Celebrating Park and Recreation Month

By U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.)

Serving in Congress and spending long amounts of time in Washington, D.C. makes it even more special when I get to enjoy Arkansas’s natural beauty. Some of my fondest memories were made with family and friends fishing on Lake Ouachita or hunting the forests and fields of Arkansas. I grew up enjoying the outdoors around my childhood home in Garland County, have taken my children on many excursions to the Buffalo National River and hiked Hawksbill Crag in the fall.

To many Arkansans, outdoor recreation means the world. That’s why I’m glad that July is Park and Recreation Month, a month-long celebration highlighting the incredible opportunities and benefits that park and recreation agencies provide to local communities. By offering conservation and wellness programs, these agencies ensure that Americans not only have access to parks but are also benefiting from them.

Just because you don’t live close to famous national parks like Yosemite or the Grand Canyon doesn’t mean that your family can’t enjoy the outdoors! Many local parks host activities like free concerts or games during the summer, and parents with young children can take advantage of playgrounds and swing sets. If you have older kids or just want to get some exercise, Arkansas has incredible hiking and biking trails that are perfect for summer evenings. Oftentimes park authorities will also participate in programs to ensure group meals are provided during out-of-school times at park and recreation centers nationwide.

I encourage you to visit your local park to learn more! Whatever you decide to do, I hope you’re able to get outside and enjoy fresh air and sunshine in the Natural State this month.