Vibrant fall colors are fading and the once busy campground at Indiana Dunes State Park now offers solitude and a chance to get back to nature.

The temperatures have cooled down, but the excitement and hospitality of the Dunes never fades. Of course, no visit to the park is complete without a trip to the Nature Center. Come experience one of many diverse, educational, and fun interpretive programs offered. Plan a visit to enjoy the crisp weather, and join us for any of the great programs being offered this month:

•The Dunes Northern Saw-whet owl banding station is wrapping up. There is one more public night for everyone to catch a glimpse of this tiny owl before the migration season ends. Join us at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, in the Nature Center auditorium to learn about this amazing research and education project. Can’t make it out? Watch it online at www.webinar.in.gov/dnrdunesnc

•Join us for the 5th annual Sandhill Crane tour on Saturday, Nov. 10. This special tour begins with a short program, then a bus ride to view “Indiana’s largest wildlife spectacle” at Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area. Pre-registration is limited and required. This year’s costs are $20 for adults, a reduced $5 for children under 18, and children under 3 are free. The registration fee covers the program, food, and beverages, and the bus ride to JPFWA. Sign up fast before it’s full.

•Bring your full bellies to the Nature Center at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 23, for our after Turkey Day Hike. Strap on your hiking boots and join us for a moderate walk through the Dunes forests. Then stick around for some early Holiday Nature Crafts at 2 p.m. It’s a make it, take it, program.

Want to stay even more updated on park happenings, park news, and more? Become a fan of the Indiana Dunes State Park Facebook page: www.facebook.com/INDUNES

Be sure to visit the Nature Center this month for some great gift ideas for the nature lovers on your list. The Nature Center also sells gift certificates.

Keep up to date on owl banding at www.twitter.com/indianadunessp

The complete November Interpretive Schedule can be found at ww.in.gov/dnr/parklake/files/sp-Dunes_November.pdf

Posted 10/30/2012