5 free outdoor activities to try this summer

Summer is a refreshing time to get outside, discover the Village, and enjoy family fun. With warmer, sunny weather, check out some of the outdoor areas and nature spaces that make the Village beautiful and a place both people and animals call home. Whether you’re looking for something active, relaxing, or kid-friendly, here are five engaging and free ways to savor the season with loved ones.

PLAY A GAME OF BOCCE

The brand-new Bocce Court at William Hurley Park (20737 Highland Hall Drive) was completed in May 2026. Appreciate this easy-to-learn, entertaining game for all ages. It is an excellent way to enjoy friendly competition outdoors; simply invite your family and friends for a casual match under the sun.

Bocce is accessible and inclusive, making it the perfect activity for mixed-age groups and multigenerational outings. Whether you’re keeping score or just playing ball, the court offers an energizing way to spend time together.

GET OUT ON THE WATER AT LAKE WHETSTONE

Lake Whetstone Park (18701 Montgomery Village Avenue) is one of the Village’s most beloved outdoor spaces, featuring the boat dock and highly-anticipated Evening Catch events. This is the destination to come to for a family picnic, fishing, boating, volleyball, and scenic walking paths. Whether you want to stay on the land or venture into the water, there are things to do for everyone.

Bring your boat (make sure you have a Lake Whetstone ID sticker) for a day on the water. Don’t have a boat? MVF’s South Dock Boat House will be open for boat rentals from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays in the summer. Fishing is also free if you bring your own rod, and children under 15 don’t need a fishing license.

Take a look at the Top 5 Things To Do at Lake Whetstone for inspiration.

TAKE A WALKING TOUR THROUGH KAUFMANN PARK

Milton M. Kaufmann Park (9607 Wightman Road) offers a peaceful, educational nature-based experience with its self-guided walking tour. Visitors can stroll through and learn about conservation features built into the landscape. Observation points throughout the park highlight unique natural elements, and several trees are marked with signposts for easy identification.

Whether you follow the tour or want to wander at your own leisure, Kaufmann Park is an inviting spot to slow down, relax, take in nature, and dwell in the peace and quiet of the great outdoors. It is an appealing option for families who want a simple, low-key outing.

Download the Self-Guided Tour brochure.

TRY MULTIGOLF

Looking for something active and different? The 9-hole, 27-par Multigolf Course at Apple Ridge (starts at 10120 Apple Ridge Road) is a playful, beginner-friendly activity that blends elements of soccer, disc golf, and traditional golf. Each hole features a footgolf and disc golf target, and every tee features a map so players can easily navigate the course.

Whether you’re looking to have fun with the kids or engage in a bit of competition with friends, this is ideal for mixed-skill groups or anyone trying a new sport. Multigolf is simple: start at the tee and aim to reach the target with as few kicks or throws as possible.

WORK OUT AT THE OUTDOOR FITNESS PARK

The Outdoor Fitness Park at the Watkins Mill Recreation Area (19501 Club Lake Road) is a terrific spot for people looking to stay active while enjoying the fresh air. This area features a shaded fitness zone with equipment designed for all levels. Kids can enjoy the nearby playground while adults work out on the equipment, making it great for a family outing.

Surrounding the fitness area is a 440-foot exercise track, complete 12 laps for a full mile. Plus, there is a tennis court nearby. This is the ideal location to mix movement, play, and outdoor fun. Come alone or with your group to walk, stretch, and challenge yourself to better fitness.