Recreational Services
DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs offers a wide variety of programs and activities for all ages and skill levels.
From sports leagues and fitness classes to arts, crafts, and nature programs, participants of all interests and abilities can find engaging opportunities. Our goal is to provide fun, safe, and enriching experiences that promote health, wellness, and community connection.
*programs are subject to change.
Youth Programs
L.E.A.P After-School Program
For ages 5-13, focusing on healthy lifestyles through mind, body, and spirit activities.
- Schedule: Tuesday-Thursday, 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
- Fee: $45 per week
- Transportation: Provided from select schools.
Day Camps
Holiday and out-of-school day programs.
- Fee: $15 per day
- Hours: 7:00 AM - 6 :00 PM
- Meals: Parents provide all meals.
Teen Programming (Hot Spot Hangout)
For ages 14-17, offering self-driven, interest-based activities.
- Activities: Art, health & wellness, special events, peer relationships.
- Schedule: Check-in daily.
- Transportation: From Redan High School only.
Kid's Night Out
Monthly themed activities and games (4th Friday of each month).
- Time: 7:00 AM -10:00 PM
- Fee: $10 (includes dinner)
Naturalist Programs
DeKalb County Junior Ranger Programs
DeKalb County offers two Junior Ranger programs: a county-wide program and a program at the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve in the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area.
Learn more about the Arabia Junior Ranger program.
Who Can Participate?
The county-wide Junior Ranger program is free and designed for youth ages 5-12.
How to Become a Junior Ranger
Complete all 12 activities in the Junior Ranger Activity Journal, which include self-paced tasks like scavenger hunts, leaf rubbings, bird watching, and helping recycle trash. Activities can be completed at any DeKalb County Park, other local greenspaces, or even at home. Once finished, contact a Park Naturalist to take the Junior Ranger Pledge and receive your official Junior Ranger Badge.
Getting Your Activity Journal
- Download a digital copy here
- In-person pick-up: Email junior-ranger@dekalbcountyga.gov to schedule in-person pick up of your Activity Journal from one of the following parks:
- Mason Mill Park: 1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur, GA 30033
- Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve: 3787 Klondike Road, Stonecrest, GA 30038
DeKalb County offers a variety of Naturalist Programs across its parks, providing opportunities for residents to engage with nature through guided hikes, educational events, and volunteer activities. Here's how you can find out more and participate:
Mason Mill Park:
Naturalist programs are led by Ranger Jonah McDonald. Activities include nature walks, birding sessions, and environmental education events. Program details and schedules are available on the Mason Mill Park page.
Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve:Managed by Natural Resource Manager Robby Astrove, programs here focus on hiking, cultural history, and conservation efforts. For the latest program information, visit the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve page.
E.M.B.A.R.C. Youth Farm:
Under the guidance of Park Naturalist Jennifer McLaurin, this location offers programs related to gardening, pollinator education, and environmental stewardship. For details, check the E.M.B.A.R.C. Community Youth Farm page.
Southwest DeKalb: Under the guidance of Park Naturalist Tasha Messer
She serves Constitution Lakes, Glen Emerald Park, Michelle Obama South River Trail and Intrenchment Creek Park. Mrs. Tasha's innovative programs bring the outdoors to life! Through guided nature walks, interactive workshops, and engaging hands-on activities, participants of all ages can explore the unique plants, wildlife, and ecosystems found in our parks. These programs are designed to inspire, encourage environmental stewardship, and make learning about nature both fun and meaningful for everyone.
Contact: DeKalbnaturalist@dekalbcountyga.gov