More than 500 Girl Scouts and their families recently spent their Saturday enjoying Girl Fest at Chippokes Plantation State Park, one of the oldest continually farmed plantations in the country.

During the day, Girl Scouts and their families toured the Jones-Stewart mansion, a home that offers a glimpse into the lives of the families that lived there. Leah Duncan, a Girl Scout alumna and volunteer at the park, shared her own personal story as a Girl Scout during the tour. Duncan encouraged the girls to continue building their courage, confidence and character as Girl Scouts and to earn their Gold Award.

Girl Scouts visited the farm located on the property where they learned about animals in their natural habitat before participating in hands-on activities with fossils found on the plantation. The girls also had the chance to earn their naturalist badge, one that encourages outdoor exploration. From discovering what bugs live in the forest to learning more about flowers, Girl Scouts explored history and STEM at Girl Fest.

Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast hosts events for Girl Scouts of all ages throughout the year. For more information, visit www.gsccc.org.