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By BECKY J. BEALL/Pelham Community Column

With summer quickly approaching, folks are clamoring to find a vacation that meets their needs in a time of different circumstances. Some families are ready to head for the beach or mountains, while others feel more comfortable staying close to home and enjoying the benefits of sleeping in their own bed at night. Thanks to a close proximity of fun experiences, locals can have an incredible summertime getaway exploring in their own backyard.

Oak Mountain State Park is a staple in these parts with a myriad of activities from hiking and biking to camping, water recreation and golf. The almost-10,000-acre park is the largest state park in Alabama and offers a place to enjoy a beach, swim or drop a fishing line. There are also numerous educational opportunities like the Alabama Wildlife Center where injured birds are rehabilitated and returned to the wild. The park has an elevated boardwalk where the birds may be viewed—Tree Top Nature Trail. Also, pop in at the Oak Mountain Interpretive Center where you’ll find 2,500 square feet of interactive exhibit space as well as a meeting room and teaching laboratory.

Families will enjoy ice skating at the area’s premier rink located at Pelham Civic Complex. Sometimes life is busy and the things parents miss are right under their noses…like family outings at the ice rink. A staycation is the perfect way to reacquaint yourself with Pelham and its fun, playful atmosphere.

Dive in at Blue Water Park for recreational, technical and dive training. Folks come to Blue Water Park to practice their skills and enjoy the premium inland diving experience. Visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards in addition to scuba gear.

Oak Mountain Lanes sets the scene for tons of family-friendly excitement with bowling, laser tag, a ropes course and an arcade. Competitive or just-for-fun, this is the place to spend a morning, afternoon or the whole day.

No staycation would be complete without a stop at Burnette Farms Market & Café for homemade ice cream. While visiting the market, grab a fresh produce box to take home and also, get some Chilton County peaches.

You don’t have to travel far away to enjoy fantastic family time when there is so much waiting in your own backyard.