Calendar of Events

For Outdoor Fun, check out these workshops, nature programs, family activities and more!
For information or to register for events, phone 574-654-3155 or email bendixwoods@sjcparks.org.
All programs have a minimum and maximum registration number; register early!

  1. Sat Apr. 27

    Audubon Rummage Sale Shop through a barn full of treasures! This annual event is organized by the South Bend-Elkhart Audubon Society. Drop off your donated items at the Red Barn April 24-26 from 1 to 6 pm. Electronics or sofas not accepted. For more information, call 574-334-7761.

  2. Sat Apr. 27

    Hoosier Riverwatch Volunteer Water Monitor Training Become certified to monitor a stream and submit data to the state database. This training is open to all adults, and can be especially useful for educators. Gain experience with chemical testing kits and aquatic insect identification. Please attend both sessions. Registration is required by April 22. Part 2 is May 4. Both classes required. For more information, go to hoosierriverwatch.com

  3. Wed May 1

    Blooming Wildflower Stroll Enjoy an evening at the Nature Preserve as we hike the trails with a park naturalist and observe nature's fleeting display of woodland wildflowers in bloom. Registration is required by April 30. Look for trillium, celandine poppy, anemone, Dutchman's breeches and more!

  4. Thu May 2 - Thu May 30

    Tails on the Trails This five-week pet-friendly walking series is designed to promote healthy living by allowing you and your furry friend to explore the trails of St. Patrick's County Park. Pets must be on a 6-foot leash.

  5. Thu May 2

    Science at Sunset: The Deer Mouse - Portrait of a Misunderstood Mammal Small mammals play important roles in forested ecosystems, both as prey to larger species and as seed predators. Join Dr. Michael J. Cramer, Notre Dame Dept. of Biological Sciences, in this adult-only program to learn how these animals affect life in the forest. Light snacks will be provided. Bring Your Own Beverage (no glass containers, please.) Registration is required by April 29. Taking place at ND-LEEF. If weather is inclement this program will be held in the Brown Barn.

  6. Sat May 4

    Breakfast with the Eagles ND-LEEF-Morrison Family Pavilion. Learn about the natural history of bald eagles, their recent comeback and how they became one of our national symbols. Following the presentation, spotting scopes and binoculars will be available to view the eagle nest. A light breakfast snack and beverages will be served. Program content will be geared for participants 10 years and older. Registration and payment are required by May 1.

  1. Sat May 4

    Indiana Humanities Campfire Program Northern Indiana is dotted with kettle lakes, buttonbush swamps and marshes. We'll walk the trails and boardwalks of this watery nature preserve, observing how spring arrives to renew plants, animals and people alike. To register for this program, please got o https://spicerlakecampfire.eventbrite.com.

  2. Sun May 5

    Beginner Canoe and Kayak Lessons Start the season off right! Join certified instructor Ted Beatty for an on-the-water class that will focus on fundamentals, safety, loading/unloading and transporting your canoe/kayak. Fee includes gate fee and use of equipment including life jackets. Registration and payment are required by May 2.

  3. Thu May 9

    Women Experience the Outdoors: Women and Warblers Part 1: (Indoors) During the first session of this two-part series, learn how to identify birds, discover interesting facts and find out their preferred habitat. Part 2: (Outdoors) Bendix Woods County Park: Runnels Shelter Enjoy a light breakfast snack; then spend the morning birding in the Nature Preserve. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes for hiking.

  4. Thu May 9

    Women Experience the Outdoors: Women & Warblers Part 1 & 2 Part 1: (Indoors) During the first session of this two-part series, learn how to identify birds, discover interesting facts and find out their preferred habitat. Part 2: (Outdoors) - 8:30 am - 12:00 pm at Bendix Woods County Park in the Runnels Shelter Enjoy a light breakfast snack; then spend the morning birding in the Nature Preserve. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes for hiking.

  5. Fri May 10

    Night "O" can you read a basic map? Are you up for a thrilling experience in a deep dark forest? If you answered yes, then be brave and grab a partner and register for a night of orienteering. Bring a flashlight and watch to help locate checkpoints within the time limit. All participants must be 18 or older. Registration and payment are required by May 7.

  6. Sat May 11

    Disc Golf Tournament A fun tournament with proceeds going toward improvements to the disc golf course. Players will play the whole tournament with just one disc. Visit http://www.discgolfscene.com for more details.
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