Outdoor Recreation

Despite its diversity, all outdoor recreation has one thing in common. By definition, outdoor recreation depends in some way on natural environments. The natural setting might be a pristine wilderness area, a pond in your backyard, or a carefully designed and modified urban park or greenway. It can occur days from the nearest road or in a tiny park in the heart of downtown. Outdoor recreation includes activities such as hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, kayaking, biking, rock climbing, restoration and conservation volunteering, etc. It is believed that nearly 50% of all Americans participate in at least one outdoor activity annually. Taking part in recreational activities, especially outdoors, can greatly improve physical and mental health. Enjoying the great outdoors also promotes the health and well-being of the natural environment itself. Proper use of our public lands creates concern and awareness for keeping them protected. It is also a vital part of the economy on both the local and national level by contributing billions of dollars. Most importantly, outdoor recreation improves quality of life. It’s clear that simply getting outside has a direct correlation on making one happier and healthier. Why wait? Nothing can bring you to your senses like being in the beautiful outdoors. Get outside and play in Cherokee County!

Volunteer Clean-up Trail and Maintenance
Join us as a volunteer in an effort to clean and maintain our beloved parks! We will provide as many tools as possible. Please register for this event so we can plan accordingly.
Date: Saturday, May 6
Time: 9:00 am -12:00 pm
Ages: All ages are welcome (minors must be accompanied by an adult)
Location: Cherokee Veterans Park (determined based on park needs at the time of the event)
Cost: Free
Contact: Adam Fussell, cafussell@cherokeega.com

Explore Archery
Explore Archery is an innovative educational program focused on introducing the novice to the sport of archery.
Date: Thursdays, March 2 – March 30, 2023
Cost: $30 for the session
Time: 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm
Location: The WREC
Ages: 8-12
Contact: Adam Fussell, cafussell@cherokeega.com
Registration Dates: Feb 6 – March 1, 2023 

Archery Come and Try Days
If you’ve never picked up a bow and arrow but want to see what all the hype is about, this is your chance! This single day event will introduce participants to the very basics of the sport. Space is limited.
Dates: Friday, May 12
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:15pm (Fridays)
Ages: 8 and up
Location: The WREC
Cost: $10 per participant per class
Contact: Adam Fussell, cafussell@cherokeega.com
Registration Dates: February 6 - August 16

Garland Mountain Day Hike
Join us for a beautiful morning hike (approximately a 4-mile loop) as we take on the natural beauty of the Appalachian foothills! This hike is considered moderate.
Date: Saturday, April 15
Time: 10:00 am
Ages: All Ages are welcome (minors must be accompanied by an adult)
Location: Garland Mountain Horse and Hiking Trails
Cost: $10 per participant
Contact: Adam Fussell, cafussell@cherokeega.com
Registration Dates: August 1

Lewis Park Night Hike 
Join us as we hike through the trails of Lewis Park at dusk into the nightfall (approximately 1.5 miles) to add an extra later of excitement to the adventure! Snacks and water will be provided.
Date: Friday, March 3^rd  
Cost: $10 per participant
Time: 6:30 pm
Location: Lewis Park
Ages: All ages are welcome (minors must be accompanied by an adult)
Contact: Adam Fussell, cafussell@cherokeega.com
Registration Dates: February 6 – March 1, 2023

Teen/Adult Beginner Archery
Join us as we take on a 3-week session as we take on one of the fastest-growing sports in the southeast! 
Date: Wednesdays, August 16^th, 23^rd, 30^th
Cost: $15 for the session
Time: 6:15pm – 7:15pm
Location: The Buzz
Ages: 13 and up
Contact: Adam Fussell, cafussell@cherokeega.com 
Registration Dates: Feb 6^th – August 14^th

Little River Kayak Run
Please join us as we take a kayak run down a river in Cherokee County! There will be limited availability for this trip. Snacks and drinks will be provided.
Date: Saturday, May 20^th
Cost: $40 includes kayak rental, $15 if you bring your own kayak
Time: 9:00 am
Location: TBD
Ages: All ages are welcome (minors must be accompanied by an adult)
Contact: Adam Fussell, cafussell@cherokeega.com
Registration Dates: February 6^th – May 14

Hiking Scavenger Hunt: Easter
Hop through the trails of Lewis Park as we take on an Easter-themed scavenger hunt!
Date: Wednesday, March 29^th
Time: 6:00 pm 
Cost: $10 per participant
Location: Lewis Park
Ages: All ages are welcome (minors must be accompanied by an adult)
Contact: Adam Fussell, cafussell@cherokeega.com
Registration Dates: February 6^th – March 27^th