Children practice archery, during the Archery Camp at Jefferson County Parks and Recreation. This camp kicked off the summer season at JCPRC, with multiple camps and classes now being offered. Toni Milbourne

SHENANDOAH JUNCTION – With the lifting of some COVID-19 restrictions, Jefferson County Parks and Recreation has been able to open up some of its regular summer camps and other activities.

“We love what we do and offering programs to the community, so we are very happy to get back to what we do. Even if it is at a reduced capacity,” said Director Jennifer Myers.

JCPR has worked with the local health department, following state and local guidelines regarding opening camps and classes to the public. To accommodate guidelines, campers should expect to complete a health questionnaire each day, including having a temperature check.

Camps will be held outdoors as much as possible, where it will be easier to accommodate for social distancing. Campers may be required to wear masks when inside, so each camper should come with a mask. In addition, they are encouraged to bring hand sanitizer as well as water, as there are no drinking fountains available. Water bottle refill stations will be on site.

Safety of the campers and staff is of the utmost importance-as is getting kids out and involved in summer activities.

“The one thing we have heard over and over since we opened camps is how appreciative parents are that we are trying to do something for the kids,” Myers said.

The start of camps began on Monday, with Archery Camp.

“Archery camp is a great way to get started since it is outside and easier to social distance,” Myers said.

The children, excited to get out and see friends, took the social distancing guidelines in stride. They could be heard reminding each other to stand apart as they lined up for their turn at the target.

The park system will move forward, beginning next week, with Summer Day Camp. Camp hours run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and run each week through Aug. 10.

Outdoor Adventure Camp will be held in conjunction with River Riders, where campers will learn the basics of guiding and river safety. This particular camp is offered each week for 9-14-year-olds, from July 6 through Aug. 10, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Adventure Camp with Mr. Earl is offered next week for those ages 8-13, who will take part in activities such as archery, fishing, campfire cooking and other outdoor games.

Popular Athletic Camps are returning, including Baseball Camp, Slam’n Jam’n Basketball Camp and Quidditch Camp, an entire week spent learning and playing the fun game inspired by the Harry Potter series.

Themed camps for kids ages five-and-up will include Wizards & Warriors Camp, Fantasy Camp and Culinary Creations with Ms. Stacey.

Options for virtual camps via Zoom are also available, such as 3D Art Camp, Virtual Art Adventures and even Beginner/Intermediate Guitar can be found in the summer camp and class brochure on the JCPR website and Facebook page.

In addition to camps, classes are also available, including for dance, arts and crafts, gymnastics, cheer and martial arts.

There is a camp or class that can fit every child’s interests this summer with Jefferson County Parks and Recreation. Note that there may be a waiting list on some, as enrollment numbers are limited. For more information on the camps, classes or COVID-19 changes, visit www.jcprc.org.