CRESTVIEW — Chicago sang about the joys of “Saturday in the Park." What a great idea to enjoy an afternoon in our own backyard.
Here are some suggestions for spending a day outdoors without spending any money.
Read about five more venturesome day trips easily made from North Oakloosa County here.>>
1. Baker Block Museum and Heritage Park
Pack a picnic lunch and step back to the turn of the 20th century — and earlier — and dine among historic buildings arranged as an old-time rural Northwest Florida village.
Afterward, explore regional history in the museum, where exhibits include a backwoods liquor still, an Indian log canoe, rural school furnishings, a 19th-century buggy and military uniforms from several wars.
Want to go? It's at the corner of State Roads 4 and 189, Baker. Information: 537-5714, bakerblockmuseum.org.
2. Gene Clary Park
Laurel Hill residents looking for the perfect family picnic or reunion venue know to head for the pavilion in the town park.
With ball fields, a children’s playground and onsite water and electricity, the facility offers a great recreation spot for the whole family.
Want to go? It's on New Ebenezer Road on the corner of Park Street. Pavilion reservations: City Hall, 652-4441.
3. McMahon Environmental Center
One of Crestview’s best-kept secrets, the park features more than 100 examples of native trees and shrubs, a goldfish pond, and a new strolling path built by Kiwanis, Boy Scout and Young Marines volunteers.
Enjoy a picnic under the pavilion before exploring the park. For groups, city officials can open up the little natural history museum, which includes artifacts from early regional industries.
Want to go? It's on Butler Circle off Mapoles Street, by the fire tower. Information: Parks and Recreation, 682-4715 or 682-9685
4. Shoal River Wayside Park
Also known as Bill Duggan Jr. Park, this shady Okaloosa County getaway is nestled against the scenic Shoal River in the south end of Crestview. Bring a picnic and a boat.
After lunch in one of the nine pavilions, fish in the Shoal River, which flows along the park’s south side. Facilities also include a boat ramp, a playground and restrooms.
Want to go? It's at 4502 Live Oak Church Road, off State Road 85.
5. Twin Hills Park
The city’s flagship park features a walking path with exercise equipment, picnic pavilions with grills for families or groups, a fishing pier, a footbridge, and a children’s playground.
Sports facilities include tennis courts, basketball courts and outdoor beach volleyball. City football, soccer and basketball leagues play here as well.
Want to go? It's on U.S. Highway 90 East. Group pavilion reservations: city facilities reservations, 689-1619, ext. 239.
Email News Bulletin Staff Writer Brian Hughes, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Enjoy a Saturday in one of these North Okaloosa park