Clarksville, TN – Dunbar Cave State Natural Area has been a State Park since 1973. The cave and its surrounding 110 acres have considerable scenic, natural and historical significance. The entrance offered shelter to prehistoric Native Americans as far back as 10,000 years.
Dunbar Cave State Natural Area will present many nature programs this summer.
Upcoming events include: Fireflies, Bats, Canoeing Under The Stars, Night Hike, Backpacking Training (Part 1) and so much more!
All programs begin at the Visitor Center unless another site is listed.
*Dunbar Cave State Park reserves the right to cancel some programs in case of extreme heat or inclement weather.
Children must be accompanied by an adult (one adult for each three children). The age limits are definite – please do not sign up a child who is too young or too old for the program. Call 931.648.5526 for reservations.
Thursday, June 13th
Fireflies
Time: 8:00pm–9:15pm
Ages: All Ages
Lightning bugs, glowworms, little lanterns of the night. Join us for a program on these magical insects. If the show is really spectacular we will stay out even later, but if little ones need to get to bed you can leave at any time!
Reservations Required
Program Leader: Amy Atkins Wallace, Interpretive Specialist
Friday, June 14th
Backpacking Training (Part 1) *
Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm
Ages: 10 and Up
Have you ever wanted to go for an overnight backpacking trip but were worried about how to pack and prepare? Well then do we have the class for you? During part 1 of the training we will discuss what to pack and how to prepare for an overnight stay in the wild. Please come dressed and geared up as if we were leaving for the night. Training is for age s 10 and up but younger children may attend but not participate.
Reservations Required
Presented by: Shawn Settle, Seasonal Interpretive Ranger
Bats! *
Time: 7:00pm–8:30pm
Ages: 5 to adult
We will learn about bats and walk to the cave entrance to hopefully watch a few fly out of the cave and over the lake. We can’t guarantee we will see any, but we will try!
Reservations Required
Program Leader: Amy Atkins Wallace, Interpretive Specialist
Canoeing Under The Stars
Time: 7:30pm–9:30pm
Ages: 12 and Up
Come out and enjoy an evening of canoeing while we listen to our night animals and look up at the stars. Adults
please bring flashlights.
Reservations Required
Presented by: Shawn Settle, Seasonal Interpretive Ranger
Saturday, June 15th
Night Hike *
Time: 8:00pm–9:00pm
Ages: All Ages
Here’s your chance to be in the park past closing time. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and walk a mile as we
explore the woods and lakeshore for nocturnal critters such as owls, deer, frog, and raccoons.
Reservations Required
Program Leader: Adam Neblett, Park Ranger
June 13th-15th
How to Have an Enjoyable Day in a Canoe: Rowing Techniques and Safety *
Monday, June 10th
Time: 11:00am–1:00pm and 3:30pm–5:30pm
Thursday, June 13th
Time: 11:00am–1:00pm and 3:30pm–5:30pm
Friday, June 14th
Time: 2:00pm–4:00pm
Saturday, June 15th
Time: 3:30pm–5:30pm
Come and enjoy some time on the water at Swan Lake. This will be an informational program that will enable you to have a safe and enjoyable day floating on lakes or any of your local rivers. All ages welcome but under 12 must have an adult with them. See handout at visitor’s center for more information.
Reservations Required
Presented by: Shawn Settle, Seasonal Interpretive Ranger
