Get outdoors to get in shape

SAN DIEGO COUNTY — With many people looking for ways to save money and get healthy in the new year, county parks offer a low-cost way to get in shape while enjoying San Diego’s natural beauty.

“What better way is there to stay active and improve your health than spending it in the great outdoors?” asks Renée Bahl, County of San Diego Parks and Recreation director. “Our parks and facilities provide recreational activities for everyone, and many of them are free.”

County parks span from the coast to the desert and include open space preserves, historic sites and miles of multiuse trails as well as eight campgrounds.

Each campground is equipped with amenities such as RV hookups, clean showers, children’s playgrounds and fun activities for the entire family.

The county also operates several community and teen centers which offer a variety of affordable classes and programs including yoga, self-defense, personal enrichment and graphic design.

An annual parking pass is available for $40 and provides free parking at more than 16 county parks.

For more information about county parks and programs, visit http://www.sdparks.org or call (858) 694-3030.