Belle Fourche has amenities for people of all ages. But if you’re under 18, Belle Fourche may be one of the best places around to enjoy June, July, and most of August.
That’s because the Belle Fourche Recreation Center, The Belle Fourche Public Library, and the Tri-State Museum have joined together to coordinate accessible, affordable, engaging activities for kids during the summer.
Program Coordinator Tessa Anderson-Voyles is largely responsible for the collaboration efforts and the ideas for the vision of inclusive and appropriate summer activities for children in Belle Fourche.
During the first two weeks of the summer the Belle Fourche Rec Center has offered the following programs at area parks in Belle Fourche: wiffleball, kickball, pickleball, story-time yoga, spike-ball, beach volleyball, and art. Activities are scheduled through August.
Copies of the summer calendar can be picked up at the rec center or viewed online on either the rec center website or Facebook page. https://www.bellefourcherec.com/schedules/
https://www.facebook.com/BFRecCenter/?locale=zh_CN
All park activities are free; however, a one-time summer waiver must be signed to participate and youth 7 and under must be supervised by someone 12 or older.
Activities in the Rec require a membership or day pass ($3.25) per youth
Thus far, the activities have been very well-received. “Many participants have attended multiple activities.”
Tessa explained. “Story-time Yoga at the Library had 52 kids in attendance.”
Snacks are available on most days and there are many fun giveaways too. In June, the rec center is giving out a wiffleball and bat set, kickball, beach ball, pickleball paddles and ball, basketballs and sunglasses.
The activities offer a lot of flexibility for working parents too. Tessa Anderson-Voyles explained that kids who participate in a rec activity can arrive early, they can stay and play in the gym or racquetball court. Kids can also hang out in the lobby and play games such as ping- pong, foosball, or use the interactive Obie. Swimming will be available again soon.
“Our lifeguards have been assisting with these summer activities, which has been a huge help”. Tessa noted. “The lifeguards have enjoyed doing something different during the pool shutdown.
Helping to supervise the kids and facilitate the activities gives them a break from cleaning, painting, and the other pool renovation chores.
Outdoor activities are weather permitting. Check Facebook or call the Rec for updates.
The Belle Fourche Rec Center is located at 1111 National Street. The phone number is
(605) 892-2467.
