Free Outdoor Adventures Showcase Volusia’s Natural Treasures
Posted On: February 13, 2026
From early-morning paddles among native wading birds to nighttime explorations of nocturnal wildlife, Volusia County's Explore Volusia programs offer residents a front-row seat to the county's most stunning natural landscapes in March. Environmental specialists will guide participants through six unique outdoor adventures across conservation lands – all at no cost.
Birding while Boating Paddle: 9 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 3. Join this group paddle among the mangroves near Strickland Bay and discover native wading birds, raptors, and shorebirds. Paddlers may bring their own watercraft or use one of Volusia County’s sit-on-top kayaks free of charge. They must also wear a personal flotation device and emergency whistle. Ages 10 and up are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet. Meet at Spruce Creek Park, 6250 S. Ridgewood Ave., Port Orange.
Wildflower Walk: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 5. Join environmental specialists for a 1.5-mile hike through Hickory Bluff Preserve and discover flowers native to Volusia County. Ages 8 and up are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes and meet at Hickory Bluff Preserve, 598 Guise Road, Osteen.
Longleaf Pine Preserve Eco-buggy Tours: 9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10. Hop on the eco-buggy and take a riding tour through pine flatwoods and wetland areas. An environmental specialist will identify plants and animals and discuss land management practices and recreation opportunities. All ages are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes and meet at Longleaf Pine Preserve, 3637 E. New York Ave., DeLand.
Nighttime Eco-buggy Exploration: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 12. Listen to and learn about Lyonia Preserve’s nocturnal animals during this Nature at Night program. All ages are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes and meet at Lyonia Environmental Center, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona.
Turnbull Bay Paddle: 9 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 24. Learn how to identify the plants and animals that live in the bay’s canals and creeks during this group paddle. Paddlers may bring their own watercraft or use one of Volusia County’s sit-on-top kayaks free of charge. They also must wear a personal flotation device and emergency whistle. Ages 10 and up are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet. Meet at Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve, 90 Divito Drive, New Smyrna Beach.
Citizen Science at Carter Quail Ranch: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 31. Grab your fishing gear and join environmental specialists for a citizen science opportunity. Cast your line and assist Volusia County Land Management with identifying fish species present in the ponds. This is a catch-and-release event. Participants must provide their own fishing gear. Ages 8 and up are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear closed-toe shoes and meet at Carter Quail Ranch, 532 S. State Road 415, New Smyrna Beach.
Reservations are required for all programs. To register, search for Explore Volusia on Eventbrite or contact Tommy Nordmann at tnordmann@volusia.org or 386-943-7081, ext. 21266.
