Popcorn and Pen

The Department of Natural Resources has planned a number of events to enhance your outing, such as ice cream socials and fireworks displays.

The DNR hosts events all summer long to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Civilian Conservation Corps, an organization designed to conserve the nation’s natural resources and provide jobs to thousands of men.

Here are a few of the programs scheduled:
June 7 — National Trails Day Trail Clean-up, Raccoon SRA, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
June 28 — Campground Treasure Hunt, Spring Mill State Park, 4 to 7 p.m.
July 4 — Whitewater 4th of July, Whitewater Canal State Historic Site
July 4 — 6 - Old-Fashioned Independence Celebration, Spring Mill State Park
July 5 — Beach bash and fireworks extravaganza, Raccoon SRA, noon and dusk, respectively
July 12 — 11th Annual Dunes Sand Sculpture Contest, Indiana Dunes State Park Beach Pavilion, 9 a.m.
July 12 — 2008 Pioneer Heritage Festival and Ice Cream Social, Turkey Run State Park
July 12-13 — Woodworkers Weekend at Mansfield Mill, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
July 18-20 — Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom Days, Spring Mill State  Park
July 26-27, Reptile Days, Indiana State Museum, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday

The 2008 camping reservation season is open through Nov. 4. For information on these events, or to reserve a campsite, call 1-866-622-6746.