On November 1, 2024, explore the sky and the critters that flutter through the night! Join the Niobrara National Scenic River and Nebraska Game and Parks Commission staff and volunteers at the Boardman Creek Campground located at Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area. At 5:00 pm CT the evening kicks off with a solar viewing—using a special lens visitors can take a glance at the largest star in our solar system, the Sun. Sun spots, flares, and fun facts abound when talking about the Sun. They will also discuss how animals depend on daylight and nighttime in order to thrive. Stay until 7:30 pm CT you can join a National Park Ranger and volunteers for an Adventure Through the Night Sky and learn why night light is so important to nocturnal animals—especially owls, bats, and moths. After the program, view the night sky with telescopes or the naked eye until 9:30 pm. If you are more of an early riser, and not a night owl, on November 2, 2024, a bird hike will commence at 9:00 am CT. The hike will be around the Boardman Creek Campground area. Bring water, sunscreen, binoculars, and a hat. The hike will only be an hour. For more information, please call 402-376-1901.