University of Illinois Wildlife Extension Specialist, Joy O’Keefe, knows bats and what better place to lean about our furry friends than Giant City State Park! We will begin with a short talk and then walk a trail with acoustic bat detectors. Registration is required. 618-457-4836.

Buffalo Day, an event that happens twice a year, is an extremely important day for both us and the animals. It is a day in which we assess the animals, get their weights, tag this years calves, and give the animals any help they may require before releasing them back Read more…

For many people, encountering a snake can be a frightening experience. Join Jeremy Schumacher, Forester and reptile enthusiast, as he discusses these often misunderstood creatures. This program will be held in a con-trolled and self-paced environment with a variety of live species. Registration is required. Meet at the Giant City Read more…

Take a guided nature/history tour of Glass Hill in the Cache River State Natural Area with natural heritage biologist Mark Guetersloh. Glass Hill (also known as Cypress Citadel and Round Bluff) is a sandstone knob covered by upland wood and home to Woodland Indians for many years. Meet at IDNR Read more…

The Big Muddy Monster Brewfest is an awesome day for celebrating music, craft beer, local folk lore and community and it’s not only a good time, but the proceeds go towards improving the town..  Must be 21, tickets on sale:  https://bmmbrewfest.com/tickets/

Court case reenactments at 2 PM More info here:  https://www.thebescourthouse.com/upcoming-events.html or:    https://www.facebook.com/ThebesCourthouse/

Camp Ondessonk opens its gates to the Southern Illinois community for a free afternoon fall festival each year to get to know our neighbors and area families who enjoy spending time together in the great outdoors. Camp Ondessonk will be providing free crafts, climbing-wall, hayrides, face painting, and hot apple Read more…

The Haunted Hollow provides a perfect Halloween atmosphere for everyone with a balance of laughs and gasps in a safe and fun environment. Costumes are encouraged. The Haunted Hollow will go on rain or shine so we encourage participants to dress accordingly for the day’s weather. Festivities include: A haunted Read more…

Come to Giant City as we kick off Halloween in the park! Hike the Devil’s Standtable trail for an easy, self-guided hike through the beautiful forest. Along the trail your family will meet our creature characters who will teach you about some of the wonderful and most misunderstood creatures that Read more…