Astronomy, cowboy poet added to Mancos State Park summer offerings

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MANCOS, Colo. – Mancos State Park features entertainment and environmental education events every weekend throughout the summer. The events are free and open to campers at the park and to the general public.

Two upcoming special events are planned for the park. At 8 p.m. on Saturday (July 18), the Four Corners Stargazers, an astronomy club, will set up telescopes and give everyone a chance to peer into the cosmos.

At 7 p.m. on July 25, cowboy poet Slim McWilliams will entertain with stories and songs about the West. McWilliams has worked as a ranch hand, guide and rodeo cowboy.
     
Fridays: At 5:30 p.m., Park Naturalist Carol Bylsma leads bird walks. She’ll talk about the habits of birds, and explain how to identify them by their calls and colors. Bring your binoculars. Meet at the Vista Trailhead behind the entrance gate.

At 7:30 in the amphitheater cut loose with the trivia bowl and an “Instant melodrama.”

Saturdays: At 1 p.m. join the fun in catching and identifying butterflies. Bylsma will share her extensive knowledge of these graceful insects. This is fun for all ages. Butterfly nets provided. Meet at the Quarry trailhead.

At 4 p.m. children can learn about wildlife and wildlife habitats during “Wild Games.” Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the amphitheater.

At 7 p.m., learn about Colorado’s predators – mountain lions, bears and coyotes. There will be displays of skulls, furs and hides. You’ll also learn how humans can co-exist with these critters. Meet at the amphitheater.

Sundays: At 10 a.m., go on a nature walk with Bylsma around the lake to learn about birds, wild flowers and the Rockies during summer.

On July 18, plan to attend a “Star Party” at the park. Local amateur astronomers will set up telescopes and talk about Colorado’s night skies.

The events are free. Entrance to the park is $7 per car; an annual pass costs $70. For more information about Mancos State Park, call 970-882-2213.

To make camping reservations: call 1-800-678-2267, or see the campground reservation section of the Colorado Parks and Reservation website, http://coloradostateparks.reserveamerica.com.

For more information about Colorado’s state parks, see cpw.state.co.us.

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