In spite of unseasonably chilly and blustery weather, near 90 hardy outdoor lovers made new friends and learned more about nature at FRRCP’s inaugural “Nature Social” held on Saturday, April 5, from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM at the Day Use Area at River Ranch.

Volunteers devoted more than 276 cumulative hours to ensure that the event would be an enjoyable and worthwhile experience for all of the individuals, couples and families who took part. Highlights of the various activities are featured in the accompanying photo gallery.

At the TRAILS station, outdoor lovers could obtain information on the park’s extensive trail system and sign up for GUIDED HIKES and GUIDED WALKS offered by Hike Leaders with the Sun City Hiking Club and GWMN. Visitors were especially honored to learn about River Ranch first-hand from Park Supervisor Robert Moss.

At nature-themed stations located at the Interpretive Center and Bird Blind, knowledgeable specialists shared with visitors their passion for BIRDS, PLANTS and WILDLIFE. Many attendees were eager to socialize, ask questions and exchange information with experienced nature enthusiasts, such as:

Members of the Native Plant Society of Texas (NPSOT)
Members of the Good Water Master Naturalists (GWMN)
Birders with the Sun City Nature Club
Trainers with All Things Wild Rehabilitation Center

At the INTERPRETIVE CENTER, volunteers introduced adults and children to the interactive educational exhibits, showed them the Library and Classroom and provided information on the Friends group. Other FRRCP volunteers engaged visitors in unique hands-on activities, revealing the secret process of Seed Dispersal at one station and the secret Habits of Owls at another.

A trainer and trail steward with the Williamson County Conservation Foundation was on hand to explain the county’s LEAVE NO TRACE PROGRAM, with some surprise assistance from the LNT mascot (Big Foot).

River Ranch mascot “Pokey the Porcupine” remained on duty at the Interpretive Center entrance, where snacks and beverages were provided by the Friends group.

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Friends of River Ranch County Park (FRRCP) is a 501(c)(3) organization created to support & provide volunteers for Williamson County's newest park. Join us today to help sustain the park for future generations to enjoy!