Join park staff and partners to celebrate National Get Outdoors Day.  Participants will have the opportunity to attend two classes throughout the day.  Classes include Pontoon Boat Fishing, Forest Bathing, Kayak 101, and SUP 101.  Event is free and open to ages 18+.   Registration is required and space is limited.  First come, first served.  To register, contact Emily Borcz at eborcz@pa.gov or 724-932-3142 ext. 106. 

Class Descriptions

Let's GO Forest Bathing

Get Outdoors Day provides park visitors with the opportunity to explore healthy, active outdoor recreation. Come take a Forest Shower (shortened version of Forest Bathing) and learn about the numerous health benefits of walking in Penn’s Woods. Certified Forest Therapy Guide and Educator, Sue Schiemer will lead this leisurely walk on mostly level trails.

Pontoon Boat Fishing

Join Jared McGary, Park Naturalist and Fishing Skills Instructor, for an exciting boat fishing experience! We will be fishing small bays around the dam for panfish, catfish, and whatever is biting at the time. In case of inclement weather, we will be shore fishing instead.

Kayak 101

Casey McMillen is an American Canoe Association Certified Kayak Instructor.  In this entry-level kayak class, Casey will cover the basics of kayak safety, equipment, and paddle strokes.  Participants will have the opportunity to put these paddle skills to practice on the water.  Bring your own kayak and gear or borrow from the park.

SUP 101

Join Emily Borcz, Park Naturalist and Professional Stand Up Paddle Association Certified Paddleboard Instructor, and learn to stand up paddle (SUP).  Emily will go over the basics of SUP safety, equipment, and strokes.  Participants will enjoy an eco-paddle along the shoreline and protected coves of Pymatuning.  Bring your own board and gear or borrow from the park.

*Note:  Participants will be required to wear a properly-fitted life jacket at all times while on the water fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.