From summer camps to nature programs, kayaking adventures to painting classes, the Park System offers a wide range of recreation programs that serve county residents of all ages, abilities and financial levels. Last year, 145,511 participants took part in 5,292 recreation programs offered by the Park System.
While programs and participants can be counted, the impacted of these recreation programs are immeasurable as they contribute to the well-being of children, youth, adults and seniors.
Health & Wellness Benefits include:
- Managing body fat percentages, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Increasing muscular strength, flexibility and cardiovascular endurance.
- Improving the quality of sleep.
Helping manage existing chronic conditions. - Improving balance in seniors.
- Developing gross and fine motor skills in children.
- Helping reduce obesity and incidences of chronic disease by providing opportunities to increase rigorous physical activity in a variety of forms.
- Providing a connection to nature which studies demonstrate relieves stress levels, tightens interpersonal relationships, and improves mental health.
- Improving overall quality of life.
- Enhancing overall physical health and well-being.
- Improving psychological and emotional well-being.
- Developing personal growth.
- Improving self-image, self-esteem and confidence.
- Increasing self-reliance.
- Helping manage stress.
- Reducing anxiety and depression.
- Providing sense of work/life balance.
- Promoting creative expression.
Social benefits include:
- Improving social skills.
- Encouraging friendships and social interactions.
- Reducing feelings of loneliness.
- Developing cooperation and teamwork skills.
Community benefits include:
- Reducing self-destructive behavior and negative activity in children.
- Building understanding between diverse cultures.
- Encouraging participation in community life.
- Promoting family and community bonding.
Environmental benefits include:
- Preserving plant and animal wildlife.
- Protecting air, water and soil quality.
- Providing accessible places to enjoy nature.
These are just some of the ways that recreational activities bring joy and enrich our lives! Visit our Programs & Registration page to check out our latest offerings.
Visit our Open Space Program page and learn about the benefits of Open Space and Parks.