ROCKIN' UTAH

Rockin' Utah (Reaching Out Connecting Kids In Nature) is a fun way to get outside to play, discover and explore Utah's state parks.

Rockin' Utah is part of a nationwide Children in Nature effort, based on Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder by author Richard Louv. His book describes how children would rather be playing a video game, hanging out in a mall, or texting on a cell phone, than playing outdoors and how the concept of camping and hiking is becoming more foreign to young people.

In addition, childhood obesity is at epidemic proportions. Health officials say that one-third of today's children will get diabetes in their lifetime, reducing life expectancy and increasing health care costs. It will change the face of our nation, but we can do something about it. We can reverse the trends.

In his book, Richard Louv writes, "...at the very moment that the bond is breaking between the young and the natural world, a growing body of research links our mental, physical and spiritual health directly to our association with nature - in positive ways.

Your Utah State Parks offer opportunities to go fishing, hiking, camping, explore history and more! On various scheduled days, several state parks will be hosting events focusing on specific recreation experiences with an emphasis on family fun. A list of these events can be found at the bottom of this page.

There is no better way to create lasting family memories and build strong family relationships.

Please join us if you and your family:

Unless otherwise noted, each event is limited to 10 families. Pre-registration is required. To register, print out the registration form, complete it and mail it to: ROCKIN' UTAH, Utah State Parks, PO Box 146001, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6001; or fax it to: (801) 538-7378; or register by phone at 1-800-322-3770 (outside the Salt Lake calling area) or 322-3770 (inside the Salt Lake calling area). If you have any questions or if you need more information, please email us at rockin@utah.gov .

ROCKIN' UTAH EVENTS

Go Fish!

Saturday, June 7

Learn the basics of a rod and reel; how to tie a clinch knot, bait a hook, cast, set a hook and more. June 7 is also Free Fishing Day in Utah, so fishing licenses are not required on this day.

I Spy!

Saturday, June 14

Come see Utah's watchable wildlife, from raptors to reptiles. Explore the wildlife world; learn how, when and where to look for wildlife, and identify tracks and scat.

Happy Campers!

Friday, June 27 and Saturday, June 28

Great Outdoors Campout: Camp and cook. Learn about cooking in the outdoors: Dutch ovens, camp stoves and open fire; learn to properly build and extinguish a fire.

Helmet Head!

Saturday, June 28

Helmets look cool and protect your head - learn to safely ride ATVs.

Take a Hike!

Saturday, June 28

Take a night hike in the goblins with the park naturalist. Explore the dark side of Goblin Valley State Park!

Ahoy!

Saturday, July 12

Wear It! Life jackets float, you don't! Try out a variety of water activities. Learn boating and water safety. Participants will learn the importance of wearing a life jacket and basic water safety.

Go Fly a Kite!

Saturday, July 19

Learn to fly a kite at Flight Park State Recreation Area.

Helmet Head!

Saturday, July 19

Helmets look cool and protect your head - learn to safely ride ATVs.

History Hunt!

July 31 - August 2

Iron History Day Camp.

Helmet Head!

Saturday, August 2

Helmets look cool and protect your head - learn to safely ride ATVs.

History Hunt!

Saturday, August 9

Discover dinosaurs, pull a pioneer handcart or climb into a kiva.

Take a Hike!

Saturday, August 16

Give your television the boot and walk on the wild side while learning tips for responsible hiking.

Helmet Head!

Saturday, September 6

Helmets look cool and protect your head - learn to safely ride ATVs.