Cowans Gap State Park has announced its October 2026 program schedule, featuring hikes, fishing activities, educational programs and seasonal events.
The schedule includes:
- Fall Overlook Hike: Oct. 6 at 1 p.m. The hike begins at the amphitheater and will cover about two miles.
- Family Fishing for Beginners: Oct. 9 at 10 a.m. Fishing equipment will be available for participants who do not have their own. Registration is required.
- Art in the Park: Oct. 10 at 11 a.m. Barbara Randall will lead a landscape painting program at the Nature Center. The cost is $35, and registration is required.
- Campsite Decorating Contest: Oct. 16 and 17. Judging and the announcement of winners will take place Saturday evening.
- Backyard Bass Casting: Oct. 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. The beginner program will be held at the field in front of the volleyball nets.
- Fall Heritage Day: Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Activities will include archery, environmental and historical learning displays, apple cider making, ice cream, games and crafts.
- Open House: Oct. 17 from 3 to 5 p.m. Visitors can meet park and wildlife staff at the Nature Center.
- Campground Trick-or-Treat: Oct. 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. in Campground A and B. Campers are encouraged to bring candy to share.
- Fall Birding: Oct. 20 at 9 a.m. The program will include a morning hike around the Lakeside Trail. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars.
- Volunteer Workday: Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to noon. Projects may include trash cleanup, trail maintenance and weeding.
- “WHO Goes There?”: Oct. 29 at 2 p.m. The program will focus on identifying owls and listening for owl calls.
- Fall Foliage Hike: Oct. 31 at 11 a.m. The approximately four-mile hike will visit two overlooks. Registration is required.
Registration information and additional program details are available through the DCNR Calendar of Events.
Photo credits to Cowans Gap State Park
