Saluda Shoals Park Adventure Programs
The following species-specific programs can be tailor-made to suit any age. The programs have three components; a nature lesson, craft activity, and a guided nature walk. They are excellent for Birthday Parties, Scout Groups, and Preschools. The programs are also excellent for children with special needs since they offer a wide variety of hands-on experiences.
Mammals at the Park (ages 2 & up) Young explorers will learn just how special mammals are in the animal kingdom. Learning about the different mammals that call Saluda Shoals Park their home adds to the fun.
Bats (ages 8 & up) There are some pretty wacky old wives tales going around about bats. Come to Saluda Shoals Park and learn about this most misunderstood animal.
Birds at the Park (ages 5 & up) You hear them all over Saluda Shoals Park and they come in many shapes, colors and sizes. Discover some very interesting bird secrets.
Bugs! (ages 5 & up) Meet bugs up close and personal. Children will explore the meadow at the Park and catch insects with nets, just like scientists do. Check ’em out using magnifiers. They are amazing!
New! Charley’s Backyard Adventure Program Choose a Charley’s Backyard Birthday Party for your child! This party includes the beautiful book “Charley’s Columbia Backyard” as a gift for your child and a special “Charley” birthday cake. A ranger will share the book with the children and then together they will explore the park, finding some of Charley’s favorite places. Each child will receive a "Charley's Backyard Treasure Hunt Map" so that when the party is over they can complete the treasure hunt with their own family! Maximum party participants 15 – Complete Program Price $75.00 includes a book, ranger program, and cake (facility rental required)
Park Predators (ages 6 & up) They are reclusive. They move with graceful speed and they have extremely keen eyesight. Learn about these truly amazing animals and their special adaptations for survival.
Tale Time at the Park (ages 2 - 4) Capture the excitement and delight the imaginations of young children as we learn all about rabbits and their family life. Story time is always a favorite activity for young learners.
Turtles (ages 4 - 10) Sliders, Cooters and Box Turtles make Saluda Shoals Park their home. Learn about the secret lives of these ancient creatures.
Snakes! (ages 4 -10) There is always excitement when you say SNAKES! They are mysterious creatures that frighten many people, but they also protect us. Learn more about these awesome animals.
Spiders and their Webs (ages 6 & up) They are master engineers and their silk is stronger than steel! They are found just about everywhere on Earth. Let’s discover spiders together.
Owls (ages 6 & up) Owls can fly without a sound, hunt at night, and have excellent eyesight. Let’s learn more about these powerful nocturnal hunters.
Animal Tracks (ages 6 & up) Animals leave tracks everywhere! Locomotion is essential for animals’ survival. We will learn about the different forms of locomotion and make an animal track to take home.
Looking at Logs (ages 6 & up) Logs tell wonderful stories of trees lives. We will look at different trees. We will explore logs to see who could be living on, under or even inside logs. Learn how logs help the forest survive.
Leapers Creepers (ages 6 & up) Frogs, toads and salamanders all have extraordinary adaptations for survival. Explore where they live and check out how to survive if you were frog.
New Scavenger Hunts (ages 6 & up) Take your group on an adventure. Staff at Saluda Shoals Park will tailor make your group an exciting scavenger hunt. It can be specific to your locality at a shelter or encompass the entire park. Let’s get creative !!!
Rudy’s Junior Rangers (ages 6 & up) Become a Junior Park Ranger! Have fun as the Park Ranger leads your group through a few activities in the handbook. On completion of at least six activities you will earn a certificate and a Junior Park Ranger badge. An excellent program for birthday parties!
Orienteering Course
Saluda Shoals Park is now offering an orienteering course of medium difficulty for groups of up to 20 participants. Each group receives a brief period of instruction, orienteering coordinates, a compass and an orienteering sequence rubbing sheet. Participants can complete the course in about an hour.
Challenge Course Adventures
Bring you group out and try a component on the Real Team Challenge Course. This program is for both older children and adults. All challenges are lead by trained staff. Individual elements are perfect for scout groups, birthday parties and family reunions. Challenge options include The Mohawk Walk, Wild Woozey and the TP Shuffle.