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The Refuge Rocks!  

Programs for Children, Scouts and School Groups

FREE and open to the public. Photos of children participating in the event may be used on our website.

  • Refuge Rocks - The Secret Life of Fungi! (Ages 5-10)

    • April 18, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 6465 Refuge Road, Sherman, TX 75092
    • 28
    Register

    Mushrooms aren’t just mysterious—they’re mighty important! Young nature explorers are invited to uncover the fascinating world beneath their feet at The Secret Life of Fungi, a hands-on children’s program at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge. This interactive class will take place Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:00–11:30 a.m. and is designed for youth ages 5–10.

    During this fun and educational program, participants will learn about the important role fungi play in nature and on the refuge—from breaking down fallen trees to helping plants grow. Kids will take a closer look at mushrooms and discover why fungi are often called nature’s recyclers and underground helpers.

    The program includes:

    • An age-appropriate mini lesson on fungi and mushrooms
    • A creative, fungi-themed craft to take home
    • A fun, hands-on activity that brings the secret life of fungi to life

    Blending science, creativity, and outdoor discovery, The Secret Life of Fungi is perfect for curious kids who love nature, exploration, and a little mystery.

    Program Details:

    Date: Saturday, April 18

    Time: 10:00–11:30 a.m.

    Ages: 5–10 years

    Location: Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge

    Space is limited, and advance registration is encouraged.

    Come discover the hidden world that helps nature thrive—the secret life of fungi is waiting to be explored! 


    Show details


All Are Welcome!  (Registration Required)


Tuesday, March 17, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM  Registration

Meet the Mexican Free-Tailed Bat—Texas’ flying superstar! In this two-hour class, kids will discover cool bat facts, play fun learning activities, and create a bat-tastic craft while learning why these amazing bats are so important to Texas.

Thursday, March 19, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM  Registration

Dig into Texas’ rocky treasures! In this two-hour class, kids will explore the Texas State Stone—petrified palmwood—and the Texas State Stone—blue topaz. Young rockhounds will learn fun facts, see what makes these Texas stars special, and create rock and gem crafts to take home.

Saturday, March 21, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Registration

Discover what makes Texas, Texas! In our March Refuge Rocks program, kids will explore a variety of Texas State Symbols and learn how they connect to the plants, animals, and natural world of our great state. Through hands-on state symbol activities and crafts, young explorers will have fun learning Texas pride the nature-related way!


Nature'Ology: A Fun Day of Learning About Nature!

A free single day camp for children 11 or 12 years old

A full day of learning all about nature: fossils, prairies, spiders, birds, snakes and water cycles! Make a terrarium, enjoy a nature craft and meet other young nature enthusiasts!

This program has become so popular, that it fills up very quickly. By opting into this mailing list, you will receive an email with a link to apply for a confirmed reservation before reservations open to the general public in the spring of 2026.

Join our Mailing List for  Nature'Ology June 2026!

The Free Fishing Derby is an Annual Family Event in June!

Cindy Steele

Cindy Steele, Chairperson of Children's Activities of the Hagerman NWR Board of Directors, is from Whitewright, Texas and has lived in Sherman for 39 years.  She was a teacher for 31 years and retired in 2012.  She taught 3rd grade for most of that time, but also taught preschool, 5th grade, middle school theater arts/speech, and high school theater arts.  She received her Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Arts degrees from Austin College.  Cindy is married and has one son. 

Cindy began volunteering with the Friends of Hagerman after she retired from teaching in 2012 and has been enjoying working with the youth activities and butterfly garden docent program since.  She has served on the Friends of Hagerman NWR Board of Directors and continues to lead our children's activities. She is a Certified Texas Master Naturalist having completed the initial training in the fall of 2018.


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Events and activities hosted by the Friends of Hagerman are funded by donations and powered solely by volunteers.  There are no fees for admission to the refuge or parking. The refuge is open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year and you may drive on any road unless gated.

6465 Refuge Road

Sherman, TX 75092

             

Kroger: Stop by the customer service desk at Kroger and link your Kroger Card to the Friends of Hagerman: the Friends will get rewards for every dollar you spend, at no cost to you.

Please add info@friendsofhagerman.org to your contacts to ensure delivery of registration confirmations, account information and the Featherless Flyer

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See you at the refuge! 

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