Dates: May-Sep 2012
Duties: Brenda and I conducted the Oregon State Park’s “Junior Ranger” program and gave a program on Seals and Sea Lions of the Oregon Coast each Friday.
Hours: Junior Ranger started at 10:00 and lasted one hour, not including project development and prep time. The Friday program was one hour plus setup.
Humbug Mountain SP is one of Oregon’s best kept secrets. located behind the tallest mountain on the coast, it’s shielded from the marine layer and much of the rain and wind that is common along the coast. The park is relatively small, with two loops and trails, beach access, and amphitheater. Uncommon on the Oregon coast is that each loop has a large, treeless center where kids and adults can enjoy the sun. 
The Junior Ranger Program was a joy for both of us. Five days a week (Wed-Sun) we gathered children throughout the campground, taught a subject on nature and the environment, and finished by making a “craft” corresponding with the day’s subject. We made hummingbird feeders, beaded Salamanders, and Harbor Seal visors, and led expeditions into the stream where we thrashed around the water trying to capture invertebrates. It was all great fun, and made possible with the support of a great Interpretive Ranger. He gave us the freedom to be creative and supported us throughout our stay. He and the park staff were one of the best groups we’ve ever worked with!
Port Orford doesn’t offer much, just a few restaurants and a few stores. Brookings and Coos Bay/North Bend are both located 50 miles in either direction and have the usual variety of shopping and restaurants. There’s plenty to see along the coast, and you can pick mussels off of the rocks or fish from the shore. 
The host sites are outstanding: full hookups with 50A power, a large paver-brick patio, large table, and fire ring. It was a little tough getting our rig into the spot, but well worth it – what a great stay with great people!
No comments:
Post a Comment