Family Health and Fitness Day
National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) celebrates Family Health and Fitness Day on the second Saturday of June each year. There are numerous studies that demonstrate the correlation between access to parks, open space and nature and improved physical and mental health. The purpose of this day is to recognize the importance of parks and recreation services in keeping communities healthy.
- Living close to parks and other recreation infrastructure is consistently related to higher physical activity levels for both adults and youth. Moreover, parks provide a connection to nature, which studies demonstrate relieves stress, tightens interpersonal relationships and improves mental health. As little as 20 minutes a day spent outdoors helps reduce stress.
- According to the June 2021 NRPA Park Pulse, 93 percent of U.S. adults say their mental health is improved by services offered by local park and recreation professionals and agencies. The top three mental health opportunities found in parks and recreation include: socializing with friends and family, spending time in nature, and exercising.
- According to the November 2021 NRPA Park Pulse, three In four U.S. adults say it is important that they have access to public walking, hiking or biking trails near their home.
Events and Programs
For Family Health & Fitness Day 2024, Regional Parks is pleased to share these programs and “parknership events" for the community to enjoy on Saturday, June 8. These programs and events are broken down by region (American River Parkway, Dry Creek Parkway, and Southern County * Virtual).
All events will take place between 9 a.m. to noon, unless otherwise noted.
American River Parkway
American River Raft Rentals Special
All participants will receive a 25% off coupon for their next raft rental, and one lucky group wearing their lifejackets will win one free 12-person raft rental!
During normal business hours!
Raft rental rates apply
$7 per vehicle entry at American River Parkway entrances.
Turtles at Bushy Lake
Soil Born Farms - Farm Stand Open
Buy farm fresh organic produce, learn about American River Ranch, classes and volunteer opportunities.
2140 Chase Drive, Rancho Cordova, CA
8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Free Parking!
Sacramento Valley Conservancy
American River Bike Patrol
Join members of the volunteer Bike Patrol at an Information, Hydration and Bike Mechanical Station at William B. Pond Park and take a ride along the trail!
$7 per vehicle entry fee at American River Parkway entrances
Tree Treasure Hunt & Educational Odyssey
75 Trees and 17 species have been selected along the American River Parkway to help you learn and recognize the trees along the multi-use trail as you enjoy riding your bicycle.
Free Event
$7 per vehicle entry fee at American River Parkway entrances
Dry Creek Parkway
Sac Republic FC Soccer Clinics
Sports Games and Relays at Cherry Island Sports Complex
Rio Linda Elverta Rec and Park District & the National Academy of Athletics are hosting Sports Games/Relays to promote positive physical & mental development through sports fundamentals at Cherry Island Sports Complex.
Free Event, Free Parking!
Disc Golf Demonstration
Pumpkin Planting Event
Bring the family to Gibson Ranch Regional Park and plant a pumpkin to bring home and watch grow.
Free Event, Free Parking!
Birds & Bees, Flowers & Trees
Enjoy the beautiful display of blooming flowers while learning about the proposed Community Garden and Food Forest concept at Gibson Ranch.
Free Event, Free Parking!
- Family Fun at Cherry Island Golf Course
- Join the crew at Cherry Island Golf Course for a morning of family fun! Bounce houses, face painting, kids' introduction to golf stations & more!
- 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Free Event, Free Parking!
- Night of the Revving Dead Car Show
- Join Alley Cats Car Club for “Night of the Revving Dead” car show, music and family fun.
- Noon - 8 p.m.
- Free event for spectators - $5 parking per vehicle
Southern Sacramento County & Virtual
Trek the Trails 5K Fun Run/Walk
Bring the Family out for a 5K Fun Run and Walk along the Cosumnes River Preserve Trails!
The timed race begins at 9 a.m. but anyone is welcome to join between 9 and 10 a.m.
13501 Franklin Blvd., Galt, CA
Free Event, Free Parking
Stroll Around Mather Regional Park
Re-Introducing: Agents of Discovery
Agents of Discovery is an interactive, augmented reality game is coming back to Sacramento County Regional Parks. While in participating parks, users will be encouraged to explore missions to find “challenges” that will… well, challenge their knowledge of the parks!
Free app download is available in the Apple App and Google Play Stores!
These actions are consistent with the Department’s overall mission to enhance the health, enjoyment and quality of life in the region by:
- Acquiring, managing, and protecting park and open space lands;
- Educating the public on the uses and values of leisure time activities, and the cultural and natural history of the County;
- Growing and linking a system of regional parks, trails and open space in Sacramento and neighboring counties;
- Providing a broad range of recreational activities for the community’s diverse populations;
- Providing stewardship and protection of Sacramento County’s regional park system through partnerships, planning and community involvement.
