Temperatures may still be blazing, but with the official start of fall just about month away, cooler days are (hopefully) just around the corner — and with them, the perfect excuse to get the entire family outdoors.
With dozens of parks, nature trails and preserves, Chatham County’s Parks and Recreation spaces offer something for everyone and every family whether it’s hiking, sports or relaxing with a picnic.
What are some of your favorite parks, preserves or trails for a family outing?
L Scott Stell Community Park is a great site for families because of the diversity of available opportunities. The recently re-done one-mile walking trail takes you around the lake; you might see songbirds, wading birds, and maybe even an alligator.
There are covered basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts that can be used rain or shine; these large airnasiums even have fans above. The playground has a military theme in a nod to the site’s former use as a helicopter training base during the Vietnam War and if you bring your bow and arrows, there is even an archery range.
Al Bungard Nature Preserve is one of my favorite parks for getting out into nature. This 489-acre site has miles of trails that wind through several different habitats. The large lake is perfect for fishing or kayaking.
Are there any especially scenic spots or interesting things for kids to see along the way?
L. Scott Stell is great because there is something for all ages; some of the family can shoot hoops, while others play pickleball, and the littlest play on the playground. If you pack a snack, there are covered picnic tables available throughout the park.
Al Bungard has two large arched bridges that are fun to find. You feel as though you are deep in the woods, only to come around the corner and see this great big bridge crossing a small stream.
What areas that are good for spotting wildlife, birds or plants?
At L. Scott Stell, the walking trail around the lake is the place to see wildlife, especially birds. Herons and egrets can be seen all around the lake; the backside of the trail is more wooded, so you have the opportunity to see more songbirds and woodpeckers. The summer tanager is a pretty, bright red bird you may see this time of year.
When you arrive at Al Bungard, you will find a large open area around the lake, but as you start on the trails, you’re soon enveloped by towering oaks and looming cypress trees. I enjoy watching the types of trees and bushes change along the walk as you progress from drier upland areas to lower marshy areas.
Both parks have lakes, so there is always a possibility to see alligators.
What should you do if you encounter wildlife?
When encountering wildlife, the most important thing is to give the animals space. Staying quiet and calm may allow you to view the animal longer.
As I mentioned, visitors may see alligators at either spot; they’re a natural part of our environment and should be respected. An alligator becomes dangerous when fed by humans; they begin to associate people with food and are more likely to approach people.
Never feed an alligator! Alligators naturally avoid humans; if you leave them alone, they will leave you alone.
What should families bring with them on a hike or walk?
It’s always important to be prepared; that includes knowing the hiking and weather conditions, so you can wear the right footwear and clothes. This time of year, bug spray and water are very important! My kids enjoy bringing snacks; we try to bring things that don’t melt, can easily fit in your pocket, and don’t produce a lot of garbage.
There are also some fun ways to try to engage your kids with the outdoors. Before the walk, you can go to ebird.org and look up the park you are visiting; the site will show what birds you may see. You can also use the Merlin app, which listens for bird calls and will identify the species, making it easier to know what you are looking for.
Nature journaling can be another great way to encourage your party to pay attention to the elements around them. You can note the things you hear or smell, make rubbings of the different types of bark on trees, or note anything else that catches your eye.
What else should families know before planning a hike or walk in one of Chatham County's parks or preserves?
We all need to remember the Leave No Trace Principles and to take only pictures, leave only footprints. You can find more information, here: https://lnt.org/why/7-principles/.
Most importantly, have fun! Getting outdoors as a family strengthens relationships, improves physical health, and boosts mental well-being for both children and parents. It replaces digital distractions with meaningful, shared experiences.
Hopefully I’ll see y’all out in our county parks this fall!