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Battle Ground Lake 2025 Interpretive Program Schedule
Summer Interpretive Programs at Battle Ground Lake
Follow the signs to the first covered picnic shelter near day-use parking lot. Some picnic tables are available, but we suggest you bring your own folding chairs. Dress appropriately for the weather. Flashlights recommended for late August evening programs. If a presenter is unable to attend, an alternative program may be substituted. The tentative schedule is as follows:
Hurrah for WA State Parks & Battle Ground Lake!
July 12, 7:30 p.m.
A 100,000-year-old volcano caldera? Yup, that’s the lake’s origin! Join us to learn more surprising facts about Battle Ground Lake and Washington State Parks. Snacks provided.
Presented by: James Donnellan, Park Ranger, Battle Ground Lake State Park
Native Plant ID Walk *
July 19, 11 a.m.
What’s growing on here?! This 1-mile walk around the lake will reveal a variety of plant species that contribute to the park’s healthy eco-system. Limit: 20; sign up in advance by emailing battle.ground@parks.wa.gov.
Presented by: Julie Carlsen, Master Gardener and NatureScaping Volunteer
Battle Ground Lake Hike*
July 26, 11 a.m.
Enjoy the 1-mile hike around the lake to learn how it was formed and developed, and about the native plants and animals that call the park home. Limit 20; sign up in advance by emailing battle.ground@parks.wa.gov
Presented by: Ashley Paine, Park Aide, Battle Ground Lake State Park
Volcanic Eruption! What Survives & Thrives?
Aug. 2, 7:30 p.m.
What do Battle Ground Lake and Mount St. Helen’s have in common? They were both formed by volcanoes! Learn what survived during the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption and nature’s amazing recovery.
Presented by: Dave Newcomb, Mount St. Helens Institute Volunteer
Birds of Battle Ground Lake
Aug. 9, 7:30 p.m.
Who are some of the fine-feathered friends who call Battle Ground Lake home? Join us to learn about them.
Presented by: Simmone Williams, Interpretive Volunteer.
Little Land of Lichen
Aug. 16, 7:30 p.m.
They’re ancient. They’re tough. And they’re everywhere. Discover the surprising story of lichen at this Ranger talk at Battle Ground Lake.
Presented by: Ryan Reynolds, Park Ranger, Beacon Rock State Park
Stand Up, Sit Down, Float, Float, Float!
Aug. 23, 3 p.m.
Learn about paddle boards and kayaks with this introduction to the sport on dry land. Our wonderful concessionaires will do a “how to” overview. This class will not be held in the water.Presented by: Simonne Williams, Interpretive Volunteer
Batty for Bats!
Aug. 30, 7:30 p.m.
Bats are our friends. Honest. Learn about how they help us and what we can do to help them.
Presented by: Breanna Friend, Park Ranger, Paradise Point State Park
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Related events
Battle Ground Lake First Day Hike
There will be two separate hikes. The 9AM hike will be a Ranger Guided interpretive hike by Ranger Ryan Reynolds. This hike will include information about the history of the park, species, etc..The 1PM hike will be a feel good, get healthy hike with Ranger Friend. We will stop and talk if we see wildlife but will mainly just be enjoying the day.
Both hikes will be on the upper lake trail, which is an easy to moderate trail with a few elevation changes up to 50 ft. The trail has overarching views of Battle Ground Lake and many pine and cedar trees along the way. A volunteer will stay staffed at the interpretive shelter with touch table interpretive items, kids activities and snacks.