July is Park and Recreation Month--and what way to celebrate than heading out to one of Sarasota County's beautiful parks?

Created by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), Park and Recreation Month specifically highlights the vital and powerful role local parks and recreation play in conservation, health and wellness and social equity efforts in communities all across the country.

Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources is offering a variety of ways to take advantage of our region's amenities this month, from weekly kids' summer runs on Siesta Key Beach to a free nature hike at Lemon Bay this Saturday from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

"July is the perfect time to highlight all the benefits parks and recreation provides right here in Sarasota County," says Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources director Carolyn Brown. "Our local parks and recreation directly contribute to reduced obesity rates, an improved ecosystem and increased property values."

For more information about local Park and Recreation Month events, click here. And for 20 great local outdoor adventures, click here.