Upcoming Events At Hillsborough County’s Parks And Recreation Centers

Looking for something fun to do this month? Check out what's happening at Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation Centers:

What:     Band Jam/Skate Jam at Brandon Skate Park

When:    July 14 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.       

Where:   Brandon Skate Park, 5720 Providence Road

FREE

The 2012 Band Jam/Skate Jam will be held at the Brandon Skate Park, 5720 Providence Road, on July 14, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event, to be held annually, features five to six participants competing at a time in a skate jam by doing skateboarding tricks one after the other. Local bands will play live music during the event. For details on the 2012 Band Jam/Skate Jam contact the Brandon Skate Park at 813-477-0196.

What:     Park Ranger Nature Educational Programs at Lettuce Lake Park

When:    July 7, 8, 21 and 28 at 10 a.m. and at Noon

Where:   Lettuce Lake Park, 6920 E. Fletcher Ave. in Tampa (Meet inside Visitor Center)

Who:      Children ages 9-15

Fee:        $5 per child accompanied by an adult; free for adults with children; $5 per adults without children. Park entry fee is $2 per vehicle up to eight people.

Lettuce Lake Park’s new Park Ranger Nature Educational Programs provide a variety of fun and informative guided activities for children ages 9-15. Participation is $5 per child, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults without children may join for $5 – as we’re all kids at heart!  Only cash payments are accepted at this time.

Themes

• July 7, 8 – Let’s Make - Home Made Ice Cream And Eat It
• July 21 – Let’s Make - Home Made Butter And Eat It!
• July 28 – Venomous Florida Snakes And Water Color Art

For more information or to register, contact Carol A. Legan, Lettuce Lake Park, at 813-987-6204.

What:     Free Guided Nature Tours at Lettuce Lake Park

When:    Every Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Where:   Lettuce Lake Park, 6920 E. Fletcher Ave. in Tampa (Meet inside Visitor Center)

Fee:        Free guided tour, Park entry fee is $2 per vehicle up to eight people

Lettuce Lake Park’s free guided tours take participants through the boardwalk and along the scenic Hillsborough River. Park rangers will highlight many native plants, a variety of birds, and usually even an alligator or two. Those bold enough to climb the three story observation tower can enjoy a scenic overlook from the skies.

Florida has a rich history, and these tours include a look into traces of what happened 200 and 300 hundred years ago. After the tour, participants can enjoy the cool air conditioned exhibits in the interpretive center located inside the Visitor Center. 

It is suggested to wear walking shoes and cool clothing, and carry water. Binoculars and a camera are welcome, and will definitely make this a memorable trip. Pets are not permitted on the boardwalk. For more information or to register, contact Carol A. Legan, Lettuce Lake Park, at 813-987-6204.

What:     Tampa BMX Raceway at Lake Park

When:    Racing every Friday at 8 p.m.; practice every Wednesday and Friday, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Where:   Lake Park, 17302 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.

Registration:  $30 membership to USA BMX 

Lake Parks hosts BMX racing for all ages on Fridays at 8 p.m. Those participating in the race must be members of USA BMX. For more information, contact the Track at 813-265-1269, or visit www.tampabmx.com.

What:  Summer Camps at Hillsborough County Parks

When: Now - Aug. 10

Where: Various Hillsborough County Locations

Fees:    $76 Traditional Day Camps; $120 Specialty Nature Day Camps, fee per two-week   session; Income-based discounts are available

Parents can still register their children for Summer Camps at Hillsborough County Parks. Camps are offered in two-week sessions at more than 15 different locations throughout Hillsborough County. For information on available camps and registration, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/summercamps or contact the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department at 813-635-3500.