Elk Country Visitor Center Weekend Programs
The education team here at the Keystone Elk Country Alliance works to educate on all levels. Whether you are a student, a teacher, or a curious visitor we have something for you! We offer educational weekend programs every Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. These programs aren’t just about elk; they cover numerous topics from beavers and black bears to maple syrup making and hiking. We also frequently host guest speakers from the PA Game Commission, PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and other conservation organizations. On top of all that, we find special joy in the changing of the seasons and holidays. We often have special events during these times, like our Earth Day Celebration, Halloween Extravaganza, and Christmas Ornament Series.
If you are interested in being a part of all the fun that happens here at the Elk Country Visitor Center, then keep an eye on our calendar of events for everything we offer each month! You can also find event information on Facebook and Instagram.
September 2025 Weekend Programs
Friday, September 5th ~ 2pm Fishers
Come explore the wonderful world of fishers. These mammals can be quite elusive in their lifestyle, but serve an important role in our ecosystems. So, join our PGC representative Mitch for this amazing presentation.
Saturday, September 6th ~ 2pm Antlers VS. Horns
The age-old debate for the term of an elk’s headgear. Come learn the differences of antlers and horns and why they are often mistaken for one another. We will also be scoring antlers. It will be a head scratcher!
Sunday, September 7th ~ 2pm Dutch-oven Cooking “In the Early Days of the Lumber Era”
Learn about the food and cooking experience of Pennsylvania “Woodhicks” during the rafting and log drives on the big rivers. A typical dish will be prepared on site with samples available to visitors.
Friday, September 12th ~ 2pm Elk Craft & Storytime
Join us for an elk story time where we will learn all about elk. After the story we will get creative with an elk-themed craft to take home as a reminder of the day’s adventure. Great program for kids!
Saturday, September 13th ~ 12-4pm Traditional Bows and Books
Discover the joy and excitement of traditional archery with award-winning author Ron Rohrbaugh and the rest of the Living Wild Family! This hands-on experience is perfect for kids, adults, and families who want to learn the time-honored skills of archery, as it’s been practiced for thousands of years. Fun, engaging, and beginner friendly. Our mission is to make outdoor skills accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful for every student. Whether you’re holding a bow for the first time or a seasoned shooter, you’ll leave with new skills, a deeper connection to the natural world, and cherished memories. Ron will be on hand to personalize and sign books from his popular LIVING WILD series. No pre-registration necessary, just load up the kids and get ready for adventure!
Saturday, September 13th ~ 2pm Water Quality Issues with Roadside Springs
The water tastes great…but are roadside springs in Pennsylvania really safe? Learn key findings from a recent statewide study by Penn State on the contamination and potential health risks found in our roadside springs, as well as covering some treatment options in this in-person presentation.
Sunday, September 14th ~ 2pm Elk History
From the Prehistoric Era to modern day. Take a deep dive into the history of Elk in Pennsylvania with one of our educators. Looking at the ancestors from long ago, the Eastern Woodland Elk and the current Rocky Mountain Elk.
Friday, September 19th ~ 2pm Elk Bingo
Test your elk knowledge and observation skills with this fun twist on bingo. Instead of numbers, you’ll mark off elk themed facts as you learn about their habitat, sounds, antlers, and more. Great for all ages, whether you are an elk expert or just meeting these magnificent animals for the first time.
Saturday, September 20th ~ 2pm The University of PA, School of Veterinary Wildlife Futures Program: All About CWD
Launched in 2019, the Wildlife Futures Program is a novel partnership between Penn Vet and the Pennsylvania Game Commission aimed at strengthening the resilience of the Commonwealth’s 480 species of birds and mammals. This program conducts wildlife health surveillance, research, and outreach to inform and improve wildlife management in Pennsylvania and beyond.
Sunday, September 21st ~ 2pm Elk Smart
Elk Smart is a vital initiative to help remind visitors who come to visit Elk Country to preserve the wild nature of the PA Elk Herd. Learn the four principles of Elk Smart, how to practice them, and their importance. There will also be free Elk Smart giveaways.
Saturday, September 27th ~ 2pm Elk Pro
Join us for an in depth look at the elk of North America, focusing on Pennsylvania. This program covers the natural history of elk, including their origins, behavior, and survival strategies. Learn about their diet, habitat, and interactions with wildlife. Explore challenges such as predators, habitat changes, and human conflicts, and understand how Pennsylvania manages elk conservation and preserves their habitats.
Sunday, September 28th ~ 12pm Small Mammals of PA
Join one of our PSU Wildlife Technology Interns Clara, to experience our small forest friends up close and learn identification techniques through a live trapping demonstration.
Friday, September 12th, 19th, & 26th ~ 10am Know Before You Go!- Virtual Program
Are you planning a trip to elk country? Learn about the Pennsylvania elk herd, where and when you may see them, and how to be “Elk Smart”. This is a virtual program to assist in planning your elk excursion. Please register for the program to be sent a link to attend. Register here: https://eventsreg.dcnr.pa.gov/register/create/50532819953461
If you have any questions, please contact our Con Ed staff at (814) 787 – 5173
Emails: Ben Porkolab ConEd@kecaus.com
Emma Walters ConEdSp@kecaus.com