Friends of Wilderness Road State Park Photo Wilderness Road State Park gates will be open on Sept. 29 in celebration of National Public Lands Day.

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University of Tennessee Photo Paul Lewis, the Director of the University of Tennessee Astronomy’s Space Science Outreach initiative, will be presenting a very interesting astronomy program at the park on Sept. 22.

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Staff Report

Wilderness Road State Park in Lee County, Va., has two family-oriented events planned for September - an evening of star gazing and National Public Lands Day celebration.

On Sept. 22 the park will host a fun-filled stargazing evening, beginning at 9 p.m. Paul Lewis, the Director of the University of Tennessee Astronomy’s Space Science Outreach initiative, will be presenting this very interesting astronomy program.

The night sky opens up a universe of stars, planets, nebulas, and galaxies. With high-powered telescopes available, you will be able to view these interesting parts of the solar system and beyond. Instead of gazing at what looks like just another star, you may find that you are exploring a nebula or a planet. This program will give some insight as to just what it is you are looking at.

Those planning attending are advised to bring lawn chairs, telescopes and binoculars.

The National Public Lands Day celebration is Sept. 29, beginning at 1 p.m.. This day is a great time for to take advantage of the wonders that public lands in the Tri-state area contain. Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about the environment and the creatures that inhabit the park through various hands-on activities.

They will also experience a bio-blitz which will give them an opportunity to explore the park on their own while searching for many different species of plants and animals that call Wilderness Road State Park home.

After the bio-blitz there will be a scavenger hunt for different items that will take participants to many different locations in the park. The hunt will help those taking part to discover the importance of the items in the ecosystem and how they relate to the environment.

Crafts will also be available for all ages to participate in and take home as a remembrance of their fun day at Wilderness Road State Park.

“Get ready to have some fun and be prepared to get a little messy! We look forward to seeing you there,” said Olivia Marcum, educational support specialist at Wilderness Road State Park.

Th National Public Lands Day celebration is free, however parking rates will apply.

For more information or to register for either of these events call the park office at 276-445-3065 or email wildernessroad@dcr.virginia.gov.