HOBBS STATE PARK-CONSERVATION CENTER EVENTS
Eagle Watch Cruises — February
Eagles begin to visit Beaver Reservoir when the lakes further north begin to freeze over, at a time when they can no longer get to their favorite meal of fish. The weather has been cold across the U.S. and it can be expected that some 200-plus bald eagles will visit Beaver Lake. Some have arrived already. Scheduled dates for Hobbs State Park Eagle Cruise Tours are as follows: Feb. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17, 23 and 29.
There are two things eagle watchers need to remember: 1) eagle watching is not a warm-weather sport, and 2) the nastier the weather, the more likely one is to see eagles. If it’s cold and a little rainy, that’s when eagles will sit in a tree and wait for better weather. Although Hobbs calls these times on the lake “Eagle Cruises,” there is other wildlife to see as well. Great blue herons, belted kingfishers, red-tailed hawks and maybe deer, beaver or several species of ducks become part of the viewing agenda. No matter what wildlife you see, it’s always great to be out on the water. Hobbs State Park provides a safe three-pontoon vessel, driver, and an interpreter to answer questions and share information.
Adult tickets are $10 plus tax and children (ages 6-12) are $5 plus tax. Tours depart Rocky Branch Marina promptly at 3 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets (which must be purchased in advance of the selected tour), call 479-789-5000.
Sweetheart Boat Cruises/Lunch — Feb. 15 and 16
Are you still looking for a last-minute way to score points with your sweetheart on Valentine’s weekend? Share the wonders of nature with your love this Valentine’s Day weekend by taking a boat cruise on beautiful Beaver Lake and enjoying a delightful lunch at Ventris Trails End Resort. There will also be live entertainment. Lunch features bacon-wrapped smoked chicken with sautéed mushrooms, onions and cheese, twice baked potato, seasoned green beans, French onion soup and salad with homemade bread rolls, chocolate cake, water, tea, or coffee; or a Portabella sandwich. Alcoholic beverages are available at an additional charge.
There are two Sweetheart Cruises to choose from — Saturday, Feb. 15, and Sunday, Feb. 16. Each cruise will leave Rocky Branch Marina at 11 a.m. and return at 2 p.m. Cost is $40 plus tax per individual. Reservations and payment must be made in advance. Contact Hobbs State Park to reserve your spot at 479789-5000.
Fun with Mother Nature — Monthly
It’s not every day we observe Mother Nature. She’s careful regarding when she can be seen by humans. One of her favorite stops, however, is Hobbs State Park on every second Saturday of the month. That’s when she drops in at the visitor center to tell timely stories to her little human friends. Readings begin with story-time at 10:30 a.m., followed by “hands-on” nature-craft activities. Humans of all ages are welcome, however most stories target those in the 3-6-year age group. The cost is free and lasts approximately one hour. For more information, call 479-789-5000.
Upcoming Mother Nature visits are: Feb. 8 — The Woods in Winter: Where are the Animals?; Mar. 14 — Getting Ready for Spring: Changes in the Woods; Apr. 11 — Dandelions: Stars in the Grass; May 9 — Around the Pond: Frogs and Toads; June 13 — Animals in the Night; July 11 — Water Dance — Water Cycle and Storm Drain Pollution; Aug. 8 — Caterpillar to Butterfly; Sept. 12 — Autumn in the Woods: Preparing for Winter; Oct. 10 — Bats: Not Really Scary; Nov. 14 — It’s Turkey Time; and Dec. 12 — Who Goes There? Footprints and Animal Signs
Park Visitor Center
For additional information on Hobbs programs, trails, picnicking or meeting room rental and the Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area Visitor Center, contact the park at 479-789-5000. The visitor center is located on Arkansas Highway 12, just east of the War Eagle Road intersection. To learn more about upcoming Friends of Hobbs speakers and other park programs, go to www.friendsofhobbs.com and www.ArkansasStateParks.com/ hobbsstateparkconservation area.