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Longleaf Ramble

Longleaf Ramble event graphic featuring illustrations of a pine cone, longleaf pine needles and a squirrel. Event is Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Join us for some fun activities to celebrate one of Harris Lake County Park’s unique ecosystems, the Longleaf Pine forest!

Longleaf Ramble Event and Wagon Tours

Join us for a free, family event as we honor all things longleaf pine! The Longleaf Ramble takes place from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12.

  • Visit with the NC Longleaf Coalition and The Longleaf Alliance and play "Longleaf Jenga"!
  • See reptiles and amphibians up close and touch a snake with NC Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation and the NC Herpetological Society!
  • Learn about the naval stores industry in our state by exploring historical artifacts, seeing a display of a turpentine still and talking with a ranger from Turnbull Creek Educational State Forest!
  • Chat with The Sandhills Prescribed Burn Association and learn about longleaf restoration initiatives across the southeastern U.S. and the importance of prescribed fire!
  • Enjoy a fun craft with the Fuquay-Varina Community Library!
  • Watch Pat Cheadle demonstrate the art of longleaf pine needle weaving and pick up a special creation (be sure to bring cash!). Pat will even teach those who want to learn this amazing art form!
  • Get all of your compost questions answered by Wake County Waste and Recycling!
  • Pick up a free longleaf seedling, generously provided by Bodenhamer Farms & Nursery and Duke Energy (while supplies last)!
  • Visit with the Wake County Public Libraries' Bookmobile to browse books, sign up for a library card, check out materials and even make returns.
  • Purchase a sweet treat from Kona Ice of Western Wake!
  • Try your hand at operating one of Wake County's pumper units and cool off in the process, courtesy of Blue Jay Point County Park!
  • Enjoy longleaf-themed games, crafts and even a scavenger hunt!
  • Take a guided wagon tour to our beautiful Longleaf Restoration Area. Preregistration is required for the wagon tours due to limited seating (register below).
     

Extend your fun by bringing a picnic lunch and spending your day at the park! It’s free for all ages! This event will take place at the Loblolly Shelter and on the open playfield.

Registration Links for the Wagon Tours

Register for the 10–11:15 a.m. wagon tour

Register for the 11:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m. wagon tour

StoryWalk® Sept. 5–27

"The Story of Pinus Palustris" by Margarete Shearin Cumberland

Ever wondered what life is like for a plant growing up in a longleaf forest? Join Pal (a longleaf pine) and his best friend Ari (a wiregrass) as we learn about the unique adaptations that help them survive in the longleaf savannah. In this charming short story written by Margarete Shearin Cumberland and illustrated by Lizzie Tucker, Pal and Ari will face fast-growing bullies stealing their sunlight, wildfires and more while growing side by side through all stages of life! You'll be sure to enjoy learning about one of the Southeast's most dynamic ecosystems from these adorable characters!