July at Fort Churchill State Historic Park features hikes, a star party, junior rangers and more

SILVER SPRINGS, Nev. — Fort Churchill State Historic Park is offering a variety of ranger-led programs during the month of July. Programs highlight the area’s rich history and abundant natural resources.

Star Party
Enjoy an evening under the stars! Members of the Northern Nevada Astronomy Group will begin the evening with a short educational presentation, followed by a viewing of stars, planets, and other celestial objectsParticipants are encouraged to bring a red light and lawn chairs or blankets.

WHEN: Saturday, July 6, 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
WHERE: Meet in the gravel parking area adjacent to the Fort Churchill Cemetery.
COST: Park entrance fees apply, $5.00 per vehicle. There is no additional cost to participate in the program.
CONTACT: Kristin Sanderson, 775-577-2345, ftcsp@parks.nv.gov

Night Hike
Join Ranger Tom for a nocturnal experience at Fort Churchill. Explore the world of owls, bats, coyotes, and other critters that make the most of the park after dark through quiet activities and an interactive nature walk that will test your night vision and challenge your senses. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable closed-toe shoes and bring water, insect repellent and/or mesh head net, and a flashlight. This hike is about 1.5 miles long and crosses sandy and uneven terrain. Program is intended for adults and children ten years of age or older. Advance reservations are required for this hike. Reservations can be made by calling (775) 577-2345.

WHEN: Saturday, July 13, 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
WHERE: Meet at the John C. Fremont Picnic Area at Fort Churchill.
COST: Park entrance fees apply, $5.00 per vehicle. There is no additional cost to participate in the program.
CONTACT: Kristin Sanderson, 775-577-2345, ftcsp@parks.nv.gov

Gold Fever: Prospecting at Buckland Station
Discover the excitement of the gold rush era and experience your own “Eureka” moment as you pan for gold and learn about the mining history of the area. Gold panning supplies will be provided for this drop-in program.

WHEN: Sunday, July 14, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Historic Buckland Station. Buckland Station is located approximately 9 miles south of
the Highway 95A/Highway 50 intersection on Highway 95A.
COST: Free
CONTACT: Kristin Sanderson, 775-577-2345, ftcsp@parks.nv.gov

History Hike
Bring your walking shoes and join our park interpreter for a short hike (less than 1 mile) around historic Fort Churchill. See the fort ruins, learn about the early history of the area, and hear stories about daily life at a frontier fort. Participants are encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, sun protection, and insect repellent and/or mesh head net. The walk is mostly flat, but includes areas of uneven terrain.

WHEN: Friday, July 19, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
WHERE: Meet at the Fort Churchill Museum.
COST: Park entrance fees apply, $5.00 per vehicle. There is no additional cost to participate in the program.
CONTACT: Kristin Sanderson, 775-577-2345, ftcsp@parks.nv.gov

Junior Ranger
Calling all kids to Fort Churchill State Historic Park! Come and explore the rich history and natural wonders found in and around the park. A variety of activities, crafts, and short hikes will be part of the fun! Participants are encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes and bring water, sun protection, and insect repellent and/or mesh head net.

WHEN: Saturday, July 20, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
WHERE: Meet at the John C. Fremont Picnic Area at Fort Churchill.
COST: Park entrance fees apply, $5.00 per vehicle. There is no additional cost to participate in the program.
CONTACT: Kristin Sanderson, 775-577-2345, ftcsp@parks.nv.gov

Coffee with a Ranger
Bring your own mug and join a ranger for some early morning conversation. Ask questions, learn about the park, share your experiences, and make new friends.

WHEN: Sunday, July 21, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
WHERE: Walk-in campsite at the Samuel Buckland Campground at Fort Churchill.
COST: Park entrance fees apply, $5.00 per vehicle. There is no additional cost to participate in the program.
CONTACT: Kristin Sanderson, 775-577-2345, ftcsp@parks.nv.gov

— Jenny Ramella is an Education and Information Officer for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Nevada Division of State Parks. She can be reached at jmramella@parks.nv.gov