This is to purchase a Daily Fishing Permit only. The Voice of America Lake is stocked annually in the spring. MetroParks fishing permits are only required to fish at VOA Lake. A State of Ohio fishing license is required to fish at all other park locations. If you are interested in purchasing an annual fishing permit, please visit the Voice of America Welcome Center during business hours. Children 5 years and younger can fish for free.
Ice Fishing is NOT Permitted.

Young Guns University is offering a FREE archery clinic for ages 8-18 years old. Participants will learn about various disciplines of archery, as well as the basics, such as steps to shooting with a bow and range safety rules. If you are experienced and have your own equipment, bring it with you. New to archery? We've got you covered! Equipment will be supplied for those who'd like to give it a try.

Become a guest in nature's home as we hike the trails and explore how our animal friends find shelter and protection in the forest. Along the way, we'll practice some of our own wilderness skills, like building safe campfires, all while being an eco-friend to the environment.

This program is for Brownie Girl Scouts. Scouts must be accompanied by a paid, participating adult. Registration required.

Have you ever wondered how to make mouthwatering cornbread from scratch? It's quick, easy, and definitely worth your effort! Friends of Chrisholm's own Carmon Hacker will demonstrate step by step how to make the batter of her "Blue Ribbon Cornbread", which won First Place at the Butler County Fair. Following the demonstration, you will assemble the dry ingredients. Take the mix home to add the liquid ingredients and bake your own batch!

Registration required. 13 years and up. Under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet live animals as we talk about how nature prepares for and survives winter. Who sleeps, who leaves town, and who adapts to the conditions?

Experience Nature in a Blink, a year-long series where you become eyewitness to the elusive wonders of nature at your favorite MetroParks.

While we may not associate Ohio with the coast, many waterfowl and shorebirds fly their way across the state heading south for the winter. The wetlands at Gilmore Ponds make for a perfect stopover, depending on water level - come join us to see what we can find!

Registration required.

How do you identify trees without their leaves? Use clues such as bark, branching, and buds to learn how to identify common trees during winter. Please dress for the weather.

Learn about different methods of making soap, traditional and modern. Design your own glycerin soap to take home and craft fun, handmade gifts to share with loved ones during the holidays.

Ages 10+

How did early Ohioans stay occupied when it was much too cold to go outside? Walk through the Pioneer Village at Governor Bebb to experience a wintry evening from over 200 years ago. In this self-guided exploration, fires will be roaring in the cabins to help keep away the cold, and educators in historical dress will be on-site demonstrating traditional seasonal pastimes. Hot cider will be provided.

Registration required.

Experience Nature in a Blink, a year-long series where you become eyewitness to the elusive wonders of nature at your favorite MetroParks.

The Geminids are considered one of the best meteor showers of the year for younger viewers, as the shower starts earlier in the night than many others. Bundle up to enjoy this cold, bright evening under the stars in your park after dark. This program will only take place if the weather is clear; please check for cancellation on our website and social media the day of the program to verify.

Registration required.