The lush wooded landscapes of Minooka Park serve as a source of pride for Chilton County. A prime spot for camping, fishing and riding, the area provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation, or escape from the hustle and bustle of the real world.

The park will host a summer celebration this Saturday to highlight the grand opening of its new RV campground, a long-gestating project we’re happy to see come to fruition. Also pleased to unveil this new attraction is park manager Gerald Arrington, who said he’s already received a high number of calls from people interested in visiting. If that means more outsiders get to smell the fresh air of Chilton County and recommend it to others, that’s a good deal.

Arrington said the primary reason for this weekend’s celebration is simply to get people out to the park to see the new additions. He insists there is plenty of room between each campsite, which gives visitors the precious privacy they may not find at other campgrounds.

The event offers free food along with a poker run and fishing tournament, so there’s plenty for families to enjoy.

Just as Arrington suggests, residents have a valuable option in their own backyard if they want to enjoy at weekend out in the woods. If you or your kids have never taken a camping trip, now is the time.

There’s nothing like the air of a well-kept camp, including scenic woods and lakes that’ll make you want to take a few extra days off.

The area also gives ATV, or four-wheeler, riders a great spot to enjoy their vehicles recreationally. At Saturday’s celebration, riders can enjoy cooler hours, as they’re allowed to ride until 10 p.m. with lights on.

The park has 18 sites, most of which have full hookups for water, power and sewage.

As the summer winds down, it’s a no-brainer, but it’s essential once the fall creeps in. Park the RV, build a campfire, roast some marshmallows and breathe in that fresh Chilton County air.