Coffee & Canvas
2025-10-25 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Join us in welcoming Sherri with Creative Gatherings and paint a beautiful scene while you enjoy a cup of coffee or cocoa and a pastry! Everything you need for the painting class, as well as refreshments, are provided.
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 10 THROUGH ADULT
FEE: $35/PERSON
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=951
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS

Fall Break Camp: Not So Spooky
2025-10-29 10:00 - 14:30 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Debunk the myths. Discover the magic. Our Fall Break Camps are Not So Spooky! Step into the wild side of fall as campers will explore bats, snakes, spiders, owls, and more—learning how myths and media gave them a spooky reputation, and why they’re actually amazing! Through hands-on activities, crafts, hikes, and games, kids will discover that curiosity can turn fear into fascination.
FOR AGES 7-12
FEE: $30/CAMPER
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY OCT. 22 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=950
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 4.5 HOURS

Naturalist's Choice
2025-10-30 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-11-06 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-11-13 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-11-20 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-04 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-11 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-18 13:00 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Join us for the Naturalist’s Choice program, where every session is a surprise adventure led by our naturalist team! Depending on the weather, season, and local wildlife activity, you’ll explore a unique and engaging topic tailored to the day’s conditions. Be ready for anything and wear closed-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting wet or dirty for your safety and comfort. The naturalists will decide the topic of the week and announce it in the nature center and on our social media. Don’t miss out on this ever-changing exploration of the natural world!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS

Phenology Fridays
2025-10-31 09:30 - 10:30 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
This is your invitation to watch the seasons change in McCloud Nature Park! We will go on a guided hike to the same spot every week and document our observations: weather, wildlife, plants at different stages, including the turning of leaves for autumn. Our goal is to guide participants to explore and understand the cyclical nature of the seasons in Hendricks County. Bring anything that would make your hike more enjoyable: binoculars, camera, notebook, field guidebooks, etc. This program will be held rain or shine (except for lightning), so be prepared!
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 8 THROUGH ADULT
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR

Crafty Creations
2025-11-05 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-11-12 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-11-19 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-11-26 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-03 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-10 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-17 13:00 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Unleash your creativity with our Crafty Creations! In each session, we’ll explore a different craft project, so there’s always something new and exciting to make. Every class offers a unique opportunity to learn new techniques and create something you’ll love, from painting to paper crafts and more. Come join us for a fun and inspiring crafting experience.
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS (ONGOING)

Run Club
2025-11-07 08:00 - 09:00, 2025-11-21 08:00 - 09:00 | W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, 4521 Gibbs Road, Danville, IN, 46122, United States
Come for the miles, stay for the smiles! Running is better with friends—and a beautiful trail beneath your feet. Lace up and join us for Run Club, a welcoming, non-competitive group run through our local parks and nature trails. We’ll gather at 8 a.m. at the designated park or trailhead, warm up together, and hit the path for an hour-long journey that includes pre- and post-run stretching to keep your body happy and healthy. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this program is open to all paces and experience levels. Come build endurance, explore the outdoors, and enjoy the camaraderie of a supportive running community. Wear running shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather, and bring snacks and water!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 1 HOUR

Ornament-Making Workshop
2025-11-08 10:00 - 12:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Is it too early to start getting into the Christmas spirit?? We don’t think so! Join us this November at McCloud Nature Park for a festive Ornament Making Workshop, where you’ll craft three (3) unique ornaments to add handmade charm to your holiday décor. Whether you’re a glitter enthusiast or more of a rustic pinecone type, this cozy, creative gathering is the perfect way to kick off the season with a little sparkle and a lot of cheer.
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 6 THROUGH ADULT
FEE: $15/PERSON
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY NOV. 1 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=952
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS

Christmas Candle Workshop
2025-11-12 13:30 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Join us at McCloud for a cheerful Christmas candle workshop! We’ll celebrate the season by crafting our own single-wick candles (1 per person). We’ll provide all the materials necessary for candle making, but if you would like to bring your own container to repurpose (teacups, jars, soda cans, etc.), you are more than welcome! This is a perfect opportunity to treat yourself or make a gift! Coffee and cookies will also be provided.
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 10 THROUGH ADULT
FEE: $15/PERSON
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY NOV. 5 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=961
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 1.5 HOURS

Coffee & Canvas
2025-11-15 10:00 - 12:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Join us in welcoming Sherri with Creative Gatherings and paint a beautiful scene while you enjoy a cup of coffee or cocoa and a pastry! Everything you need for the painting class, as well as refreshments, are provided.
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 10 THROUGH ADULT
FEE: $35/PERSON
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=959
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 2 HOURS

Christmas Candle Workshop
2025-11-15 13:30 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Join us at McCloud for a cheerful Christmas candle workshop! We’ll celebrate the season by crafting our own single-wick candles (1 per person). We’ll provide all the materials necessary for candle making, but if you would like to bring your own container to repurpose (teacups, jars, soda cans, etc.), you are more than welcome! This is a perfect opportunity to treat yourself or make a gift! Coffee and cookies will also be provided.
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 10 THROUGH ADULT
FEE: $15/PERSON
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY NOV. 8 AT: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=960
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 1.5 HOURS

Winter Wreath Workshop
2025-11-22 09:00 - 15:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Make holiday memories while creating a wreath to adorn your home or to give as a gift. We will start with wild grapevine and fresh evergreens to assemble the wreath, and then to decorate with ribbon and ornaments that we supply (or bring your own). This program is a favorite for individuals and families, so register early to get the date and time you want!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FEE: $25/WREATH (UP TO 2 PEOPLE PER WREATH)
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY NOV. 15:
9 A.M. WORKSHOP: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=953
11:30 A.M. WORKSHOP: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=954
1:30 P.M. WORKSHOP: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=955

APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 1.5 HOURS

Thanksgiving Break
2025-11-28
Main office and Ray & Mary Benson Nature Center are closed.

Thanksgiving Break
2025-11-29
Ray & Mary Benson Nature Center closed.

Run Club
2025-12-05 08:00 - 09:00, 2025-12-19 08:00 - 09:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States

Winter Wreath Workshop
2025-12-06 09:00 - 13:30
Make holiday memories while creating a wreath to adorn your home or to give as a gift. We will start with wild grapevine and fresh evergreens to assemble the wreath, and then to decorate with ribbon and ornaments that we supply (or bring your own). This program is a favorite for individuals and families, so register early to get the date and time you want!
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FEE: $25/WREATH (UP TO 2 PEOPLE PER WREATH)
ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY NOV. 29:
9 A.M. WORKSHOP: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=956
11:30 A.M. WORKSHOP: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=957
1:30 P.M. WORKSHOP: https://hcparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=958

APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 1.5 HOURS

Winter Board Game Blitz
2025-12-13 10:00 - 14:00 | McCloud Nature Park, 8518 Hughes Road, North Salem, IN, 46165, United States
Warm up your winter with a cozy day of classic fun at McCloud Nature Park’s Winter Board Game Day! Gather with friends and family in our heated nature center for an assortment of board games, hot drinks, and laughter-filled competition for all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or just in it for the giggles, this is the perfect way to unwind and connect—no mittens required.
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES
FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
APPROX. PROGRAM DURATION: 4 HOURS (ONGOING)
