birding walk 9/12 at 💛Powell Butte💛 9:30am
This location is more of a hike than most of our walks. We’ll start in a shaded large tree forest and hike up to the top open meadow. The 2 ish mile path is uneven dirt with elevation changes and may not be suitable for all.
Meet us at the Ellis Street Trailhead on SE 145th Ave.
Wear sturdy shoes and layers as we’ll be on shaded conifer forest and also sun exposed meadows.
Bring your binoculars if you have them, if not, borrow a pair of ours. We’ll look at nature, learn together and be comforted in the company of others.
~Don’t rush but please be on time.~
FREE, No RSVP, all children, ages and experience levels welcome!
Consider how you can practice reciprocity. Infinity space for women, trans, and non-binary people.
VAS BirdBlitz 2026 on iNaturalist
Team up with Vancouver Audubon Society as we seek to find and document all birds across Clark, Skamania, and Klickitat counties in the week leading up to the Migratory Bird Celebration!
Participate in community science by uploading your photos and recordings of birds to iNaturalist. Observations of birds in Clark, Skamania, and Klickitat Counties submitted by project members during the set time period are added to the project automatically!
Log In to iNaturalist or Create an Account if you don’t already have one.*
Join the Project - Click on the link or search “Vancouver Audubon BirdBlitz”
Add Observations using either the iNaturalist app or your desktop browser, upload birds.
(make sure to hit “Join” on the project page as well)
Don’t have time to find and upload observations? You can still participate by contributing identifications on observations from others!
*New to iNaturalist? Here’s a handy guide for Getting Started
CANCELLED! Science on Tap: How to think like a Volcano
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED BY THE ORGANIZER….Visit their web page for more information.
🌋When/how will a volcano erupt in the future?🌋
Say…Mount Baker (a very-high-threat volcano in Washington State)?
Volcanic eruptions are fueled by the magmas stored beneath the surface, so if we want to better prepare, we have to dig deep (literally). In this talk, we will explore “how to think like a volcano” by looking closely at how ‘magma factories’ operate.
When a magma cools and solidifies, it can form crystals that can sometimes preserve zones like the rings of a tree. Zoning patterns can therefore record the changing magmatic environment, including temperature changes, physical interactions between magmas, and time.
Using crystal cargo in erupted material, we will address:
What causes magmas to escape the crust and erupt on the surface?
How long does it take for magma to exit the crust?
Can we improve our “stopwatches” between the moment volcanic unrest is detected, and the moment we need to respond to an impending eruption?
We’ll take a close look at the Cascade volcanoes in our very own backyard, zooming in on the active Mount Baker in WA state.
Dr. Hannah Shamloo works at Central Washington University as an Assistant Professor where she has taught igneous petrology, geochemistry, volcanology, and science communication for the past 5 years. Her research is on both active and extinct volcanic systems in Washington state and beyond. She is originally from the Midwest where the corn is aplenty and the volcanoes nonexistent. She is currently loving her volcanic life in the PNW alongside her husband and mini blue heeler dog, Fuji.
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Join Science on Tap - Get Tickets HERE - @kigginstheatre in #vanwa
OutdoorAfro’s Little CampOut - virtual campfire storytelling
The campfire is coming home. 🔥🏕️
Join Outdoor Afro for the very first Little CampOut, a live virtual campfire experience where families from across the country can gather for an evening of stories, laughter, curiosity, and connection.
They're looking for engaging storytellers who can share a short, five-minute story that campers of all ages will enjoy. Whether it's a funny camping memory, a folktale, a piece of Black history, or an original story inspired by nature, we'd love to hear it. Selected storytellers will receive a special thank you gift for sharing their talents with our community.
✨ The first 50 households to register will also receive a special Outdoor Afro memento.
Visit this link to apply as a storyteller or to register your household 🔗 👆🏾
Celebrate National Park Week!
Join in celebrating America’s stories during National Park Week August 22-30, 2026!
Love national parks? There’s a holiday for that! Join the weeklong celebration of all things “national parks” happening August 22 to 30, 2026. Wrap up summer by coming out to explore nature and history, join ranger programs, earn your Junior Ranger badge, and more. Entrance fees are waived for US citizens and residents on August 25, 2026, for our 110th birthday.
Celebrate America’s Story
This year's National Park Week theme is “Celebrate America’s Story” in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Come visit where many of America’s important stories are shared—in our national parks. Make your own stories exploring stunning natural landscapes, reflecting on our nation's inspiring history and rich culture, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Share your national park stories on social media using #NationalParkWeek, #NationalJuniorRangerDay, and #NPSBirthday.
