The Board of Supervisors passed a proclamation on June 25, declaring July as Park and Recreation Month, which aligns with the National Recreation and Park Association’s (NRPA) resolution celebrating parks around the country.

Since 1985, the United States has celebrated Park and Recreation Month in July to promote building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation.

NRPA is dedicated to the services that park and recreation professionals provide in communities — from protecting open spaces and natural resources to helping

fight obesity and providing activities and resources for all people. Park and Recreation Month encourages everyone to reflect on the exponential value park and recreation professionals bring to communities.

Director of Regional Parks Beahta Davis says, “San Bernardino County Regional Parks is committed to protecting the county’s natural, cultural and historical land resources and we envision an eco-friendly, well maintained, park system that improves the well-being of our communities through recreational and educational activities and events.”

This year, the NRPA’s Park and Recreation Month theme is “Where you Belong,” which celebrates the many ways park and recreation professional across the country foster a sense of belonging in their community by providing welcoming and inclusive programs, essential services for all ages and abilities, and safe, accessible spaces to build meaningful connections.

Davis says this is why this proclamation is so vital to supporting our parks and recreation in our communities. Our programs and events align with the Countywide Vision, encouraging residents to increase their physical activity and connecting them to many opportunities to be active.

Davis also added that as part of the celebration this month, Regional Parks is offering visitors half-off park admission and fishing permit fees on Friday, July 19 at the following parks:

  • Cucamonga-Guasti: 800 N. Archibald Ave, Ontario
  • Glen Helen: 2555 Glen Helen Pkwy., San Bernardino
  • Mojave Narrows: 18000 Yates Road, Victorville
  • Prado: 16700 S. Euclid Ave., Chino
  • Yucaipa: 33900 Oak Glen Road, Yucaipa

Park admission on Friday, July 19, will be $4 per vehicle and fishing permits will be $6 per person. The discounted admission does not include camping rates or swimming fees at Glen Helen and Yucaipa swim facilities. 

All parks will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and the lakes will be stocked with catfish on Thursday, July 18.