Get Outside This Summer With Parks and Programs in York County

If you are a long-time resident of York, Nebraska, you might be surprised by how much the local parks system has changed over the past decade. The York city council has heavily invested in the York Nebraska Parks and Recreation Department, giving its staff the funds they need to develop programs and resources for the 14,000+ residents of York County.

“We have expanded from 14 youth programs to 76 in recent years,” says Cheree Folts, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of York. “We have also grown our adult program from nine leagues up to 23.”  

Folts has played a key role in making these expansions happen. She was born and raised in York and has worked for the parks department for nearly 15 years.

“One of my biggest goals is to eliminate the idea that there’s nothing to do in York,” says Folts. “There’s so much to do in the area. If you’re bored, it’s because you aren’t participating in one of our programs.”

The weather is perfect and it’s time to get outside. Here’s how families can explore York County this summer.

Follow Your Interests to York Parks

There are dozens of activities for kids, adults, and families who want to spend time outdoors in York County. The York Parks Department has a summer camp for K-5 kids, archery camp, and a swim team. Summer camps in the region are designed to be affordable for families, so kids don’t miss out and parents know their children are participating in fun and safe activities during summer break.

York County also offers swim lessons for kids of all comfort levels, from beginner to professional. These lessons can make your kids feel more confident in the water while teaching them how to be safe when jumping into a pool or lake.

“We truly care for the kids,” says Folts. “Some of my staff first came to the parks department as campers. Now they are lifeguards or they work alongside me in the parks department. We try to create positive experiences so kids want to stay in York County and support the parks by working here.”

A strong park system supports the quality of life of York residents. Not only do adults have somewhere to go after work, but their kids have fun activities and opportunities to play outdoors and make friends. 

Explore Family Activities on the County Level

You don’t have to live in the City of York to enjoy the natural wonders and parks in the region. Here are a few ways to spend time with your family in other parts of York County:

• Henderson Mennonite Heritage Park provides a wonderful opportunity to learn about local history and the Mennonite presence in the region. 
• Wessels Living History Farm connects visitors to the farming communities of the past. This is a great educational outing that ends with a cool glass of lemonade.  
• Galaway Creek Golf Course in Henderson offers nine holes of golf across 2,600 yards. Become a member and tee off throughout the summer. 
• Woods Park in Lincoln has pollinator gardens, outdoor fitness equipment, and a swimming pool. The fitness equipment is free to use. 
• Double Nickel Campground in Waco provides a family-owned and operated way to relax with your family. It has top-notch amenities and a wonderful pool to relax in. 
• Sandy Meadows Golf Course in Waco is a beautiful course with affordable rates and lessons. This is a great place to discover your love of golf or pass your passion to the next generation.

“You don’t have to go very far to discover your new favorite park in York County,” says Lisa Hurley, Executive Director of the York County Development Corporation (YCDC). “Our local parks departments do an excellent job of combining nature, history, and recreation in ways that appeal to all types of residents.” 

Get Outside in One of York’s Fantastic Local Parks

The City of York park system supports residents across the county and provides opportunities for recreation and exercise. It has everything from accessible facilities to open fields for sports teams.

“In the past three years, our parks system has been greatly enhanced,” says Folts. “It’s great that the city council has invested in the parks and its citizens.”

Here are a few popular parks in York that offer programs and unique facilities to residents:

• East Hill Park will soon debut a brand new playground. Residents can enjoy the pavilions, sand volleyball court, and stadium where sporting events happen throughout the year. 
• Harrison Park has a large playground, splash pad, horseshoe pit, and new tennis courts. It is also home to a concrete skatepark with rails, ledges, and a mini ramp. 
• Mincks Park is home to a walking trail, a disc golf course, and the York Family Aquatic Center. It is also home to an all-inclusive playground that is attracting residents from surrounding counties.

“The City of York and the county as a whole offers a variety of parks for residents,” says Hurley. “Almost any town in York County has municipal parks where residents can gather and enjoy the warm summer weather.” 

Remember to Stay Safe in York Parks This Summer

While you are taking advantage of everything York has to offer this summer, remember to enjoy the facilities responsibly. Here are a few best practices to make sure you stay safe and enjoy the parks from sunrise to sunset.

• Wear sunscreen: the parks department offers free sunscreen to residents who visit local pools. Follow CDC guidelines for sunscreen use and don’t forget to reapply every two hours.
• Stay hydrated: Camp counselors help young kids frequently by offering them water and trying to build this healthy habit. Even if you aren’t thirsty, staying hydrated can keep you safe. 
• Check the air quality before heading outside: The Four Corners Health Department recently installed air quality signs with QR codes so residents can check the air quality and heat index in York County. The results are color-coded so residents with respiratory sensitivities can see if it’s too dangerous to go outside.

York is a great place to raise a family because of its strong park system. It also has adult sports leagues for young professionals who are just starting out. Whether you are looking for a quiet park for a walk or a rowdy playground for your kids, you can find it in York County. Have fun this summer.  

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