Warm weather beckons everyone outdoors. From hiking opportunities and weekly nature interpretive programs, to the beginning of another season of fun at the campgrounds, waterparks, court games complex or golf courses, make the Oakland County Parks your close-to-home, outdoor destination. Please use 248 area code. If outside local calling area, dial 1.888.OCPARKS.
Camp Wilderness now open at Independence Oaks County Park near Clarkston.
Organized groups, such as scouts, churches, day camps, etc., can camp overnight seven days from April - November. Special arrangements can be made for winter camping.
Surrounded by a wooded area and open field, the campground features two group areas accommodating up to 160 campers. Amenities include six platform tents (each sleeps four), two pavilions for meals and group activities, water, electricity, showers, restrooms, grills, picnic tables, fire rings and benches.
Campers have access to the nature center, trail system and (in season) beach and boating.
May 16 - October 19 Addison Oaks open for 7-day camping. Call 693.2432.
May 16 - September 21 Groveland Oaks open for 7-day camping. Call 634.9811.
May 20 - Oct. 18
Campground Recreation program kicks off at Addison and Groveland Oaks. Daily activities for campers and park visitors.
Both waterparks open May 24. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., based on lifeguard availability. During the month of July, the waterparks are open until 8 p.m. daily, weather permitting.
Kick off the summer with Guest Appreciation Weekend! May 24-26 only, admission is just $5/person regardless of residency, age or height.
Special waterpark hours for May 24 - June 6:
May 24 - 26 --- 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Special $5 admission (see above)
May 27-29 --- Closed
May 30 --- 12 - 6 p.m. Regular rates apply.
May 31-June 1--- from 11 a.m. -7 p.m.
June 2-5 ---11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Twilight rates all afternoon.
June 6 -- Begin regular hours and rates.
Red Oaks, in Madison Heights, offers a wave-action pool and a triple-flume waterslide plus "Splashtown", which includes a river ride, splash zone and children's water playground. In addition, there are picnic areas, a sun shelter, concessions, bathhouse with lockers and showers, and more. Special group rates and birthday party packages available. Call 585.6990.
Waterford Oaks, in Waterford, named Best Waterworld by Detroit Monthly Magazine, includes The Big Bucket (children's water playground), Ragin' Rapids (515-foot-long group raft ride), The Wave (Michigan's first wave-action pool) and the Slidewinder (double-flume waterslide). Amenities include volleyball courts, picnic areas, concessions and bathouse with lockers and showers. Special group rates and birthday party packages available. Call 858.0918.
May 17 & 19
Sign-up for swim lessons - Note: each waterpark will host its own registration day. Waterford Oaks and Red Oaks waterparks, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Two-week sessions offered for beginning to advanced swimmers of all ages. Private lessons now available. Swim lessons begin June 16.
May 24 Red Oaks and Waterford Oaks Waterparks open
May 24-26 Roll back prices and ride the waves at Red Oaks and Waterford Oaks waterparks. Admission fees will be rolled back to $5/person during Customer Appreciation Weekend!
April 19 Madison Heights 1-mile Fun Run/Walk and 5K, course starts and ends at the Madison Heights Nature Center and runs through the Red Oaks Golf Course. All miles will be marked. Post-race refreshments are included. The 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk begins at 8 a.m. and the 5K run begins at 8:15 a.m. Awards given to overall winners and Masters (40+). Age division awards three deep also given. Cost: 1 Mile: $10, $15 after April 4; 5 Mile: $20, $25 after April 4. Senior rates are available. Registration forms are online at www.madison-heights.org. Race day registration begins at 7:15 a.m. Sponsored by the City of Madison Heights Wellness Committee. Info: 837-2609.
April 19 Earth Day Appreciation Day. Nature Center activities at Independence Oaks and Lyon Oaks.
April 26, May 10 & 17, June 21, Sept. 20 & Oct. 25 Free Wood Chips Pick-up Day, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., Orion Oaks. Enter at Clarkston Road gate. Bring your own tools, wheelbarrows, buckets, etc.
May 3-4 Michigan Alpaca Breeders Show and Fiber Fair, Springfield Oaks Activity Center. Free admission. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday: shearing, weaving, spinning, felting demonstrations, Alpaca sock making, performance and halter shows. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday: same as Saturday plus AOBA Certified Halther Show. Hosted by Pebble Brook Farm Alpacas. www.pebblebrookfarm.com or 517.641.6479.
May 10 8th Annual Waterford Oaks Canine Frisbee Competition. Waterford Oaks. Registration 11 a.m.-noon. Competition begins at 12:15 p.m. Divisions include: Junior Handler Toss & Fetch (ages 14 and under)-free entry; Novice Toss & Fetch ($5); Pro Toss & Fetch ($5); and Freestyle ($10). For more information, call Scott Jones at 248.736.0687 or email frisbeejones@gmail.com.
May 17 Oakland County Parks Garlic Mustard Pull. 12:30 3:30 p.m., Highland Oaks County Park; meet at Milford Road Parking lot. Oakland County Parks Natural Resources Stewardship Program needs volunteers to help pull garlic mustard, a fast growing invasive plant. This plant crowds out native wildflowers and seedlings. Gloves, water and snacks will be provided. The events take place rain or shine. To register or for more information, call (248) 858-0704.
May 17 Family Appreciation Day. Free park entry at day-use parks!
May 23 Oakland County Parks Mobile Units "hit the road." Outdoor "entertainment on wheels" rentable units include portable climbing tower, inflatables, dunk tank, in-line skate mobile, puppet shows and more. Call 858.0916.
Memorial Day - Labor Day Annual Fishing Contest, Addison Oaks and Independence Oaks. Prizes awarded after Labor Day for largest fish caught. Valid Michigan fishing license required. Call 693.2432 or 625.0877.
May 23 - 24 Motown Bow Wow Boogie. Canine Freestyle Competition, Springfield Oaks Activity Center. Call 673.6955.
May 31 Oakland County Parks Garlic Mustard Pull. 10 a.m. noon, Waterford Oaks County Park; meet at The Fridge parking lot. Oakland County Parks Natural Resources Stewardship Program needs volunteers to help pull garlic mustard, a fast growing invasive plant. This plant crowds out native wildflowers and seedlings. Gloves, water and snacks will be provided. The events take place rain or shine. To register or for more information, call (248) 858-0704.
June 14 Salute to America Appreciation Day. Free park entry at day-use parks.
June 14-15 Great Oakland County Backyard Campout, Farmington Hills. 473-1800. Details
Thursdays, June 19, 26; July 10, 17, 24; Aug. 7 & 14 Cricket Camp at Lyon Oaks, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Learn the basics of Cricket and take part in game-like situations. Cost: $70/person for 8 sessions. Register by June 12. More information & registration form.
June 20-21 Great Oakland County Backyard Campout, Berkley. 546-2450. Details
June 28 Great American Backyard Campout. This is another opportunity for you to campout with your family, in your own backyard! Camping resources and information on this Outdoor Industry Foundations (OIF) and National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Initiative can be found at www.outdoorindustryfoundation.org/programs.gabc.html.
July 4 Fireworks display at Addison Oaks, dusk. Park entry fee: $10/vehicle after 5 p.m. Entry free with 2008 Oakland County Parks Annual Vehicle Permit. Call 693.2432
July 5 Fireworks display at Groveland Oaks, dusk. Park entry fee: $10/vehicle after 5 p.m. Entry free with 2008 Oakland County Parks Annual Vehicle Permit. Call 634.9811
July 8 - 13 Oakland County Fair, Springfield Oaks Activity Center. Call 634.7899
July 12-13 Great Oakland County Backyard Campout, Orion Township. 391-0304. Details
July 20 Children's Appreciation Day. Nature Center activities and Mobile units at Independence and Lyon Oaks.Campground Recreation activities at Addison and Groveland Oaks.
July 25-26 Great Oakland County Tent City - for teens only
New this summer - the first ever Great Oakland County Tent City will be held in Oak Park! This event connects the TeensOutside and Great Oakland County Campout programs into one fun-filled night for teens ages 11 - 17. For details call 691-7555.
August 4 - 11 and 11 -14 Red Oaks River Walk - 1,000 foot River Ride, 7:20 - 8:05 p.m. Red Oaks Waterpark, Cool off and exercise while the kids learn to swim. Great for persons with hip and knee replacements. All abilities welcome. $20/eight days or $3/day. Details, call 585-6990.
August 9-17 Michigan Senior Olympics Summer Games, Rochester. Events include race walk, softball, swimming, tennis, golf, archery, track and field, cycling, bowling and more. Athletes compete in ribbon and medal events. For a complete list of events and to register, visit www.michiganseniorolympics.org or call 248.608.0250.
August 13 Senior Appreciation Day. Walk Michigan Trail event at Independence Oaks and team scavenger hunt. Free park entry for seniors (high school seniors and those over age 50)
August 23-24 Great Oakland County Backyard Campout, Independence Township. 652-8223. Details
September 13-14 Wewene Mawjeshnok Competition Powwow (They are Gathering in a Good Way). Hosted by South eastern Michigan Indians, Inc. Oakland County Parks and the County of Oakland.
Attention Scout Leaders Both the Wint Nature Center and Lyon Oaks Nature Center offer Badge Days which fulfill requirements for various scout badges. A ratio of one adult per five scouts is required. Space is limited and pre-registration is mandatory. Call for details, costs and availability. No refunds.
All programs take place at the Wint Nature Center, Independence Oaks County Park. Pre-registration is required; call 248.625.6473. A trail walk is often part of the program, so please dress for the weather and trail conditions.
March 29 Like to Hike, 10 - 11:30 a.m. Walking is a wonderful way to experience nature. Take a hike with naturalists at the park and discover the sings of spring. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to hike 1 - 2 miles. Trail snacks and water will be provided. $1/person.
April 22 Hooray for Homeschoolers- Happy Habitats, 2-4 p.m.
Celebrate Earth Day by learning all about animal habitats and how you can help the animals that live in your very own backyard. Join us for a nature hike to look for animal homes and play the habitat hula hoop game! Celebrate "Earth Day every day" by making a craft to help the animals in your backyard. $4/child.
May 10 Spring Star Party, 9-11 p.m. Explore the magic of the spring night skies with the naturalist and volunteers from the Oakland Astronomy Club. Learn to identify spring constellations in Starlab (indoor, inflatable planetarium) and, weather permitting, enjoy outdoor telescope viewing. Suitable for school-age children and adults. $2/person.
Tuesday, May 13, 10-11:45a.m. OR 1-2:45p.m. OR Saturday, May 17, 1-2:45p.m. Tuning Your Tot into Spring, Tots 3-6 years old, along with an adult friend, are invited to explore nature through stories, songs, games, spring hike, snack and craft. During this SPRING session we will focus on Frogs and Toads and Salamanders! Please make arrangements for older and younger siblings. $4/tot.
May 31 Awesome Amphibians, 7:30-9 p.m. Warmth, rain, animals and flowers: spring has sprung. Salamanders, frogs and toads are breeding this season. Male frogs and toads call from the ponds. Learn about these awesome animals with an indoor program, then, enjoy a walk to the wetlands and the amphibian spring concert. $1/person.
June 7 Tails, Tackle and Tactics, 1- 4 p.m. Meet at Lakepoint Shelter in Independence Oaks County Park for an afternoon of fishing fun. This is a DNR free fishing weekend, so no license is required. Tackle, bait and instruction provided. Bring a light colored Tee shirt to put fish prints on, and also enjoy mini ponds, kids' crafts, fly tying, casting practice, a bouncer and more. $3/person.
June 14 Story Time in the Garden,10-11a.m. As the flowers and herbs start to bloom in the Jean Rubach Sensory Garden, come and join us! A naturalist will read a story or two, and then make a themed craft at the Hoo Hoo Shelter. A drink and snack are included, so come and join us for story time! $2/ person.
June 21 Butterfly ID 101, 1:30-3 p.m. Butterflies are wonderful to watch, but they also serve as important habitat indicators. Information about local populations of butterflies is an important tool in protecting natural areas. Oakland County Parks participates in the annual North American Butterfly Count and surveys butterfly populations within the parks. Learn how to ID butterflies and how to participate in butterfly surveys within the parks. Bring a pair of close focusing binoculars if you have them. This workshop is a practice session for North American Butterfly Association Count on June 28. $2/person.
Pre-registration is required for all programs. Call 248.437.7345 and leave your name, phone number and number of people attending. May be paid on the day of the program or mailed to Lyon Oaks Nature Center, 52221 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, MI 48393. A trail walk is often part of the program, so please dress for the weather and trail conditions.
March 29 Techno Eco Info, 1-2:30 p.m. Advances in computers and communication have enabled scientists to "see" where animals go and what they do as they have never been able to do before. Explore some of the tools and techniques used to learn about animals in our world. $1/person.
April 5 Jr. Girl Scouts - Wildlife, 10 a.m. - noon or 2 - 4 p.m.
April 12 Bear Cub Scouts - Space elective, 10 a.m. - noon or 2-4 p.m.
April 19 Individual Environmentalism, 10-11:30 a.m. Earth Day is an annual reminder that we need to consider our choices in all our daily activities. Join friends and staff as we introduce and share viable methods of minimizing our impact on the earth. Backyard habitats, composting and recycling will be some of the topics discussed. $2/person.
April 26 Service Day, 1-3 p.m. As a follow-up to our Earth Day program and the conclusion of Environmental Education Week, Lyon Oaks would like your help in controlling invasive species in the park. Garlic mustard is a constant threat to our native species and your help in pulling it will allow native species to propagate. Bring work gloves and dress to get dirty. Beverage will be provided.
May 3 Night Time Creature Trek, 8:30-10p.m. When the sun sets, many creatures become active. Join a naturalist as we start our walk on the trails in the glow of the setting sun and end in the darkness of night keeping our senses alert for woodcock, bats and coyotes. $1/person.
May 10 Hearty Hike, 10-11 a.m. Hiking Lyon Oaks' hard packed trails is a great way to combine healthy physical exercise and the opportunity to discover wildlife along the way. During the program we will traverse all four miles of trail and repeat, or hike the Huron Valley Trail. Trail snack provided. $2/person.
May 17 Bird Watching at Lyon, 7-9 a.m. Wet forest land, watercourses, fields and wetlands are all found at Lyon Oaks and are habitats where different species of birds can be seen. This early morning walk is during the height of bird migration and could prove to be fruitful. $1/person.
June 7 Hearty Hike II, 10 - 11 a.m. Continue your Hearty Hiking ways and note the differences in the land at Lyon Oaks as we travel the 4 miles of trails again. Trail snack provided. $2/person.
June 14 Biketerpretation, 10 - 11:30 a.m. Explore the Huron Valley Trail on a bicycle with a naturalist. We will stop periodically along the way to view plants and animals that we encounter. Dress for the weather. Beverage will be provided. $1/person.
April 4 Frog Survey Training, Wint Nature Center at Independence Oaks in Clarkston, 7-9 p.m. Oakland County Parks is looking for volunteers to assist with night frog surveys at Independence Oaks and rose Oaks. Volunteers will learn how to recongnize the calls of singing male frogs and associated methods of the survey work. Frogs are sensitive to environmental changes and are good indicators of wetlands quality. Oakland county parks has participated I the statewide frog survey since 1996. Adults only. For more information, call 248.858.0704.
April 19 Rattlesnake Recognition for Dog Owners, Orion Oaks Dog Park in Lake Orion, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Oakland County Parks manages areas inhabited by Michigan's only venomous snake - the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is a shy and well-camouflaged snake that can be found along the park trail. Learn how to recongnize this protecte snake and how to avoid its bite. Live snakes will help with identification.
April 19 Rattlesnake Recognition, Independence Oaks County Park, Lewis E. Wint Nature Center in Clarkston, 2 - 3 p.m. Learn about Michigan's only venomous snake and efforts at Oakland County Parks to manage this protected species. Live snakes will help with identification along with other literature. The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is listed as a species of special concern in Michigan and is threatened of endangered throughout the rest of its range. A short hike will be conducted after the program for those interested in walking.
May 17 Oakland County Parks Garlic Mustard Pull. 12:30 3:30 p.m., Highland Oaks County Park; meet at Milford Road Parking lot. Oakland County Parks Natural Resources Stewardship Program needs volunteers to help pull garlic mustard, a fast growing invasive plant. This plant crowds out native wildflowers and seedlings. Gloves, water and snacks will be provided. The events take place rain or shine. To register or for more information, call (248) 858-0704.
May 17 Spring Birding, Independence Oaks, 8 - 10 a.m. Take a leisurely stroll along the River Trail at Independence Oaks looking for native birds. Basic field identification and bird songs will be covered on the walk. Bring your binoculars and field guides to spot some latemigrating birds. In addition, learn about the nest box program at the park. Plan on walking two miles. Bring water and comfortable shoes. Meet at the Camp Wilderness parking lot. Parking permits will be issued to participants. Register at www.stewardshipnetwork.org or 248-858-0704.
May 31 Oakland County Parks Garlic Mustard Pull. 10 a.m. noon, Waterford Oaks County Park; meet at The Fridge parking lot. Oakland County Parks Natural Resources Stewardship Program needs volunteers to help pull garlic mustard, a fast growing invasive plant. This plant crowds out native wildflowers and seedlings. Gloves, water and snacks will be provided. The events take place rain or shine. To register or for more information, call (248) 858-0704.
June 28 Annual Butterfly Count, Golden Preserve and Independence Oaks, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. The North American Butterfly Associations butterfly count will be held in two locations this year! This count helps to track butterfly populations and reveal important information about the geographical distribution and population size of each species counted. This count will start at Oakland Land Conservancy's Golden Preserve at 10 a.m. and continue at Independence Oaks in the afternoon. This is a wonderful family event! All supplies needed are provided. Register at www.stewardshipnetwork.org or 601-2816.
October 18 Bittersweet Busters, Orion Oaks Dog Park, Lake Orion, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Join Oakland County Parks stewardship staff members to help remove oriental bitterswwet from on of the few forested areas within the Dog Park. Oriental bittersweet in a non-native vine that twines into trees and forms a thick wall of vegetation that smothers other plants. Be prepared to pull, cut and get dirty. Parking permits will be provided to workers along with gloves, water and snacks.
Register at: www.stewardshipnetwork.org or 248-858-1726.
April 26, May 10 & 17, June 21, Sept.20 & Oct. 25 Free Wood Chips Pick-up Day, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., Orion Oaks. Enter at Clarkston Road gate. Bring your own tools, wheelbarrows, buckets, etc.
These summer camps are offered through the Oakland County Parks Recreation Department. Advance registration is required. Contact your local parks and recreation department for fees and registration.Camp Details
June 30 July 2 Camp H2O, Red Oaks Waterpark
Ages 10-14
Sample water sports, including kayaking and snorkeling plus rock climbing, games and competitions. Explore the high-tech scavenger hunt crazegeocaching at the Madison Heights Nature Center. To register, contact these participating communities:
Madison Heights - 248.589.2294; Clawson - 248.589.0334; RARA - 248.656.8308
NEW THIS YEAR -- "NET GEN" DISCOUNTS FOR YOUNG ADULTS! Golfers ages 18 - 26 can save $2 on greens fees for nine holes by showing the NetGen Discount Card at Oakland County golf courses (Lyon Oaks excluded). As an added bonus, punches can be earned for the Golfer Loyalty Program. The free cards are available at Oakland County golf course pro shops. Valid any day of the week; not valid for leagues or with other discount offers.
May 6, 13 & 20; June 5, 12 & 19; July 9, 16 & 23; and August 5, 12 & 19 Ladies Golf Clinic, Lyon Oaks Golf Course, 7-8 p.m. Learn about equipment, proper grip, aim, set-up, stance and posture, rules and etiquette, putting and chipping techniques and proper golf swing with woods and irons. Taught by PGA Golf Pro Paul Simpson. $60/person. Call 437.1488.
May 16, June 27, July 11, Aug. 22 & Sept. 9 Oakland County Senior Tournament Series.Register for all five tournaments and save!Print application and apply at course by May 15
May 16 Seniors/Retirees Open, Red Oaks Golf Course. 541.5030.
May 22 2008 Rules of Golf Seminar, Glen Oaks, 10:30-Noon. The 2008 Rules of Golf (effective Jan. 1, 2008) wil lbe reviewed as well as relief options for water hazards, unplayable balls, obstructions and abnormal ground conditions. Presented by Jeanne Myers, GAM Assistant Tournament Director for Golf Association of Michigan. No cost; coffee and pastry provided. R.S.V.P. by May 19 to 248.851.8356.
June 20, July 18 & August 15 2-Person Scramble, 6:30 p.m. start time, Red Oaks Golf Course. Sponsored by Madison Heights Parks and Recreation. Details, call 248-589-2294.
June 13 2-Person Scramble, 6:30 p.m. start time, Glen Oaks Golf Course. $45/2-person team. Light meal and goodie bag provided after play. Social/recreational tournament consists of two, 2-team players. Best ball. For info, call 851-8356.
June 15 Adult/Child Scotch Ball Tournament, Red Oaks Golf Course. Fun and recreational golf for adults and children. Players alternate shots. Pizza, soda and goodie bags provided after all teams finish. $30/team. For info, call 851-8356.
June 16 No Score Ladies Golf League, Mondays, Red Oaks Golf Course. The league runs for 10 weeks. $100/golfer. Sign up with a partner and save $10. For more info, call 851-8356.
June 17 No Score Ladies Golf League, Tuesdays, White Lake Oaks Golf Course. The league runs for 10 weeks. $100/golfer. Sign up with a partner and save $10. For more info, call 851-8356.
June 24 TGA (Total Golf Adventures) Junior Golf League, White Lake Oaks Golf Course. Runs on Tuesdays for six weeks. Grade K-8. For more info contact TGA at 496-6464 or visit www.totalgolfadventures.com.
June 27 Seniors/Retirees Open, Glen Oaks Golf Course. 851.8356.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 and Aug. 7 Youth Golf Class, Glen Oaks Golf Course, 7-8 p.m. Beginning golfers ages 7-13 receive 6 hours of golf and life skills instruction and a free golf voucher for one child with paying adult to play golf at any Oakland County Golf Course (except Lyon Oaks; see July 28-30 listing for information specific to Lyon Oaks)! Cost: $55. Register for Class #OAK31 at www.thefirstteemichigan.org.
July 11 Seniors/Retirees Open, Springfield Oaks Golf Course. 625.2540.
July 11 2-Person Scramble, 6:30 p.m. start time, Glen Oaks Golf Course. $45/2-person team. Light meal and goodie bag provided after play. Social/recreational tournament consists of two, 2-team players. Best ball. For info, call 851-8356.
July 15 Junior Golf Clinic (ages 7-16), Lyon Oaks Golf Course, 10-11 a.m. Clinic will cover full swing, chipping, pitching, putting, etiquette and basic rules. Students should bring golf or tennis shoes, a fairway wood, 5 or 7 iron, 9 iron, pitching wedge or sand wedge and putter. Taught by PGA Golf Pro Paul Simpson. $60/person. Call 437.1488.
July 20 Adult/Child Scotch Ball Tournament, Glen Oaks Golf Course. Fun and recreational golf for adults and children. Players alternate shots. Pizza, soda and goodie bags provided after all teams finish. $30/team.For info, call 851-8356.
July 28-30 Youth Golf Camp, Lyon Oaks Golf Course, 10 a.m. 2 p.m. Beginning golfers ages 7-17 receive 12 hours of golf and life skills instruction, t-shirt, hat, water bottle and a daily snack. Also includes voucher for one 9-hole round of golf for participant and parent at Lyon Oaks! Cost: $110. Register for Class #OAK4 at www.thefirstteemichigan.org.
August 2 3 Man Scramble, 7:30 a.m. check in; 8 a.m. shot gun start. Springfield Oaks Golf Course. 60 teams maximum. $200/team (includes cart). Prizes awarded. For details and to register, call 625-2540.
August 8 2-Person Scramble, 6:30 p.m. start time, Glen Oaks Golf Course. $45/2-person team. Light meal and goodie bag provided after play. Social/recreational tournament consists of two, 2-team players. Best ball. For info, call 851-8356.
August 22 Seniors/Retirees Open, White Lake Oaks Golf Course. 698.2700
September 9 Seniors/Retirees Open, Lyon Oaks Golf Course. 437.1488.
September 18 Michigan Recreation and Park Association 37th Annual Scholarship Golf Outing, Lyon Oaks Golf Course. 18-hole scramble, dinner and awards. 9:30 a.m. shotgun start. Call 517.485.9888.
Sept. 12 Clarkston SCAMP 21 st Annual Golf Classic, White Lake Oaks Golf Course. A benefit for Clarkston SCAMP -- "A special Camp for Special Kids". For registration or sponsorship information: www.clarkstonscamp.com.
For more information, call the Oakland County Parks Trails Coordinator at 248.858.4611. Note: Equestrian trail events follows regular trail events listings.
April 7 - May 2 Count Your Steps Program. Oakland County is giving 3rd and 4th graders pedometers to promote fitness. Free! Contact: www.countyoursteps.com
April 19 Madison Heights 1-mile Fun Run/Walk and 5K, course starts and ends at the Madison Heights Nature Center and runs through the Red Oaks Golf Course. All miles will be marked. Post-race refreshments are included. The 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk begins at 8 a.m. and the 5K run begins at 8:15 a.m. Awards given to overall winners and Masters (40+). Age division awards three deep also given. Cost: 1 Mile: $10, $15 after April 4; 5 Mile: $20, $25 after April 4. Senior rates are available. Registration forms are online at www.madison-heights.org. Race day registration begins at 7:15 a.m. Sponsored by the City of Madison Heights Wellness Committee. Info: 837-2609.
Tuesdays & Thursdays, June 17 - Aug. 14 Take A Hike Level 1, 6:45-7:45 p.m.; Orion Oaks County Park. Do you like to walk but need more of a challenge? Use the park's terrain for a one-hour hike and resistance program that will include power walking, occasional light jogging and loads of fitness fun! Bring a mat, water bottle and sturdy walking shoes. Meet at Baldwin Road entrance. Register with Lake Orion School Community Education program #6685s; call 693.5436 for details.
Tuesdays & Thursdays, June 17 - Aug. 14 Take A Hike Boot Camp, 7-8 p.m.; Orion Oaks County Park. This class is geared toward the intermediate to advanced exerciser who would like a challenging change of pace. A professionally certified personal trainer will lead you through a great, intensive workout! Please bring water, fitness mat, hand weights and sturdy trail or tunning shoes - no walking shoes please. Also suggested - bug spray, sunglasses and sunscreen. Register with Lake Orion School Community Education program #6687s; call 693.5436 for details.
May 1 BMX track opens for practice. 4 - 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through August 28. Bike and helmet rental available.
May 3 - September 20 BMX racing, Saturdays. National Bicycle League sanctioned. NBL Membership required.
May 23-25 NBL National Event
June 14-15 Michigan State Qualifier
Wednesdays, June 25 - July 30 BMX Clinics, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Waterford Oaks BMX Track. Get involved in an olympic sport. Come and learn to ride BMX. $25/rider. Bring full equipment and sack lunch. To register or more details, call 858-0915.
Memorial Day through Labor Day, Waterford Oaks Court Games Complex open. Sand volleyball, children's playscape, picnic shelter and restrooms. Call 858.5433 for details.