December Activities at the Davis Bayou Area in Mississippi

December Activities at Gulf Islands National Seashore Davis Bayou, Ocean Springs, Mississippi Ocean Springs, MS: It's the time of year to celebrate, give thanks, and enjoy quality family fun.The kids are out of school and Gulf Islands National Seashore is open for everyone.Why not bring the family out to the park for a walk or a ranger program? Saturday, December 1st - 2:00 p.m. - Bike the Bayou Bring your bike and helmet and join Ranger Mike for "Bike the Bayou!"This is a great way to learn about plants, animals, habitats and other park resources and also get some exercise.This easy 3-mile bike tour will highlight different areas of the park.This program meets at Pavilion #4 and reservations are required.Call 228-230-4100 or stop by the visitor center to sign up. Saturday, December 8th - 2:00 p.m. - Burning in the Bayou Historically this area saw lightning-caused fires every 1-3 years, but a century of fire suppression has changed the landscape.Learn why fire is necessary for a healthy ecosystem during the "Burning in the Bayou" program.Discover how fire renews a landscape and leaves open spaces for pitcher plants and sundews, gopher tortoise and the Mississippi sandhill crane.In a place that regularly sees storm debris piled high, fire cleanses the forest to allow light to reach under the canopy, "sparking" new growth.Join our Junior Ranger Ambassador to learn more! This program meets at the William M. Colmer Visitor Center. Weather permitting; we will take a short walk to view results of a recent burn. Saturday, December 22nd - 2:00 p.m. - Pine Cone Ornaments Which southern pine has the largest cones?Learn the answer to this question while creating a little southern flair for your Christmas tree. These ornaments are low-cost alternatives and fun for the whole family. This program meets at the William M. Colmer Visitor Center. Saturday, December 29th - 2:00 p.m. - Film: The National Parks (Ken Burns Documentary) Snuggle up inside the winter warmth of the visitor center during the chilly holidays to view a special showing of "The National Parks", Ken Burns' famous documentary.The film will last approximately 45 minutes.Hot cocoa will be served!