What make bobcats such good hunters? Why are coyotes hard to spot? How do beavers keep warm in cold water? Join us at the Catawba River Area to learn about the amazing adaptations of the animals that call Lake James home. Then, take a hike to see what wildlife you can find! This event is part of the 2025 NC Science Festival.

Become a water engineer! Learn why wetlands are important and what organisms live there. Practice engineering skills by constructing watershed models with our hands-on stream tables. Search for aquatic critters in water samples from Lake James waterways. A sensory-friendly toolkit will be available for participants to use during the program as needed. This event is part of the 2025 NC Science Festival.  Meet the Program Lead at the back patio of the Visitors Center in the Paddy’s Creek Area.

Mushroom science, or mycology, is a fascinating subject with a dab of mystery, beauty, and… slime? These hardy forest dwellers aren’t animals, plants, or molds—so what are they? Whether you like mushrooms on your pizza or have been spooked by a fairy ring, kids of all ages will enjoy learning more about fungal science at this program. Attendees should come ready for quiet observation and active analysis, and they are welcome to bring in samples of mushrooms from their own property. Place any samples in a paper bag, and do not ingest any mushrooms found, as they may be poisonous. Please note: collecting mushrooms is prohibited in North Carolina State Parks. There will be no foray as part of this program.  This event is part of the 2025 NC Science Festival.