Okeeheelee Nature Center Unveils September Lineup
- Jennifer Roberts
- Sep 4
- 2 min read
Superstars of the Night” evening hike invites participants to explore Okeeheelee Park after dark.
Families and nature enthusiasts have plenty to look forward to this month at the Okeeheelee Nature Center, where a full schedule of interactive programs aims to connect residents with South Florida’s environment, wildlife and conservation groups. From live animal encounters to archery workshops and nighttime hikes, the events combine education, recreation and community engagement.
Visitors can enjoy free live animal feedings Wednesdays through Fridays at 3:30 p.m. and alligator feedings Saturdays at 1 p.m. These programs offer a chance to watch resident animals dine and to learn about their behavior and ecological importance.
For younger families, ONC’s “Caterpillar Crawl & Craft” on Sept. 6 gives children a close-up view of butterflies in their earliest stages. The program includes a guided walk through the pollinator garden, use of the iNaturalist app to identify pollinators and a sustainable craft project. Registration is required.
Archery returns with “Archery for Beginners” on Sept. 13 and “Advanced Archery” on Sept. 27. Certified USA Archery instructors teach safety, technique and practice on the range. Archery programs have grown in popularity nationwide; studies show the activity promotes focus, patience and confidence while getting people outdoors. Registration is required for either course, and you must complete the beginners course to take the advanced class.
The Florida Trail Association holds its free monthly meeting Sept. 6 from 3 to 4:30 p.m., offering insight into local hiking opportunities and conservation issues. On Sept. 13 from 2 to 4 p.m., the Palm Beach Pack & Paddle Club hosts a free community program for outdoor recreation fans, with speakers covering regional nature topics. On Sept. 20 from 1:30 to 4 p.m., the South Florida Herpetological Society highlights reptile husbandry and offers a free fostering and adoption event, giving families a chance to meet snakes, lizards and other reptiles.
On Sept. 16 from 11 a.m. to noon, ONC staffers bring the popular “Sensational Snakes” program to the Main Library in West Palm Beach. This outreach program introduces audiences to live snakes, highlighting their ecological role as pest controllers and their misunderstood reputation in Florida ecosystems. Registration is required.
ONC’s “Superstars of the Night” evening hike Sept. 23 invites participants to explore the forest after dark from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Members of the Astronomical Society of the Palm Beaches join the event for stargazing. Registration is required.
The month wraps up with the free Palm Beach County Woodturners meeting from 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 27, where local artisans demonstrate woodworking techniques and share their craft with the public. The group is part of a national network of woodturners who promote this traditional artform.
Registration is available at pbcparks.com for programs requiring it. Fees vary, with most specialty programs costing between $5 and $10.
Located in Burt Aaronson South County Regional Park, ONC is part of the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department’s effort to promote environmental awareness, conservation and outdoor recreation. For details on the September schedule or to register, visit www.pbcnature.com, or call the center at 561-233-1400.
