Camping to concerts: Ways to have fun this summer at Stafford County Parks

Editor’s note: Summer is almost here, and we wanted to know what new things visitors will find in our local parks this year. So, we asked representatives at area parks departments to answer the question: “What’s New This Summer at Local Parks?”

STAFFORD — The Stafford County Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Department is hosting a variety of activities this summer throughout their parks.

First, they are inviting families to go camping with them at Curtis Memorial Park. This event, called the Great American Family Campout, will take place from June 8 at 12 p.m. to June 9 at 10 a.m.

There will be activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, archery, swimming, crafts, hot dog dinner, and a campfire with songs and s’mores. Anyone interested in going will need to bring their own camping equipment (tents and sleeping bags) and register online by June 3.

The fee is $15 per person, and $20 for non-residents. Children 3 and under are free.

The next event, Select A Sport Day, is on July 13 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at John Lee Pratt Park. This event is open to all ages and free to participate in.

Stafford County Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities has partnered with the Gauntlet Golf Course and many area sports leagues to offer this one-of-a-kind event which lets everyone try the multitude of sports Stafford County has to offer.

Try each sport and your name will be entered in the door prize drawing for a chance to win a prize.  Pack a picnic lunch or purchase refreshments from food vendors on-site.  Come for an hour or stay for the whole day.

On Aug. 4, there will be community karaoke — an evening of singing, dancing, and games on Celebration Stage in Pratt Park from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.  They will be collecting school supplies for donation as the cost of admission. The cost to sing is $3 per song or an additional donation item. All donations will go to Stafford County Schools.

Throughout summer, there will be a series of three concerts.  These concerts will be held at Pratt Memorial Park’s Celebration Stage, and include Nashville country artist Tommy Wood on June 16, The Acoustic Onion on July 21, and Spanglish Latin American Band on Aug. 18.

Each concert will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Admission and parking are free, and everyone attending is welcome to bring their own lawn chairs and food.