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Get Outdoors. Connect with nature. Feel better.

ParkRx Monterey County is here to help!

PARKS NEAR ME

Why Engage?

There’s no doubt that getting outside and spending time in nature can lead us to be more physically active.  But did you know that there are many other health benefits to spending time outside?  ParkRx Monterey County is here to help connect you with all of the wonderful open spaces here in the central coast.  We invite you to explore the map and calendar of events for all our county has to offer.  So grab your walking shoes and join us outside…there’s a park waiting just for you!

Parks and Open Space
Are Closer Than You Think

Benefits of Going to The Park

Mental Focus

Spending time in nature can help improve thinking and focus and increase creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Physical Wellness

Nature can help improve physical wellness. Whatever your physical well-being goal is, getting outside will have a positive effect on your health.

Mental Health

Being outside can improve mental well-being and help reduce feelings of stress or depression.

Social Connection

Spending time outside increases social connections. Coming together with family, friends, and others is a wonderful boost for your health.

Sleep Quality

Spending time outside can help improve sleep. Exposure to natural light helps regulate sleep/wake cycles and helps you sleep better.

Who We Are

ParkRx Monterey County is a collaborative of public health advocates, parks & open space professionals, medical providers & educators, joined in a common mission to get Monterey County residents outdoors and moving. Given the prevalence of diet and exercise-related health challenges in the region, increasing the utilization of our incredible outdoor areas for recreation, exercise and community-building will benefit all. Please join us in making Monterey County a happier and healthier place to live!

Who We Are

ParkRx Monterey County is a collaborative of public health advocates, parks & open space professionals, medical providers & educators, joined in a common mission to get Monterey County residents outdoors and moving. Given the prevalence of diet and exercise-related health challenges in the region, increasing the utilization of our incredible outdoor areas for recreation, exercise and community-building will benefit all. Please join us in making Monterey County a happier and healthier place to live!

Partners

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Big Sur Land Trust

Big Sur Land Trust (BSLT) is a non-profit organization with a mission to inspire love of land across generations, conservation of our unique Monterey County landscapes, and access to outdoor experiences for all.
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Blue Zones Project Monterey County

Blue Zones Project encourages changes in our community that lead to healthier options. When our entire community participates—from our worksites and schools to our restaurants and grocery stores—the small changes contribute to huge benefits for all of us: lowered healthcare costs, improved productivity, and ultimately, a higher quality of life.
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County of Monterey California

Proudly serving the community since 1850
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Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District

Protecting & Preserving Parks & Open Space
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Ventana Wildlife Society

Conserving Native Wildlife and Their Habitats Since 1977

TESTIMONIALS

from active park-goers

“Building healthier habits, such as improving your diet, increasing natural movement and increasing connectivity to our environment will improve overall, long-term health. Simply stepping outside can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress and lower blood pressure.”

– Dr. Joanna Oppenheim, Salinas Valley Health

“Our weather invites outside activity, yet almost half of Monterey County residents don’t get enough exercise. Collaborating with health care providers and clinics to refer patients to a utilize open spaces for natural movement is a meaningful way to improve health outcomes.”

– Tiffany DiTullio, Executive Director Blue Zones Project Monterey County

“I enjoyed when I got to walk alone and hear the sound the birds were making, the sound of the wind through the leaves in the trees and plants. The beautiful view I could enjoy in silence.”

– Jasmin, Big Sur Land Trust preserve visitor

“I enjoy walking outside and admiring nature, the parks, the flowers. Walking is crucial for managing type 2 diabetes as it helps lower my blood sugar levels and boosts my energy throughout the day.”

– Maria E. Vargas, 75 years, Gonzales resident

“Here are two reasons why I like the park. One, you can get fresh air and exercise. Two, you can take nature walks and it’s free!”

– Ella C. 12 years old, Salinas Resident

“As a physician, I’m very concerned with the increased number of children with pre-diabetes, obesity, depression, anxiety and addiction to social media. Research suggests that these children can benefit significantly from outdoor education programs to combat health problems. This is even more important for my patients, farmworker families in east Salinas, who have decreased access to the outdoors.”

– Dr. Pedro Moreno, Family Physician

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