The dog days of summer are upon us, and Moraine and McConnells Mill state parks have plenty to offer Butler County residents this month.

Thursday — Before watching the fireworks, those interested in fishing can head out to Moraine State Park to observe Fish for Free Day on the Fourth of July. This is one of the days when Pennsylvania residents can fish without a license, although all other fishing regulations still apply. Moraine is offering free fishing equipment at the park office on the South Shore starting at 8 a.m. All equipment must be returned by 4 p.m.

July 10 — Moraine State Park is hosting Watercolor Wednesday from 10 a.m. to noon at the McDanel’s Launch Area. The class is open to all skill levels. Preregistration is required, and the class size is limited. Call the gift shop at 724-368-9185 to register.

July 12 — Budding fishermen can learn the basics of fly fishing in the Intro to Fly-Fishing Course from 5 to 8 p.m. at the 528 Bridge Boat Launch area at Moraine. All equipment will be provided by the park, and a fishing license is not required. This course is open to anyone age 12 and older, but those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

July 13 — Moraine will host a “living history” demonstration at the restored Muddy Creek Oil Well from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., giving visitors a chance to see an antique Bessemer engine pumping oil.

July 17 — The McConnells Mill Park naturalist is offering a guided tour of the “Creek Critters” in Hell Run Creek, which includes salamanders, crayfish and aquatic insects. Meet at the Hell’s Hollow Trail for the tour, which runs from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

July 20 — Moraine State Park is offering a full moon paddle on Lake Arthur from 8 to 10:30 p.m. A limited number of kayaks are available, but you can bring your own. Life jackets are required. This event is open to ages 12 and older; those younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

July 25 and Aug. 1 — The DiscoverE Penn’s Adventurers day camp at Moraine is open to children ages 9 to 12. True to the camp’s name, participants will go on outdoor adventures and learn outdoor skills. Preregistration is required, and the cost to register is $10.

July 26 — See bats and learn about these misunderstood creatures of the night during the Bats in Action event from 8 to 10 p.m. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church on the shores of Lake Arthur at Moraine.

July 28 — Learn more about the great blue heron and kingfisher during a nature paddle from 1 to 3 p.m. on Lake Arthur at Moraine. A limited number of kayaks are available, but you can bring your own. Life jackets are required. This event is open to ages 12 and older, but those younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration opens July 14.