Events & Activities
Nature Fest at Cache River Days
Saturday, September 8, 9am - 4pm
Location: Ball Park, Ullin, IL
A full day of fun, free activities focused on the plants and animals
of the Cache River and Cypress Creek watersheds. Canoe tours, guided
hikes, live wildlife exhibits, nature activities and crafts, Asian
carp fry and much more!
Limited space on tours, please register in advance by calling Cypress Creek at 618-634-2231.
Monarch Phenomenon
Saturday, September 22, 10am-2pm
Location: Cache River Wetlands Center
The magnificent monarch butterfly migrates up to 2,500 miles from North America to central Mexico for the winter. Monarch Watch Association has been tagging and monitoring migrating monarchs since 1992. Join us for a program from 10-11am to learn the monarch’s natural history, and then spend the rest of the day capturing, tagging and releasing butterflies.
Questions, call the Wetlands Center at 618-657-2064.
Guided Hike at Cedar Bluff
Saturday, October 20, noon-2pm
Location: Ferne Clyffe State Park, Cedar Bluff
Enjoy a fall hike at Cedar Bluff Natural Area, an annex of Ferne Clyffe State Park that features bluffs more than 50 feet tall, rocky overhangs, a shelter cave and dramatic views of southern Illinois’ fall colors from the crest of the bluff.
For meeting place directions, call the Wetlands Center at 618-657-2064.
Van Tour in Cache River Watershed
Friday, October 26, various departure times
Location: Tunnel Hill State Trail Headquarters, Vienna, Illinois
Come along on a guided van tour for senior citizens and persons with physical limitations to enjoy the wildlife, native plants and fall color and share stories about the history and hydrology of the Cache River Watershed. The tour will explore a section of the Tunnel Hill State Trail between Vienna and Tunnel Hill.
For departure times and required reservation, call the Wetlands Center at 618-657-2064.
Annual Christmas Bird Count
Monday, December 17, 6am-sunset
Location: Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge
This annual all-day census of early winter bird populations has been conducted by thousands of volunteers throughout the U.S. for more than 100 years, resulting in the longest-running database in ornithology. The Audubon Society and other organizations use data collected in this census to assess the health of bird populations; so, by participating, you’ll be making a tangible contribution to bird conservation efforts. All ages and skill levels welcome.
Questions, call Cypress Creek at 618-634-2231.